Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement

PACE is a philanthropic laboratory for funders seeking to maximize their impact on democracy and civic life in America.

OUR MISSION

To equip and mobilize funders to strengthen American democracy by fostering vibrant civic participation. PACE members pursue this mission by learning with purpose, collaborating across differences, and experimenting boldly to advance freedom, fairness, and belonging for all.

OUR VISION

We strive for a future where all Americans feel connected, take responsibility for protecting and regenerating democracy, and contribute to the health of our country and the vitality of our communities.

Read the 2025 End of Year Report

In 2025, PACE cemented its role as a trusted thought leader for civic philanthropy. We grew our community, launched new initiatives, and deepened our commitment to activating funders for democracy renewal. As we look ahead to 2026-2030, we’re mobilizing a broad coalition to reinvigorate Americans’ commitment to one another and to a shared democratic future.

How We Strengthen Democracy

Four interconnected priorities guide our work:

Increase Member Engagement

Deliver transformational experiences that foster deep learning and collaboration across our community

Build Coalitions for Action

Unite funders across ideological, geographic, and sectoral differences to take action together

Strengthen the Civic Field

Generate insights, practical tools, and evidence for strategic investment

Shape a Unifying Civic Narrative

Develop narrative resources and amplify stories that rekindle Americans' patriotism and commitment to democratic norms

Our Work in Action

Action Coalitions

Collective platforms where funders pool resources and align strategies around democracy challenges.

Civic Philanthropy Incubator
Future Fellows

Research & Learning

Evidence-based insights and practical resources to guide philanthropy’s role in civic renewal.

Civic Language Perceptions Project
Democracy Primer

Member Programs

Spaces for funders to learn, experiment, and collaborate with peers.

Peer Learning Labs
Member Meetings & Convenings

Latest News from PACE

"A Rapidly Growing Network for Democracy Funders"

From Inside Philanthropy

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Podcast Recap: Is Democracy Larger than Politics in Philanthropy?

Amy McIsaac shares our major learnings and still-lingering questions after a year of promoting a democracy larger than politics in 2024.

Listen to the Episode on iTunes

Announcing an Evolution in Leadership at PACE

Kristen Cambell's role with PACE is evolving.

Learn More

"Nonprofit Rights Are Under Attack. Here’s a 7-Part Playbook to Fight Back."

From Chronicle of Philanthropy

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I'm truly inspired by your approach, perspective, and example, not just to the funding community but to all of the players that occupy this critical work. In my experience, you are unique-- I can see why the list of PACE collaborators is so robust.