Giving Circles

Giving circles are a dynamic and rapidly expanding form of participatory philanthropy where individuals pool financial resources and collectively decide which nonprofits or community projects to support. They offer donors the chance to give more impactfully together than they might alone, often building community knowledge, shared decision-making, and deeper engagement with causes they care about. Between 2017 and 2023, nearly 4,000 collective giving groups in the U.S. engaged more than 370,000 members and contributed over $3.1 billion to charitable causes, indicating strong growth in both participation and overall philanthropic impact. 

Giving circles are one of the fastest growing areas of philanthropy. It is important to identify the giving circles operating in your region, as they may play a significant role in your grantseeking efforts, particularly if you are a startup or are launching a new project. Members of a giving circle are often open to investing where others will not.

Giving circles are one of the fastest-growing areas of philanthropy. Their collective model has expanded significantly in recent years and they play an increasingly strategic role for nonprofits (especially startups and organizations launching new initiatives) because members often invest in emerging needs before larger funders take notice. 

According to a 2017 study, the average donation amount of a giving circle participant in the U.S was just over $1,300, with the median donation level being $400. The amount of individual donations may be somewhat small, but an accumulated amount of $27.7 million was granted. Giving circles generally have a set amount to disperse each year, and typically provide grants within a defined range.

Giving circles frequently prioritize general operating support and capacity building for mission-aligned organizations. Many also focus on specific issue areas such as social justice, education, or community development. The unrestricted assistance that giving circle’s provide strengthens organizational resilience. 

For nonprofits new to grantseeking, applying to a local or regional giving circle can be a smart entry point. These applications tend to be simpler, turn around more quickly, and help you show local backing, which strengthens future proposals to larger funders.

Visit the Charitable Giving database (U.S., Canada, or International) and use the “Giving Circle” filter under Types of Grantmakers to identify active circles that align with your mission and geography. 

Always ask your regional community foundation if they house a giving circle. Many do, and they often provide administrative support or host circles themselves. 

When applying to or engaging with a giving circle, you may be invited to present or answer questions in person. These circles are educational and collaborative by design, so a clear, informative presentation strengthens both your relationship and likelihood of support. 

Know your audience! Of the 706 circles responding to a 2017 survey, 640 were led by women. Overall, 76% indicated that women made up more than half of their members.

Although giving circle applications are usually simpler than larger foundations’, they still vary widely. Understanding what each circle values (and how they assess proposals) will help you tailor your request and stand out. 

Talk with organizations that have previously received funding from your target giving circle. Reviewing past requests, especially those with visual storytelling or strong local engagement, can help you prepare a stronger submission. 

Reporting requirements for most giving circles are generally straightforward, emphasizing transparency and impact without heavy administrative burden.

If possible, offer to present the results of their support in person. Sharing beneficiary voices or inviting someone directly impacted to speak can personalize outcomes and deepen the relationship.