Grantmakers Forum – Funding in Focus: Priorities and Possibilities

Grantmakers Forum – Funding in Focus: Priorities and Possibilities
May 7, 2026

TVNPA’s 2026 Grantmakers Forum brought together nonprofit leaders and philanthropic partners for an insightful conversation about the changing landscape of funding and community impact. This engaging discussion explored how foundations, corporate philanthropy, and local giving organizations are adapting to economic shifts, evolving community needs, and an increasingly complex nonprofit environment. In this recording, panelists share valuable perspectives on funding priorities, the grantmaking process, building stronger relationships between nonprofits and funders, and the importance of collaboration in addressing community challenges. The conversation also offers practical insight into how organizations can navigate uncertainty while strengthening their mission driven work. This year’s panel featured: Judi Lopez, California Endowment Brandi Howard, East Bay Community Foundation Dennis Gambs, Rotarian Foundation of Livermore Kevin Greenlee, Pleasanton North Rotary Foundation Eduardo “Lalo” Gonzalez, San Francisco Foundation Michelle Walker-Wade, Sandia National Laboratories Moderated by Christine Beitsch-Bahmani. Thank you to Sandia National Laboratories and Connected Philanthropy for their sponsorship of this program.