Foundations of Influence: Intervention Pathways of Foundation Influence on City Governance and Policy

Abstract

Philanthropic foundations have assumed prominent roles in revitalizing distressed U.S. cities raising questions about their ongoing effects on governance and policy, institutions, access to decision-making, and outcomes. This exploratory, qualitative study examines foundation interventions in eight cities where foundations account for a substantial share of community and economic development financing. Foundations have significantly altered interventions which, when combined with their substantial giving and government austerity, significantly increases their potential for enduring influence on city governance and policymaking and fosters the growth of nonprofit governance in these cities.