1. Predictive Philanthropy:
Mobilizing Data and Resources
Towards Proactive Development
Irene Kao
December 2011

2. Concept
• A strategy and framework for analyzing data to
identify emerging at-risk communities for pro-
active infrastructure funding.
> Focus on pre-emptive action vs. post-trauma triage.
> Build from predictive policing and other models of
using information to drive responsive and real-time
actions and solutions.
> Employ quantitative and qualitative data to directly
inform decisions and strategy on an ongoing, dynamic
basis.
> Leverage national resources for local agency.
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011

3. Implementation
• Track leading community indicators, benchmark
against community profiles, and convene
partners around identified areas of opportunity.
> Examples of indicators capturing most
disenfranchised populations:
• Rapid migration of low-income communities;
• Single industry economies;
• Influxes of new immigrant/refugee populations;
• Incarceration and recidivism rates; and
• Rates of uninsured.
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011

4. Tools
• Data mapping and sharing software:
> Online platform for visualizing geo-based
data, identifying needs and resources, and hosting
data- and map-driven discussions.
• Living case studies:
> Works-in-progress that shine a light on issues and are
open for peer engagement. Qualitative complement to
quantitative data.
> Example: Wiki pages per profile of “up-and-coming”
areas (e.g., Pittsburgh, Atlanta) with indicator ratings
and outline of successful resources and practices.
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011

5. Example: Education data mapping
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011

6. Tools (continued)
• Tides Learning Community:
> Convenings to engage partners and discuss strategy.
> Frame through the intersections of Tides focus areas:
equity, education and environment.
> National: launch concept and orient people to
system, partner with national funders, and plan for big
picture strategy.
> Local/regional: partner with funders based in
identified communities, plan for concrete next steps to
build infrastructure, and seed local networks
(e.g., giving circles, funds and projects).
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011

7. Potential Partnerships
• Philanthropy affinity groups and networks:
> National grantmaking associations;
> Population-based affinity groups; and
> Networks of local funders and community coalitions.
• Government:
> Local, regional and state agencies and departments
> Federal offices and initiatives
• Collaboratives:
> Other place- and population-based
initiatives, programs and coalitions
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011

8. Measuring Success
• Goals for 2012:
> Formal partnerships with at least 5 major foundations
to support and promote initiative.
> Collective action fund of $5-10 million dedicated per
year for three years (initial commitment).
> Identification of 3-5 pilot communities, and first open
RFP process for local funder match (2:1 collective
action fund to local match ratio).
> Initial outreach to international funders to discuss
predictive philanthropy launch by global regions.
> Year One report to the community.
Predictive Philanthropy, Irene Kao, November 2011