Trust-Based Philanthropy in Action
We partner with regrantors and funders who understand that the most effective social change happens when we trust communities to lead their own transformation. Our approach centers authentic relationships, shared power, and culturally responsive frameworks that honor the wisdom of those closest to the challenges.
Case Study: ARISE Illinois
Activating Relationships In Illinois for Systemic Equity
Project Overview: Incite Network provided strategic project direction for the $3.7 million CDC-funded ARISE initiative, supporting 18 coalitions and organizations across Illinois to address COVID-19 health inequities and build long-term community resilience.
Our Role: Working under the leadership of Somava Saha and in partnership with WE in the World, Heluna Health, and the Illinois Department of Public Health, we provided comprehensive support including programmatic reporting, technical assistance, workflow coordination, and language justice integration.
Trust-Based Approach: ARISE embodied core trust-based philanthropy principles by investing in community-led organizations, providing flexible funding, and centering the expertise of those most impacted by health inequities.
Community-Centered Impact
ARISE supported "trusted but non-traditional" organizations including Divine Nine sororities and fraternities, artists-activists, faith communities, and community organizers working alongside local health departments to address root causes of health inequity.
Our Trust-Based Philanthropy Framework
Relationship-Centered Approach
We prioritize building authentic partnerships with community organizations, understanding that trust develops through consistent engagement and shared decision-making processes.
Cultural Responsiveness
Our language justice efforts and culturally grounded frameworks ensure that diverse communities can participate fully in their own leadership and decision-making.
Streamlined Operations
We reduce administrative burden through simplified reporting processes and focus resources on technical assistance that builds community capacity rather than compliance.
Power-Sharing Structures
Our project management approach centers community voices in strategy development, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring local expertise drives solutions.
Systemic Change Focus
We support initiatives that address root causes rather than symptoms, building long-term community resilience and sustainability.
Responsive Learning
Our evaluation frameworks capture both quantitative outcomes and qualitative learning, adapting strategies based on community feedback and emerging needs.
Why Partner with Incite Network?
Proven Track Record
Over the past decade, we've secured over $500 million for diverse communities through strategic partnerships with national movements and gamechanging nonprofits. Our experience managing federal funds and working across 49 states demonstrates our capacity to handle complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Cultural Competency
We bring deep understanding of culturally grounded frameworks and language justice principles, ensuring that regrantmaking processes honor the full humanity and expertise of community partners.
Systems Thinking
Our approach addresses both immediate needs and long-term systemic change, helping regrantors build sustainable impact that transforms communities rather than simply providing temporary relief.
Service Areas
- Project Direction & Management
- Programmatic Reporting & Compliance
- Technical Assistance & Capacity Building
- Coalition Development & Support
- Language Justice Integration
- Evaluation & Learning Frameworks
- Strategic Planning & Implementation
- Community Engagement & Facilitation
Ready to Transform Grantmaking?
Let's discuss how we can support your organization in implementing trust-based philanthropy principles that center community wisdom and drive lasting change.
Partner with Us
Ready to implement trust-based philanthropy that centers community leadership and drives systemic change? Let's explore how we can support your regrantmaking goals with culturally grounded frameworks that honor the expertise of those closest to the challenges.
Start the Conversation