About Us
- Home
- About Us
What is VFN?
In 2020, a small group of philanthropic leaders with decades of funding experience in Virginia founded the Virginia Funders Network (VFN) to harness the power of collaboration to create a lasting impact in the philanthropic sector and the communities it serves. Now, VFN is represented by over 130 Members, making it the largest community of philanthropic funders and partners investing in the Commonwealth. The first-of-its-kind, VFN is the only organization in Virginia for grantmaking peers to connect with and learn from each other and enhance their approaches to philanthropy at this scale.
VFN’s strength and effectiveness come directly from our membership’s diverse and valued insights, wisdom, perspectives, and dedication. We are dedicated to working together to help ensure that all who call Virginia home, regardless of race, gender, age, ability or geography, have the resources they need to thrive.
To learn more about VFN’s origin, visit our History page.
Who is Part of VFN?
Funders choose to become VFN Members because they value us as a resource for regional and statewide connections and for our ability to bring data and information they can use to enhance their grantmaking impact. Collectively, we leverage the power of collaboration for philanthropy to better address the needs of Virginia communities.
Our Member organizations include all types of grantmaking organizations investing in Virginia, including private, independent, and community foundations; corporate giving programs; donor-advised funds; governmental and quasi-governmental grantmakers; United Ways, giving circles, and other grantmaking public charities. They also include Partner organizations with expertise and knowledge to support the funding community. Philanthropy is strengthened by both Member and Partner engagement.
While our membership is diverse, we share a vision of a Commonwealth where all Virginians can thrive. For a list of Members, visit the Member Listing. For a list of Partners, visit the Partner Listing.
How Does VFN Work?
VFN enhances the effectiveness of our membership’s work through collaboration, learning, and embracing the uniqueness and experiences of each VFN Member. Our programs are designed to ensure grantmakers understand where needs exist, what is needed to resolve them, and where investments can result in the greatest impact. We host dozens of networking events across the Commonwealth, including our signature Annual Conference and Regional Funders Gatherings, where Members learn from each other and take strategies home to serve their communities better. VFN also holds ongoing learning series, supports affinity groups like Program Officers, and releases special publications to keep funders abreast of the most pertinent challenges facing Virginians.
OUR IMPACT
Each year, VFN’s Year In Review highlights the milestones that define VFN’s membership, work and mission in action and celebrates the passion and purpose that define our work. We invite you to explore the highlights.
