The Movements Trust exists to support people-powered systemic change.
We believe that there is not one single solution to the climate and economic emergencies, and multiple grassroots and people-powered efforts are required to respond to it. Social movements offer many strategies, whether to reduce extraction, exploitation, and consumption or to increase the protection of people and the planet.
For movements
We are a ‘charity sponsor,’ acting as an intermediary to get funding to non-profit groups who might otherwise be excluded from investment, due to lack of legal status. These are groups doing incredible work on the ground, who often go unrecognized.
– We connect movements to support services, including fiscal hosts, legal advice, and researchers.
– We are expanding our networks to be able to connect movements to other types of organizational support, including communications, fundraising, and coaching.
– We connect movements together so they can share skills, best practices, and build solidarity.
For funders
We support new and existing donors who want to invest in movement organizing but don’t know how, or who need a charitable partner to realize their philanthropic goals.
– We are a re-granter, working with foundations and donors to provide grants in a trust-based way—at speed, without onerous bureaucracy.
– We work alongside movements and funders to evaluate impact, understanding that social movements are not, and should not be expected to, behave like large organizations, NGOs, or charities. They offer something different—and are often more community-based, agile, and responsive.