A common theme on Exponent’s Catalytic Philanthropy Podcast is leanly staffed foundations’ unique ability to catalyze systems change in ways other entities cannot. Lean foundations can assume more risk, focus on specific issues, and concentrate on distinct locations. Their capacity to convene, advocate, and fund grassroots movements gives them a dynamic edge.

We often think of business and government as the major players in job creation and economic development. Yet, here too, lean foundations can play essential roles. In a 3-part podcast series featuring the Earl & Kathryn Congdon Family Foundation, we explore how a foundation with just two staff leveraged its power and position to revitalize the local economy in ways the business community and government could not.

Episode 1: Crafting a Collective Vision

For many years, High Point, North Carolina was known as the Furniture Capital of the World. During the acceleration of globalization in the 1990s, many companies moved operations from the area to overseas. Like in many cities across the U.S., jobs disappeared, economic hardship took hold, and the High Point region lost much of its vitality.

In 2015, leaders from across the public and private sectors came together to craft a common vision to grow small businesses, create jobs, and nurture a dynamic and promising future. In the first episode of this 3-part series, Earl & Kathryn Congdon Family Foundation staff Megan Oglesby and Joe Blosser share the diverse components of the community’s vision for economic revitalization.

Read the full article about lean foundations by Andy Carroll at Exponent Philanthropy.