Conceptualizing responsible exits in conservation philanthropy

Abstract

Conservation philanthropy has grown significantly in the past decade. As the number of philanthropic-supported conservation initiatives increases, so too will the frequency of exits-the ending of funding relationships. A trend toward "strategic philanthropy," where foundations fund time-limited grants, is already contributing to near-constant exits. We draw attention to exits as a critical and ubiquitous-yet understudied-part of conservation grantmaking processes that can have tremendous impacts on the people and places foundations invest in. This paper begins to address this research gap with the first empirical study of exit processes in the context of ocean conservation philanthropy. We draw on an analysis of interviews and a knowledge co-production workshop with donors representing 36 foundations investing in ocean conservation globally to: (1) develop a conceptual framework that broadens and clarifies definitions of exits and provides a common language to characterize exits along varied dimensions, and (2) derive best practices for exiting responsibly. This paper provides timely guidance for environmental philanthropy broadly, including the need to think about exits early and often as an integral part of the grantmaking strategy. Responsible giving must include responsible exits.

Conservation philanthropy: Growing the field of research and practice

“…Finally, two of the papers in the collection draw on the experiences and practical knowledge of funders and practitioners to derive applied best practices for grant‐making in the context of donor exits (Le Cornu et al, 2023) and collaborative conservation (Sanderson et al, 2023). Le Cornu et al (2023) address a gap in research on exits—that is, the ending of funding relationships—by developing a conceptual framework of exit types and best practices for conducting responsible exits.…”

“…Finally, two of the papers in the collection draw on the experiences and practical knowledge of funders and practitioners to derive applied best practices for grant‐making in the context of donor exits (Le Cornu et al, 2023) and collaborative conservation (Sanderson et al, 2023). Le Cornu et al (2023) address a gap in research on exits—that is, the ending of funding relationships—by developing a conceptual framework of exit types and best practices for conducting responsible exits. In the context of unprecedented growth in conservation philanthropy, they argue that “now is the time to think seriously not only about the beginning of new funding relationships, initiatives, and partnerships—but also their end” (Le Cornu et al, 2023, p. 2).…”

“…Le Cornu et al (2023) address a gap in research on exits—that is, the ending of funding relationships—by developing a conceptual framework of exit types and best practices for conducting responsible exits. In the context of unprecedented growth in conservation philanthropy, they argue that “now is the time to think seriously not only about the beginning of new funding relationships, initiatives, and partnerships—but also their end” (Le Cornu et al, 2023, p. 2). They provide a roadmap for funders interested in doing so.…”

Who’s setting the agenda? Philanthropic donor influence in marine conservation

“…This influence may even have extended beyond Fiji and Palau through Packard's investments in the regional Locally-Managed Marine Area (LMMA) Network, which played a major role in sharing many concepts and the capacity for empowering communities. However, in light of Packard's exits from Fiji and Palau in 2020, the long-term durability of these priorities and activities will depend in part on whether and how governments and NGOs take up and continue conservation agendas supported initially by private philanthropy (Le Cornu et al 2023).…”

More than funders: The roles of philanthropic foundations in marine conservation governance

“…Gilson & Garrick (2021, p. 190) argue that, while funding can enable collective action, “foundations should explicitly consider and address legacies of exclusion for marginalized actors and groups.” While recognizing the crucial role of Packard in bringing conservation actors together, the recent closure of the Western Pacific Program raises questions about the continued support and efficacy of coordination efforts, like FLMMA, as well as the impact of exits on established grantee networks (Le Cornu et al, in review).…”