Capacity Building, Reimagined: Practical Approaches for the Current Moment

When: 
Thursday, May 21, 2026 -
2:00pm to 5:00pm EDT
Where: 
Philanthropy New York; 320 East 43rd Street; NYC 10017
Members of PNY & Partner Orgs: 
$0.00
Non-Members: 
$150.00
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What does it really mean to build capacity right now — and how can funders do it in ways that actually strengthen community resilience for the long haul? As the landscape shifts, practitioners are expanding and evolving their approaches to this question.

In this session, practitioners will explore the evolving definition of capacity building and the many ways funders can show up — from embedding support into grantmaking structures to one-on-one technical assistance to investing in community leadership over the long term. Through a panel presentation and facilitated breakout discussions, participants will examine practical, right-sized approaches that meet organizations where they are and build lasting power.

What will I learn?

  • The range of approaches funders can take, from embedding capacity-building roles within teams, to direct grants, to grantmaking that supports service providers
  • How to center community voice and build authentic relationships with impacted communities beyond the transactional grantmaking cycle
  • How to right-size capacity-building efforts based on your grantmaking budget
  • The long-term impact of sustained investment in community leaders

Speakers and Facilitators

Who should attend?

All funders in grantmaking roles, as well as those in programmatic strategy roles. What to Expect: A panel presentation followed by small-group breakout discussions — designed for peer exchange, reflection, and practical takeaways you can apply to your work.

Registration

1:45 PM-2:00 PM Check-in
2:00 PM-5:00 PM Program

Registration is required by May 20th.

Members:  To register yourself and/or a colleague at your organization, please log in and click the Register Now link above (no fee).

Non-Member Funders:  Create an account or log in above and click the Register Now link ($150 fee).

Please email register@philanthropynewyork.org with any questions.