Independent Sector is a national membership organization that unites a diverse community of changemakers, including nonprofits, foundations, and corporations, with the mission to strengthen civil society and ensure that all individuals in the United States thrive. Established in 1980 through the merger of the National Council of Philanthropy and the Coalition of National Voluntary Organizations, Independent Sector serves as a vital meeting ground, fostering a sense of belonging, catalyzing action, and providing policy leadership across the charitable sector.
Key Strategic Focus
Independent Sector's strategic objectives encompass:
- Sector Impact: Creating and disseminating knowledge and research to assess and enhance the impact of the nonprofit sector, thereby promoting health and equity within communities.
- Community Building: Cultivating a sense of belonging among social sector changemakers to foster trust, bridge divides, and create a healthy, racially just society.
- Public Policy: Advocating for public policies that strengthen nonprofits, foundations, and diverse communities nationwide, serving as a unified voice on pressing legislative and economic issues affecting the sector.
Financials and Funding
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Independent Sector's financial information is publicly accessible. In 2014, the organization reported revenues of $8,703,247 and expenses totaling $8,774,204. The endowment for that year was $4,521,437. More recent financial data is available through their annual reports and IRS Form 990 filings.
Leadership Team
Dr. Akilah Watkins assumed the role of President and CEO in January 2023. The organization has a history of distinguished board chairs, including co-founder John W. Gardner (1980–1983) and, more recently, Fred Blackwell (2021–present).
Competitor Profile
While Independent Sector operates uniquely as a coalition within the nonprofit sector, similar organizations include:
- Council on Foundations: A nonprofit leadership association of grantmaking foundations and corporations.
- Alliance for Strong Families and Communities: A national organization dedicated to achieving a healthy and equitable society.
- Ceres: A nonprofit organization advocating for sustainability leadership.
These organizations share a commitment to strengthening civil society and supporting philanthropic endeavors.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Independent Sector collaborates with various entities to advance its mission. Notably, the organization hosts the annual Upswell Summit, bringing together changemakers to address pressing societal issues. Additionally, the Bridging Fellows Program provides leaders in cities like Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Dallas opportunities to enhance their leadership capacities and foster equitable communities.
Operational Insights
Independent Sector's distinct competitive advantage lies in its ability to convene a diverse array of stakeholders from the nonprofit, philanthropic, and corporate sectors. This unique position enables the organization to effectively advocate for policies that benefit the entire charitable sector and to foster collaborations that drive systemic change.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Independent Sector aims to:
- Expand Membership: Broaden its membership base to include a more diverse range of organizations and individuals committed to strengthening civil society.
- Enhance Research Initiatives: Develop and disseminate research that informs best practices and policy decisions within the nonprofit sector.
- Strengthen Advocacy Efforts: Amplify its voice in public policy to ensure that the interests of the charitable sector are effectively represented at all levels of government.
By leveraging its established strengths and strategic partnerships, Independent Sector is well-positioned to continue its leadership role in fostering a healthy and equitable society.
Contact Information
- Website: independentsector.org
- LinkedIn: Independent Sector
For further inquiries, please visit the official website.
