The Philanthropy Pivot: Unlocking Foundation
Partnerships for Your University

Part of the VentureWell Innovation in Action Learning Series

Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

(UTC-04:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Foundations are playing a growing role in shaping the future of higher education—but building strong, lasting partnerships takes more than a compelling mission.

Join us for a practical conversation featuring university leaders and foundation experts. 

We’ll explore what it really takes to connect with foundation decision-makers, communicate your institution’s value, and move from one-off meetings to long-term collaboration.

You’ll gain insights into:

  • What funders are looking for in today’s landscape

  • How to speak their language and align on priorities

  • Real strategies for building trust and momentum

This session is ideal for anyone working to grow institutional funding through mission-aligned philanthropic partnerships.

About the Speakers

 

Ify Aduba leads the Entrepreneurship Funders Network, a philanthropic network of more than 20 foundations focused on advancing inclusive entrepreneurship. Since joining in 2021, she has brought values-driven leadership and strategic focus - positioning the organization as a key convener driving equity and collaboration across entrepreneurial ecosystems. Learn more here.

 

Kory Murphy joined the Lemelson Foundation in 2023, where he leads efforts to advance inclusive economic growth for Black and Latino entrepreneurs. With more than 25 years of experience in Oregon’s public sector and private consulting, he has led equity-focused initiatives in child welfare, economic development and climate tech. Before joining the foundation, he co-founded NWX, a startup accelerator for underserved climate tech founders. Learn more here.

 

David Wolf is a seasoned advancement leader with more than 25 years of experience connecting universities with philanthropic partners. He has led development efforts at the University of California, Los Angeles, the University of Alabama, and the University of North Texas. At Tulane University, he leads major gifts strategy to support student success and institutional growth. Learn more here.