Home > Development Management > A Hedgehog Moment: The Roles and Pitfalls of Strategic Philanthropy for Family Foundations and Donors: Book Review

A Hedgehog Moment: The Roles and Pitfalls of Strategic Philanthropy for Family Foundations and Donors: Book Review

May 2026
Media Article
Publisher : Bessemer Trust

19817

This book review discusses the growth of foundations, noting that from 200 in 1930 with $1 billion in assets, they grew to nearly 76,000 by 2010 with $565 billion in assets and $46 billion in annual giving. It reflects on "strategic philanthropy" for family foundations and donors, acknowledging its potential while cautioning against its complexities. The review emphasizes the importance of clear values, sensitivity to consequences, and attention to implementation in philanthropic endeavors, advocating for a nuanced understanding of its effectiveness beyond mere strategic assertion.

Author(s) :

CH Hamilton

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Key topics

Social Justice, Philanthropy and Human Rights

Also found in

Strategic Fundraising, Donor Engagement and Resource Mobilisation

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