By Carrie Clogg, foundation director, Businessolver
In recent years, the share of U.S. charitable giving directed to organizations serving women and girls has surpassed 2% for the first time, totaling over $11 billion annually. This milestone reflects a broader shift: Women are not only increasing their financial contributions but also reshaping the nature of philanthropy through deeper engagement and strategic partnerships.
Beyond writing the check
Traditionally, philanthropy has often been associated with financial contributions—writing a check and stepping back. Today, women are challenging that model. They are asking deeper, more strategic questions:
- What does your organization truly need to succeed?
- Have you developed a comprehensive strategic plan?
- How can I connect you with others who can amplify your impact?
This shift reflects a desire to move from transactional giving to transformational partnerships. Women philanthropists are not content with passive involvement; they want to be active collaborators in driving change.
The power of networks
One of the most significant contributions women bring to philanthropy is the ability to leverage relationships. By tapping into their networks, women create ecosystems of support that extend far beyond financial resources. These connections foster partnerships between nonprofits, businesses and community leaders — multiplying the impact of every dollar invested.
Leading by example
After 15 years leading nonprofit organizations, transitioning to corporate giving was a challenge — but also an opportunity to grow as a philanthropist. I quickly learned that corporate funders must navigate complex regulations and understand the nuances of different foundation types. This knowledge is critical for making informed, impactful decisions.
At first, I believed corporate support was about funding nonprofits with stellar results. In reality, helping organizations through difficult times can be just as valuable—sometimes delivering even greater long-term impact. Resilience matters.
As a female foundation director, I lead with empathy, but pair it with strategy and creativity. Corporate philanthropy isn’t just about dollars; it’s about leveraging expertise, networks and influence to strengthen communities. When we combine compassion with innovation, we create partnerships that truly transform lives.
Encouraging strategic thinking
Women’s collaborative approach also challenges nonprofits to think bigger and bolder. By asking tough questions and encouraging strategic planning, women philanthropists help organizations clarify their goals, measure outcomes and build sustainable models for growth. This level of engagement elevates philanthropy from charity to systemic change.
Collaboration in action
One inspiring model for encouraging women to lead in giving and volunteering is Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build. This initiative invites a woman to chair a build day and recruit female friends, family and colleagues to join in constructing a home—often something they’ve never done before. Teams also fundraise for the project, amplifying their impact beyond the physical build.
I love how this model empowers women to step into leadership, collaborate, and try something new, all while making a tangible difference in their communities. Many Habitat chapters sponsor Women Build events, and I encourage anyone to participate— you’ll gain more than you give.
Looking ahead
The future of philanthropy is not just about giving—it’s about connecting. Women are proving that when donors become partners, and when networks are mobilized for a common purpose, real and lasting change happens. As this movement grows, nonprofits and communities alike will benefit from a model that values collaboration as much as contribution.
Carrie Clogg has served as the director of the Businessolver Foundation since 2019. Prior to that appointment she held corporate giving positions at the Principal Foundation and Kum & Go/Krause Group. She received her Bachelor of Music from DePauw University and her Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Lesley University. In 2016, Carrie obtained the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) from The American College of Financial Services. Carrie is an active volunteer for several nonprofits and currently serves as the board chair of the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation and board member of the Des Moines Metro Opera and Orchard Place. Carrie is a member of the 2024 Leadership Iowa Class, 2015 Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute, part of the 2014 Business Record Forty Under 40 class, and was awarded the Citizen of the Year award from the Des Moines Downtown Chamber of Commerce. She resides in Clive with husband, Joshua, and children Sam (18) and Charlie (15).
