Understanding Extreme Wealth Today

Abstract green and gold wave pattern, textured layers creating a dynamic, flowing design.

đź“· credit: StockCake The following was originally published in Mike Gast’s Organize the Rich Substack in a post entitled “Who are the wealthy in the US today?”. Mike is a longtime friend and colleague of our founder Jason Franklin since their organizing time together in Resource Generation in the early 2000s through to today. I […]

Protecting Immigrant Communities in 2025: A Call for Philanthropic Action

Protest signs advocating for immigrant rights with festive lights in the background.

đź“· credit: Rawpixel On November 6, the United States of America woke up to face a stark new reality and an uncertain future. We know that this uncertainty and fear is impacting certain communities disproportionately as people worry about their rights disappearing – communities of color, LGBTQ+ people, immigrants, and women, to name a few.  […]

After the Votes Are Counted: Strategic Insights for Democracy Funders

Peaceful protest with signs in front of the U.S. Capitol building advocating for democracy and rights.

đź“· credit: Ted Eytan / Flickr Despite record-setting fundraising and massive GOTV efforts during the 2024 election, progressive losses across the board present advocates with daunting political challenges over the next four years. The election resulted in losses of the Presidency and Senate and failed to flip the House, leaving a federal landscape increasingly hostile […]

Welcome Sonja Hansen: Our Newest Communications Fellow!

Smiling woman in a white shirt standing by a body of water.

We’re delighted to announce that Sonja Hansen has joined Ktisis Capital as our newest Communications Fellow! As part of our fellowship program designed to support emerging leaders in philanthropy and social justice, Sonja will play a vital role in advancing our mission through strategic communications and storytelling. A Stanford University graduate with a B.S. in […]

Social Justice Donors vs. Mainstream Wealthy Donors: A Comparative Analysis

Protest sign reading Speak Up, Stand Up, Show Up For Justice with surrounding greenery and soft background.

đź“· credit: Johnson Center for Philanthropy Reposted from the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy. In the diverse landscape of philanthropy, a groundbreaking report from Ktisis Capital has illuminated stark differences between social justice donors (SJ donors) and the general population of wealthy donors. This first-of-its-kind comparative analysis offers valuable insights into the unique characteristics, […]

Standing Firm in Our Commitment to Justice: A Message from Ktisis Capital

Close-up of American flag fabric with white stars on blue field, highlighting texture and colors.

đź“· credit: Luke Michael via Unsplash In moments that shake our collective foundation, we at Ktisis stand firmly with those working toward a more just and equitable world. This week, many in our communities are processing complex emotions, concerns, and questions about the path forward. We hear you, we see you, and we remain steadfast […]

Immigration Funding Through a Justice Lens: Recommendations for Philanthropy

Graffiti on a wall reading No One Is Illegal with a star symbol, promoting social justice and equality.

đź“· credit: Miko Guziuk via Unsplash The scope of immigration’s impact has consistently shaped the very fabric of American society. As of 2022, 14% of the U.S. population – approximately 46.2 million individuals – was born abroad (Migration Policy Institute, 2024). The demographic reality of immigration has transformed communities, local economies, and social structures across the […]

Moving Beyond Listening: Shifting Grantmaking Practices to Center Proximate Voices

People at an outdoor event in floral and evening attire facing a stage, with string lights and greenery.

đź“· credit: Hannah Busing via Unsplash Last week, we had the privilege of presenting at the Council of Michigan Foundations’ Annual Conference. Our session, titled “Moving Beyond Listening: Shifting Grantmaking Practices to Center Proximate Voices” and designed and facilitated by Alison Upton LĂłpez, Michael Pratt, and Ricky Benavidez, was a powerful exploration of how philanthropy […]

Systemic Change in the Fight for Democracy

Person casting vote in ballot box at polling station during election day.

đź“· credit: Unseen Histories via Unsplash As we near the November election, many donors are feeling anxious about the role they play in the fight for the future of our democracy. The specters of white nationalism and rising global fascism have progressive donors asking, “How can I direct my investments to best protect and strengthen […]

Building Connections Beyond Screens: The Power of In-Person Retreats

A group of people standing together in front of a green hedge, smiling for the camera.

In today’s era of remote work, where our interactions are often limited to virtual meetings and digital communications, Ktisis Capital prioritizes community and people through our three in-person retreats each year. These gatherings are more than just an opportunity to meet face-to-face; they are essential for building a sense of belonging and mutual support among […]