Daylight is a global hub for philanthropic learning, practice, and research. It is home to the flagship program, the Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) Certificate Program for philanthropic and wealth advisors. Daylight Your learning partner for growth and impact. Philanthropic Advising Learning Journey - find your learning path The Impact Philanthropy Advisor certification program is designed exclusively for wealth and philanthropic advisors, to help you meet this extraordinary opportunity to grow your business, client relationships and impact. Learn More Brian Balduzzi, Private Client Attorney IPA has assisted me not only with understanding the tools and strategies for charitable giving but how to assist clients with their other advisors in developing plans for impact. The opportunity to engage with others around the world who are deeply knowledgeable and passionate about being a more thoughtful and impactful planner is an excellent resource for me to strengthen my network and learn from my colleagues. Certificates Certificate programs are tailored for busy and on-the-go advisors who require flexible learning options. They're the perfect way to meet your targeted learning needs. Learn More Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate Learn more. Impact Investing Certificate Learn more. Collaborative Philanthropy Certificate Learn more. Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners Certificate Learn more. Philanthropic Planning with Women Certificate Learn more. Gift Planning Certificate Learn more. Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate Learn more. Philanthropic Planning with Global Families Certificate Coming soon. Written by advisors for advisors, DAFopedia draws on the collective intelligence of leaders from the wealth advisory and philanthropic sectors to help you navigate the evolving landscape of DAF giving and beyond. Learn More Learn from industry practitioners with our Illuminate Philanthropy podcast. Listen Now

Where Do Philanthropy Advisors Come From? Papa, Where Do Philanthropy Advisors Come From? By Tony Macklin Well, son, sometimes a donor couple loves a cause very much. So much they want to put a lot of money into it… OK, maybe a child hasn’t asked you that question. But the topic comes up in the Daylight team’s conversations with philanthropy professionals. Our answer has been something like “from more than a dozen allied professions like nonprofit management, grantmaking, gift planning, and financial services.” It turns out philanthropy advisors’ backgrounds are far more diverse. During a packed session about philanthropic services at the 2023 DAF Giving Summit , we asked attendees to share their previous three jobs or roles. Forty two percent of them came from the types of philanthropy jobs you might expect: But the larger percentage listed backgrounds as varied as cowboy, bartender, ecological designer, letter carrier, marketing coordinator, social worker, and domestic violence attorney: Wildly mixed backgrounds can be a strength in the field of philanthropic advising. The diverse lived experiences will benefit clients and advisors working collaboratively. And different professions bring new angles to identifying and solving problems, involving people in decision-making, structuring client services, and more. The mix also presents challenges. The primary one, often reported by employers, is an advisor’s limited experience with the broad range of philanthropic motivations, resources, vehicles, strategies, and social impact tools clients use. To be sure, some advisors make a living only knowing about grantmaking to charities or only working in an issue such as education. But most private sector employers, and an increasing number of foundations, need generalists who can comfortably navigate multiple options, often without judging the client’s final choices. What’s Next? Over the past 18 months, Daylight team members have been developing a standardized set of competencies for philanthropic advisors, mapping where professional development programs meet those competencies, and asking advisors where they rank themselves on a scale from novice to expert. And, no surprise, we have ideas for filling gaps with new programming and research. Stay tuned for more information about our competency mapping and new programming in April! REN DAF Giving Summit 2023 ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.

Daylight is a global hub for philanthropic learning, practice, and research. It is home to the flagship program, the Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) Certificate Program for philanthropic and wealth advisors. Daylight Partners Amidst a historic $124 trillion intergenerational transfer of wealth, clients are turning to advisors for more than investments and tax planning, and philanthropy’s tools, considerations and goals have become more complex. It’s a transformative era for wealth and philanthropy, requiring new competencies and cultural dexterity to thrive. Daylight’s learning platform and network are designed exclusively for wealth and philanthropic advisors, to help you meet this extraordinary opportunity to grow your business, client relationships and impact. Certificate programs are tailored for busy and on-the-go advisors who require flexible learning options. They're the perfect way to meet your targeted learning needs and explore technical or market segment-specific topics. Clients who receive charitable planning are more loyal and likely to recommend their advisors. Advisors who offer charitable planning Net Promoter Score: 67 Advisors who don't offer charitable planning Net Promoter Score: 49 https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/content/dam/fc-public/docs/insights/on-the-leading-edge-report.pdf 6x Assets Firms that offer charitable planning had 6x the median assets of those that do not. 3x Organic Growth Firms that offer charitable planning had 3x the median organic growth of those that do not. 1.3x New Money Firms that offer charitable planning had 1.3x the median new money per investor of those that do not. https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/content/dam/fc-public/docs/insights/on-the-leading-edge-report.pdf CERTIFICATE OFFERINGS Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate The Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate, created in partnership with ideas42 , offers advisors a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of how behavioral science and philanthropic advising intersect. You will explore the psychological factors influencing donor behavior, donor barriers, decision-making processes, and the impact of social and family dynamics on philanthropic giving. By the end of the program, you will gain a solid grounding in behavioral principles and develop actionable strategies that can be implemented to enhance client and donor relationships and drive meaningful change in the philanthropic landscape. Impact Investing Certificate Take your advisory practice to the next level with our Impact Investing Certificate. This certificate equips you with cutting-edge knowledge and practical tools to integrate impact investments into client portfolios, aligning financial goals with values such as sustainability, social equity, and ethical governance. With the demand for responsible investing rising, this credential positions you as a trusted expert in a growing market, empowering you to build deeper client relationships and differentiate your practice. Invest in your future—and the planet's—by becoming a leader in impact investing. Collaborative Philanthropy Certificate Donors and foundations increasingly want to work alongside other donors. They want to leverage their peers’ knowledge, resources, and lists of effective nonprofits, movements, and impact investments. But how will they navigate the hundreds of choices available? As an advisor, you have a unique opportunity to help clients and donors increase their impact and satisfaction through the power of collective and collaborative giving. In this certificate, you’ll dive into global trends and cutting-edge research, learn to compare and assess options for clients, and engage with real-world case studies highlighting how donors are using collaborative funds, giving and investing circles, women’s funds, and similar tools. Created in partnership with Philanthropy Together , the Collaborative Philanthropy Certificate will provide you with actionable strategies to integrate the power of collective and collaborative giving practices into your client offerings. Philanthropic Planning with Women Today, women control over $10 trillion, a third of US household financial assets. By 2030, they will control $34 trillion in financial assets as part of the Great Wealth Transfer. As women become more active in financial decision-making, understanding their goals and investment preferences is a business imperative. As clients, women are more likely to donate to charities, want to involve their families in philanthropy, and invest in social and environmental impact goals. In this certificate, you’ll gain insights into the differentiated needs, preferences, and behaviors of women in managing their finances and how those decisions are reflected in their philanthropy and social impact goals. Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners More than 99% of U.S. companies are privately owned. Their founders and owners contribute more money and time than non-entrepreneurs. They’re more likely to consider themselves philanthropists, to be hands-on in their philanthropy, and to leave legacy gifts. Additionally, approximately 69% of these business owners intend to incorporate charitable giving into their plans for exiting their businesses. In this certificate, you’ll learn about demographic trends in wealth building through business ownership and the philanthropic planning implications of various business structures and assets. You’ll gain insights into frameworks for managing companies’ philanthropy and social impact programs. You’ll also learn about your role in helping business owners find their purpose and meet philanthropic planning goals before, during, and after exits from their businesses. Gift Planning Certificate With more than $105 trillion passing to the next generation and $18 trillion to charities, now is the time for advisors to deepen their expertise in gift planning to effectively support their clients' philanthropic plans. The Gift Planning Certificate equips advisors with the knowledge and tools to help clients make meaningful, tax-efficient gifts that reflect their values and create lasting legacies. This certificate program explores the fundamentals of gift planning, the giving vehicles every advisor should know about, and forward-thinking strategies for donating noncash assets. It also examines emerging trends in philanthropy and how advisors can leverage them to create positive outcomes for both clients and their communities. The curriculum blends technical expertise with cultural and values-driven insights, preparing advisors to navigate complex planning conversations and solutions for clients and the organizations they care about. Introduction to Philanthropic Planning The Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate offers a quick, practical entry for professional advisors and philanthropic leaders who are increasingly called upon to help clients or donors give effectively. Wealthy clients now expect guidance beyond technical solutions, and younger generations are seeking clarity around purpose and impact while using tools beyond tax-deductible gifts. Advisors willing to facilitate conversations about modern philanthropy will have the edge in client attraction and retention during the historic transfer of wealth. 84% of individual investors say they're interested in using their investing dollars to affect social and environmental change. Source: Morgan Stanley's Sustainable Investing Report 79% of investors agree they would be much more loyal to a financial advisor who actively helps them invest in a way that also has positive impact on the world. Source: Nuveen's Sixth Annual Responsible Investing Survey CERTIFICATES OFFER FLEXIBLE ONLINE LEARNING Our online certificate programs provide you with the knowledge to confidently support the needs and expectations of your clients. They're designed to help you immediately leverage new skills, build stronger relationships, and showcase your expertise. Each certificate program includes four to six modules and can be completed online in eight to ten hours at your own pace. Continuing education credits are available for each program. Take advantage of the special pricing for the annual certificate subscription, which includes 12 months of learning, and consider bundling it with the Impact Philanthropy Advisor certification! Individual Certificates Annual Subscription Certificate Subscription + Impact Philanthropy Advisor Bundle Nonprofit & Solo Practitioner $700 $1,400 $3,000 (savings of $900) For Profit $800 $1,500 $3,500 (savings of $850) Flexible, online access 🟡 🟡 Interact with an online community of practitioners 🟡 🟡 Continuing education hours available 🟡 🟡 Be a part of the Impact Advisors Network ($300 value) 🟡 Deep dive into a specific topic or client segment; complete in 8 to 10 hours 🟡 🟡 Access all certificates (5 in 2025 and more in 2026; $4,800 value) 🟡 Showcase your expertise Certificate of Completion Certificate of Completion Daylight is an approved CE sponsor. Continuing education credits are available for all certificate programs. Still have questions? See our FAQs . Notify me when individual certificates launch. CERTIFICATE REGISTRATION First name Last name Email Code Phone Street Address City Region/State/Province Country Company Position/Role Daylight partner/member organization How did you hear about our certificates/IPA? Please share your friend's name so we may thank them! I agree to abide by Daylight's Guiding Principles. I understand all individual certificate and subscription purchases are final. I would like to receive other communications from Daylight. You can unsubscribe from these communications at any time. Select a certificate registration option: * Annual Subscription (Partner Rate) - $1300 Individual Certificate (Partner Rate) - $700 Individual Certificate options: (select one) Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate Impact Investing Certificate Collaborative Philanthropy Certificate Checkout Thank you! You will receive notification prior to certificates launching.

The Rise of the Philanthropic Advisor Entrepreneurs The Rise of the Philanthropic Advisor Entrepreneurs By Crystal Thompkins and Dien Yuen The philanthropic advising sector is entering a defining moment shaped by unprecedented wealth transfer, rising donor sophistication, the growth of donor-advised funds (DAFs), and the professionalization of impact-oriented advising. For entrepreneurial advisors, the opportunity is significant: demand is increasing, expectations are shifting, and new business models are emerging. Yet despite this momentum, the field lacks a clear picture of who these advisors are, what they do, and how their backgrounds inform their practice. This article presents data to fill those gaps and offers recommendations to strengthen this essential segment of the advising landscape. Who are Philanthropic Advisor Entrepreneurs? In 2024, Daylight conducted the first comprehensive study of philanthropic advisors, defined as practitioners who guide the who , what , why , and how of using resources for philanthropy and social impact. Of the 258 advisors surveyed, 30% (77) operate independent consulting practices. These entrepreneurs reflect a diverse and experienced cohort: 74% identify as women, 38% identify as BIPOC, 9% identify as LGBTQ+. 16% are between 30 and 39 years old, 25% are between 40 and 49, and 33% are between 50 and 59. 28% earn between $100,000 and $149,999 annually. Question: What is your current annual base salary or average annual gross consulting income? Category Percent Up to $99,999 21% $100,000 - $149,999 28% $150,000 - $199,999 11% $200,000 - $249,999 18% $250,000 - $299,999 12% $300,000+ 9% What Does Their Current Practice Look Like Entrepreneurial advisors are relatively early in their business lifecycle: 39% have operated for 1 to 4 years 26% for 5 to 9 years. Entrepreneurs most commonly reported providing services in defining purpose (77%), developing impact strategies for charitable vehicles (61%), and cultivating family capital (55%). They work across broad client groups, including individuals and families (79%), nonprofit organizations (71%), and private foundations (60%). For entrepreneurs working with individuals and families, 49% reported that more than half of their clients are builders of new wealth. 21% reported that more than half their clients were BIPOC. Question: Of your individual and family clients, what percentage are primarily builders of new wealth (as opposed to being inheritors of existing wealth)? Category Percent Less than half 36% More than half 49% I do not know 14% I prefer not to answer 1% Where Do They Build Their Skills? The study confirms what many in the field anecdotally understand: philanthropic advising is still primarily learned through experience rather than formal training. 55% cite ‘learning on the job’ as their top professional development method. Advisors self-identified as competent to proficient across core skill domains, including client resource identification, client purpose discovery, philanthropic plan, and strategy development. Question: Which have been most helpful to your learning as an advisor? (Please enter 1, 2, and 3 below to rank the first, second, and third most helpful.) Category First Second Third Formal education programs 13% 16% 18% Learning on the job 55% 19% 17% Mentor relationships (formal or informal) 13% 22% 12% Professional associations 9% 15% 21% Resources found on my own (books, blogs, forums, etc.) 8% 24% 27% Other 2% 3% 5% A Field in Formation Despite real progress, the field remains, in Daylight’s words, “a beautiful mess.” Several systemic barriers impede growth: Low visibility: The market lacks a shared narrative about what philanthropic advisors do, how they create value, and how their services are structured or priced. In addition, most donor clients do not know that philanthropic advisors are available to work with them. This ambiguity suppresses demand and slows market formation. Network access: Unlike adjacent fields such as wealth management, legal services, or consulting, philanthropic advising lacks strong, established pipelines for sourcing clients and building credibility. As a result, early-stage business development is slower, riskier, and disproportionately dependent on personal privilege and proximity to wealth. Advisors from underrepresented backgrounds face especially steep barriers, with limited access to the high-net-worth networks, institutional gatekeepers, and referral pathways that meaningfully shape client acquisition and long-term viability. Knowledge gaps: Even seasoned practitioners identify financial capital development as a weakness (34% of novices; 20% of advanced beginners). Funding and capital constraints: Most philanthropic advisors operate as small firms or solo practices, entities that rarely attract investment despite serving a rapidly expanding market. These small philanthropic advising businesses do not have access to growth capital, operating reserves, or R&D funding. This capital scarcity suppresses innovation and limits the ability of advisors—particularly emerging entrepreneur-advisors—to scale beyond a boutique or referral-dependent model. As a result, the field remains fragmented and fragile, with high-quality practitioners often unable to expand their impact because the business model is capital-poor and structurally at a disadvantage. Investing in Philanthropic Advisor Entrepreneurs for the Decades Ahead The rise of the philanthropic advisor entrepreneur signals a profound shift in how generosity is practiced, structured, and sustained in the United States. Entrepreneurial advisors are stepping into a rapidly expanding landscape shaped by historic wealth transfer, increasingly values-driven donors, and a proliferation of giving vehicles that require specialized guidance. While the field is rich with promise, these advisors still face gaps in visibility, standardization, and access to capital for business growth. Daylight’s research highlights the unique value these advisors bring: deep subject-matter expertise, experience, cultural dexterity, and the relational capacity required to guide donors through high-stakes decisions about purpose, assets, and impact. But their effectiveness—and the sector’s potential—will depend on intentional investment in the ecosystem. To fully realize this moment, the field must prioritize: Clearer and more equitable pathways into the profession. Expanded access to networks, referral channels, and client pipelines. Adoption of shared competency standards . Robust, ongoing professional development. Financial support that enables entrepreneurs to stabilize and scale their business. Doing so will not only strengthen individual advisory practices but also build the infrastructure needed for a mature, trusted, and high-impact philanthropic advising profession.

Turning Advisors Into Ambassadors Turning Advisors Into Ambassadors By Crystal Thompkins Director of Strategic Impact, Daylight A strong network of professional advisors can be invaluable to nonprofits. Professional advisors can serve as a resource for technical expertise and as connectors to others within their networks. Many nonprofits develop councils, create collateral, and host events to cultivate relationships with advisors in hopes of uncovering new opportunities. Much time and resources are spent engaging with advisors, yet often the effort does not yield commensurate results. Successful engagement with advisors, meaning engagement that creates a pipeline of new donor opportunities, doesn’t come solely from pleasant lunches and glossy marketing material. Here are 6 tips to help turn professional advisors into effective ambassadors: Develop an advisor engagement strategy. Advisor engagement should be strategic for and specific to your organization, not an obligation or copycat project from other organizations. Consider your organization’s goals, resources, and needs. How might professional advisors specifically (as opposed to other stakeholder groups) help reach those goals or meet a need given your available resources? What resources will you allocate and how? What are the measurable outcomes and success metrics for your advisor engagement? Events and activities should result from the strategy. They are not the strategy. Keep it simple. A sound strategy with supporting activities and clear goals does not need to be complicated. In fact, it shouldn’t be. The simpler the better. Limit activities to those that have a direct line to meeting your goals. Advisor engagement should not distract or subtract from other organizational priorities and resources. Recruit thoughtfully. With the strategy in mind, consider the profile of the advisors who will be most likely to help meet your goals and be thoughtful in selecting advisors to collaborate with. Look for criteria besides oldest/largest practice, most popular, or biggest donor. What networks are they connected to that you are not? Do they have an existing affinity to your organization? What role(s) have they demonstrated (asker, doer, host, connector, etc.)? Would you and your team enjoy working more closely with them? Keep in mind that an advisor may be a subject matter expert or a great supporter of your organization, but that may not translate into being a great ambassador. Be clear about the expectation. The most effective ambassadors know that’s their role. Let advisors know why your organization wants them to be a part of your success and how they can contribute. Instead of downplaying their commitment - “It’s only one meeting a quarter!” - be upfront about the importance of their participation in achieving your goals: “We’re relying on the connections made through our advisor networks to help meet our goals. We’ll need your active involvement to make that happen.” Give them something to do and the tools to do it. One of the best gifts you can give a busy person is instruction, so they don’t have to spend valuable time figuring out how to do something. Give your advisors tasks that are clear and time-sensitive, along with any tools that will help them. If you want them to make introductions, tell them who, how many, why, and by when. Make a digital toolkit with three bullet points on key initiatives, a 60-day calendar of events, a contact list, and an intro email template. Ask them to share it with at least X number of people a month. Let them tell you if that’s too many or too few. The specificity not only makes it easier for them to do, but it also makes it easier for you to track and report outcomes. Interact with purpose. Whether it’s a phone call, an email, or a meeting, every interaction with your advisor network should include: An acknowledgement of their contribution to your success. A reminder and/or status update of their tasks. A discussion of what hurdles or barriers they’re encountering. A report of the status of goals & celebrating accomplishments. A learning moment. Time for listening to their feedback or an offer to do so at a later date. Addressing these six things will affirm their importance to your organization while establishing a sense of collaboration and accountability. ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.

What trends are influencing gift planning? What trends are influencing gift planning? By Megan Bell and Dien Yuen At Daylight, we monitor trends in philanthropic advising and listen closely to advisors and gift planners working with clients and donors on the frontlines. One way we do this is by connecting some of the dots we see and asking advisors how it might apply in their day-to-day work and what's on their minds. In April, we asked attendees at the Northern California Planned Giving Council, "What trends in philanthropy or gift planning are on your minds?" We received over 60 responses written on notecards. They can be grouped into six general themes: giving styles and trends, gift planning, DAFs, demographics, AI/Tech, and concerns over the current political climate. Below are examples of what the participants shared. Do they resonate with you? We've shared our "Adapting to 8 Trends in Philanthropic Advising" presentation to over 600 non-profit and for-profit advisors in many small gatherings. The responses vary based on geography, advisor mix, client or donor sophistication level, etc. One consistent theme is that advisors are looking to broaden their definition of philanthropic planning. Adapting to 8 Trends in Philanthropic Advising Episode 1: Changing Client Base Episode 2: Evolving Definitions Episode 3: Evolving Vehicles Episode 4: Questioning Norms Episode 5: Growing Mistrust Episode 6: Wealth Planning Episode 7: AI for Good Episode 8: The Messy Marketplace

The Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate offers a quick, practical entry for professional advisors and philanthropic leaders who are increasingly called upon to help clients or donors give effectively. Certificates Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate The Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate offers a quick, practical entry for professional advisors and philanthropic leaders who are increasingly called upon to help clients or donors give effectively. Wealthy clients now expect guidance beyond technical solutions, and younger generations are seeking clarity around purpose and impact while using tools beyond tax-deductible gifts. Advisors willing to facilitate conversations about modern philanthropy will have the edge in client attraction and retention during the historic transfer of wealth. This Certificate is designed for wealth advisors, private client attorneys, CPAs, trust officers, family office staff, and nonprofit professionals seeking a fundamental baseline or refresh in philanthropic advising. It provides essential vocabulary, frameworks, and conversational techniques to clarify and support clients’ decisions about purpose, giving, and social impact. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Explain the knowledge and skills required for effective advising within the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model. Describe the nine components of modern philanthropic planning, including representative client deliverables. Explain the fundamentals of the modern social impact toolkit, including donor-advised funds, private foundations, and emerging structures and trends. Apply conversation prompts to lead discovery discussions that surface client values, purpose, and legacy goals. Predict how the advisor’s role will evolve as a collaborator with others across the stages of developing and implementing philanthropic plans. FACULTY Tony Macklin Tony Macklin leads the development of new education programs and field-building projects as Daylight’s Director of Advisor Practice. He is a philanthropist, philanthropoid, and philanthropy geek. Tony enjoys working at the intersection of meaningful giving and community results, specifically connecting older, established forms of philanthropy with emerging trends and experiments. Tony helps donors, families, grantmakers, and their advisors and associations answer questions about shared purpose, use of resources for social impact, governance, strategy, and assessment. He is a frequent speaker, trainer, and author. Course Format Program Type: Certificate program - asynchronous with module quizzes Program Delivery: Readings, videos, graphics, downloadable resources Program Length: 2 hours Program Complexity Level: Fundamentals Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate is complimentary for all advisors. Registration for Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate is coming soon.

Philanthropic Advising Learning Journey Philanthropic Advising Learning Journey By Dien Yuen Advisors come to philanthropic advising through many paths—wealth management, philanthropy, consulting, impact investing, and beyond. At the same time, client expectations, social impact tools, and the capabilities required to advise effectively have evolved significantly. As a result, advisors often face uncertainty about where to focus their development and how to adapt their approach. We created the Philanthropic Advising Learning Journey to address this challenge. It helps advisors quickly recognize where they are in their professional journey and identify what to focus on next. The Learning Journey is grounded in Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model , which defines the behavioral and technical capabilities required to serve clients well in today’s environment. How to use it Start by identifying the persona that most closely reflects your current role or focus. Each persona highlights: The capabilities advisors typically bring. The gaps or pressures they are experiencing. Learning pathways that align with those needs. Many advisors will see themselves in more than one persona over time. The Learning Journey is designed to be revisited as client needs evolve, careers progress, or responsibilities shift. How does this help advisors? The Learning Journey helps advisors: Prioritize learning in a crowded professional landscape. Build confidence by focusing on capabilities that matter now. Engage in more relevant conversations with clients about purpose, impact, and legacy. Create a shared language for development within teams and firms. For individual advisors, it provides clarity and direction. For managers and firm leaders, it offers a coherent way to develop teams around shared competencies while respecting individual strengths and growth paths. Our goal is not to prescribe a single path, but to support informed, intentional growth—so advisors can meet today’s complexity with confidence and relevance. Philanthropic Advising Learning Journey 2026 .pdf Download PDF • 559KB

Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why By Dien Yuen Earlier this month, I completed a training on philanthropy and social impact with a group of learners from Singapore’s wealth management and nonprofit sectors. As part of the session, we explored why people in Singapore choose to give, and why they sometimes hold back. Why People Give Six key themes emerged as we discussed why people in Singapore give. Generosity here extends far beyond charity - it is an expression of purpose, identity, and legacy. 1. Altruism & Social Impact The dominant motivation centers on helping others and improving the world. People give to multiply goodness, pay it forward, help underprivileged communities, and to uplift others. The responses reflect a deep-seated belief in social responsibility and the transformative power of collective good — giving as a means to create positive change. 2. Financial & Pragmatic Factors A secondary cluster focuses on strategic or rational benefits: tax deductions and reductions, corporate branding, and funding innovation. Here, giving is seen as both smart and impactful — aligning philanthropy with business or financial stewardship. 3. Legacy & Family Values Many view giving as an act of legacy — teaching children, honoring loved ones, or to instill good values for the next generation. This cluster highlights intergenerational philanthropy, where giving becomes a way to pass on moral and social capital. 4. Personal Fulfillment & Meaning For some, giving fulfills a personal or emotional need: feeling grateful, finding purpose, or feeding the soul. 5. Religious & Spiritual Roots Faith-based reasons, such as afterlife blessings , karma , or emptying for regeneration, play a meaningful role, underscoring how religion anchors generosity in moral duty and divine reciprocity. 6. Cultural & Moral Influences Some respondents connect giving to upbringing, tradition, or cultural expectation, especially within Asian or collectivist contexts — giving as a reflection of who we are raised to be: part of Asian culture , custodian for the future , or social theories of reciprocity and gift exchange . Why People Do Not Give Learners shared a range of personal, social, and practical reasons for why people in Singapore do not give. Seven main themes emerged, showing that hesitation stems from emotional, informational, and situational barriers. 1. Trust and Credibility Gaps A recurring barrier is distrust in charitable institutions. Many learners noted uncertainty about how funds are managed or whether donations truly reach the intended beneficiaries. Comments such as “don’t trust charities” and “lack of credibility (data)” reflect deeper concerns about transparency and accountability — highlighting the need for clearer communication and tangible evidence of impact. 2. Financial Constraints Giving may also be constrained by economic realities. Respondents mentioned “not enough money (yet)” and a “scarcity mindset” , reflecting the tension between wanting to help and needing to prioritize personal financial security. Some also perceive that some contributions would be insignificant compared to wealthier donors — a belief that diminishes motivation. 3. Awareness and Knowledge Gaps Some mentioned that people don’t know where or how to give. This indicates that information accessibility and simple giving pathways could significantly increase participation. 4. Lack of Personal Connection or Relevance Some people don’t give because charitable causes feel distant or unrelatable ( “cause does not relate to me” ). When individuals don’t see a clear connection between their values and a cause, motivation wanes. 5. Structural and Convenience Barriers Practical barriers also play a role. The comment “operational hurdle to give — not easy to donate” illustrates how inefficient systems or complex donation processes can discourage action, even among those who want to give. 6. Social and Cultural Influences Giving is also shaped by social context and cultural expectations. Phrases like “my family does not appreciate” and “kiasu mentality” reflect social norms that discourage giving or prioritize self-preservation over generosity. This indicates a social permission gap, where community attitudes can either enable or inhibit giving behavior. 7. Fatigue and Negative Experiences Some respondents suggested signs of donor fatigue or emotional burnout. Prior negative experiences — such as feeling unappreciated, over-solicited, or disappointed — can lead to disengagement. The Balance of Heart and Head Together, these insights paint a portrait of giving in Singapore that is both empathetic and evaluative. People give when it aligns with their sense of purpose and trust; they hesitate when these are absent. The future of philanthropy in Singapore, therefore, lies in bridging this gap — fostering trust, transparency, and personal connection that turn good intentions into sustained generosity. Dien Yuen with WMI October 2025

Growing Together: Insights From the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model Growing Together: Insights From the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model By Dien Yuen Modern philanthropic advising lacked a clear definition of the advisor’s role and a shared standard for what constitutes high-quality practice. Daylight created the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model (Model) to fill that gap. The Model comprises thirteen competences, each with a corresponding list of objectives to bring clarity, consistency, and credibility to a rapidly evolving field. At the DAF Giving Summit , Alisia Robin, Elaine Chu , and I facilitated the Impact Lab session titled "Shaping the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model." We asked the packed room of advisors and nonprofit professionals to complete a self-assessment that helps them reflect on where they are today and identify the skills they may want to build as they grow in their practice. The goal was to identify perceived strengths, areas for growth, and emerging patterns to inform training priorities and organizational development strategies across the field. We gathered the results of the two activities and have distilled our observations below. We thank all the participants for their time. How Advisors Self-Rate on Competencies In our first activity, we asked participants to rate themselves on the 13 competencies on a scale of 1 to 5 (aligned with Patricia Benner’s “From Novice to Expert” model, with 1 = Novice, 2 = Advanced Beginner, 3 = Competent, 4 = Proficient, and 5 = Expert). Across the dataset, participants demonstrated confidence in core behavioral and technical competencies while indicating development needs in specialized areas such as investment acumen, gift planning, and risk management. Most Often Rated 4–5s (Strengths) 60% of participants rated themselves as 4s or 5s in Behavioral Intelligence , making it the highest-rated competency. 47% of respondents appear proficient in Family Systems and Governance , yet the same percentage rated themselves as 1s and 2s. Other top-rated competencies include: Relationship & Network Development Purpose & Legacy Identification Sector Knowledge Mostly Rated 3s (Neutral/Average) 50% of respondents scored themselves as 3s in the Cultural Dexterity competency. Other areas of moderate comfort include: Research & Data Analysis Risk & Opportunity Management Mostly Rated 1–2s (Growth Areas) More than half of the respondents rated themselves low in Education and Facilitation . Other competencies trending lower include: Philanthropic & Social Impact Vehicles Risk & Opportunity Management Gift Planning and Investment Acumen were the lowest-rated competencies overall. 47% of respondents rated as 1s - 2s in both of these areas. 87% rated themselves 3 or lower in Investment Acumen . From Great to Growth In our second activity, we asked participants to review the 9 Components of Modern Philanthropic Planning , which are mapped to the 13 competencies in the Model. These are common deliverables expected from advisors. While an advisor or firm may not offer every component or follow a fixed planning sequence, modern philanthropic advisors are expected to be conversant across all areas. Participants were asked to identify the top three services they are currently delivering well (“great”) and three they would like to develop (“growth”). 91% of participants rated Purpose Clarification as great. Legacy Planning (43% identified as great; 52% identified as growth) received split perceptions — some feel capable, others see room to grow. Assessment & Learning (29% identified as great; 59% identified as growth) is a major developmental area. The data suggests the group is strong in defining direction but less confident in executing and measuring success. Great Mixed/Transitional Growth Purpose Clarification Legacy Planning Operational Choices Strategy Definition Vehicle Choices Resource Allocation Governance Choices Social Impact Tactic Choices Assessment & Learning Program An Evolving Philanthropic Advising Field The findings from this group of advisors and nonprofit professionals suggest that those practicing philanthropic advising bring diverse training, experiences, and perspectives to their work. Participants demonstrate notable strength in relationship building, behavioral intelligence, and purpose facilitation—core competencies that underpin effective advising. At the same time, they are steadily growing into the core technical dimensions of the field. Across the two datasets, patterns point to development opportunities in specialized technical areas, such as investment acumen, gift planning, and risk management. For some, partnering with other advisors who are proficient in gift planning and investments offers a balance. By deepening the connection between relational insight and technical skill, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration, and embedding continuous learning into professional growth, these practitioners can advance both their individual practice and the field as a whole. Ultimately, our observations affirm that philanthropic advising is maturing into a modern profession—one grounded in empathy, strengthened by expertise, and united by a shared commitment to excellence. Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model is the first of its kind — a field-informed framework that defines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors advisors need to serve clients and communities effectively today. The thirteen core competencies capture the essence of a dynamic and evolving profession — one that demands both technical fluency and relational acumen. The Model offers a flexible structure for advisors, employers, and professional networks to assess, strengthen, and align their practice. Whether you’re a practitioner charting your growth, a leader committed to strengthening the field, or an employer shaping talent strategy, the Model can help you: Recruit and evaluate talent with greater clarity Guide professional development and coaching Align teams around shared expectations Build trust and transparency in advisory services Download the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model and begin mapping your learning journey today.

I learn best when... The Best Learning Environment Has…Snacks?!?! By Crystal Thompkins To kick off last month’s information sessions about the Certified Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) program, we asked attendees to complete the phrase “I learn best when________.” The top responses from attendees indicated that the best learning happens In open discussions with others Through practice and repetition With engaging topics and content With snacks Others shared they learn best when they can share and train others what they’ve learned. Some responses were more about the ideal settings, such as “not being interrupted” and “relaxed and calm.” Daylight and IPA check most of these boxes for a great learning experience. One of Daylight's guiding principles is creating an interactive learning environment that promotes practical application and embraces sharing ideas. In designing the Impact Philanthropy Advisor program, we incorporated many of the best principles or practices for adult learning. IPA brings individual learners together in a collaborative, peer-to-peer learning environment that combines self-study with group discussion. Learners will be able to apply the content in real-time by working through case studies and considering the implications for their clients and practice. The learning experience is guided by facilitators who will make the material and discussions instructive and engaging. That’s the good news. The bad news? Everyone must bring their own snacks. At least for now… ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.

Who Recommends Donor-Advised Funds? Who Recommends Donor-Advised Funds? By Dien Yuen Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are now among the most widely used charitable vehicles in the U.S., prized for their flexibility, administrative ease, and tax advantages. But who is recommending DAFs to donors and clients? What are their backgrounds, and where do they work? Daylights’ 2024 survey of 258 philanthropy advisors sheds light on these questions. Of the respondents, 140 (54%) reported having used or recommended DAFs in the prior three years, while 42 (16%) said they had not. By examining both groups, we can gain a deeper understanding of who these advisors are, where they work, and how their backgrounds influence their practices. The Broad Definition of Philanthropy Advisors The survey defined “philanthropy advisors” broadly - anyone engaged in navigating the who, what, why, and how of using resources for philanthropy and social impact. This included full-time philanthropic advisors as well as wealth advisors, tax advisors, attorneys, accountants, gift planners, or other nonprofit professionals. Where Advisors Who Recommend DAFs Work Advisors who used or recommended DAFs in the past three years most often work in community foundations or similar organizations (42%). By contrast, those who did not use or recommend DAFs were far more likely to be self-employed (54%). This suggests that advisors embedded in institutions that sponsor or manage DAFs are much more likely to recommend them than their peers in independent practice. Question: Which of the following best describes your current employer/business? Category DAF Users Non-DAF Users Consulting practice or firm (self-employed) 34% 54% Community foundation or similar organization 42% 4% Nonprofit organization 14% 28% Consulting practice or firm (as an employee or consultant) 10% 15% Advisor Backgrounds and Experience The survey shows that advisors who recommend DAFs come from diverse backgrounds. While 20% had 10–14 years in the field, many had either less than 10 years (25%) or over 20 years (40%) of experience. Non-DAF users skewed slightly older, with higher percentages in the 60+ range. Among DAF users, 70% were women, 17% were Black, and 16% identified as LGBTQ+—slightly more diverse than the non-DAF group. California, Washington, and Pennsylvania topped the list for DAF-recommending advisors’ locations. Clients Served Both DAF users and nonusers primarily serve individuals, families, and nonprofit organizations. More DAF users than nonusers describe more than half their clients as builders of new wealth, as opposed to inheritors of existing wealth. Question: What types of clients does your current employer/business serve? (Select all that apply.) Category DAF Users Non-DAF Users Businesses and social enterprises 61% 32% Community foundations 59% 44% Donor-advised funds 64% 32% Donor/funder collaboratives or issue funds 68% 43% Individuals and families 82% 78% Nonprofit organizations 77% 59% Operating foundations 42% 35% Private foundations 63% 52% Research groups 36% 7% What Services Do They Provide? Advisors who recommend DAFs often integrate charitable vehicle selection into a broader suite of services: 82% help clients define purpose and values. 77% develop impact strategies for charitable vehicles. 68% specifically guide clients in choosing and establishing vehicles such as DAFs, foundations, or trusts. Non-DAF users were less likely to provide this technical guidance, suggesting they may focus more on values-based advising, fundraising, or nonprofit-side donor engagement. Learning, Knowledge, and Professional Resources DAF users and nonusers rank learning on the job as most helpful to their learning and development as advisors. DAF users also note relationships with mentors to be helpful, while nonusers rank resources they find on their own—such as books, blogs, and online forums—as key to their learning. Advisors were asked to assess their current levels of knowledge across several key areas. DAF users and nonusers report equal levels of skill in the areas of client resource identification, financial capital development, and teaming and collaboration with other fields. However, DAF users rate themselves as more skilled than nonusers in the areas of sector knowledge, philanthropic planning and strategy development, charitable tools selection, and vehicle selection. Twice as many nonusers than DAF users consider themselves to be novices in financial capital development. The Bigger Picture DAFs are not the only tool advisors recommend—direct gifts, bequests, and private foundations also feature heavily—but they remain the most widely used across nearly all employer types. In short, advisors who recommend DAFs tend to be more institutionally connected and more confident in the technical aspects of charitable planning. For donors and clients, this means that working with such advisors often leads to clearer guidance on when and how to use DAFs alongside other vehicles like bequests or private foundations. For nonprofits, it underscores the importance of building relationships with advisors, since they play a pivotal role in steering charitable dollars. And for the advisors themselves, the findings highlight both the opportunities and responsibilities of recommending tools that can shape how, when, and where philanthropy flows. ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.