Welcome to the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy.
At the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy, we work with nonprofit professionals like you to do something extraordinary: Grow the human capacity to love.
We achieve this using the latest insights from philanthropic psychology—or Phil Psych® - a scientific approach to fundraising that focuses on the donor's identity, emotions, and wellbeing.
Go Beyond Donor-Centric: Grow Love
You already care about your donors.
You use the right pronouns.
You celebrate their impact, not just your organization's achievements
You may even track satisfaction, commitment, and trust - key metrics of a strong supporter relationship.
But what if there’s more?
What if your communication could transform how donors see themselves and deepen their connection to your mission? What if fundraising became a tool to grow their sense of purpose and identity?
Rethinking Fundraising: From Transactions to Transformations
Too often, fundraising is reduced to money. Boards track dollars, ROI, and response rates - but overlook the heart of philanthropy: love.
At the Institute, we believe the true role of fundraising is to steward that love - helping people express and expand their care for others. Through the lens of philanthropic psychology, fundraising becomes more than a financial transaction. It becomes a deeply human experience - for donors and beneficiaries alike.
What Makes Phil Psych® Different?
Unlike behavioural economics - which seeks to nudge or manipulate behaviour - philanthropic psychology starts and ends with the individual.
We don’t ask: “How do we get donors to act?”
We ask: “Who is this person, and how can we help them love more fully?”
By focusing on identity, meaning, and emotional wellbeing, Phil Psych® creates fundraising experiences that feel authentic, warm, and deeply rewarding.
Real Impact: Philanthropic Psychology Can Double Giving
Our approach doesn't just feel good - it works. Fundraising informed by Phil Psych® has been shown to double donor giving, while also enhancing donor satisfaction and loyalty.
But the financial results are only part of the story. Our mission is to nurture love - and by doing so, help create a world where philanthropy is both more impactful and more sustainable.
Join the Movement
Are you ready to change the way you fundraise - forever? Join a select group of nonprofit professionals who are leading the charge toward a more meaningful, donor-cantered, and sustainable future for philanthropy.
Get in touch today and discover how philanthropic psychology can transform your giving.
