Beginning March 25, 2021, Foundation Directory Online Essential is only available through a 24-hour day pass (which can be renewed every 30 days). To access FDO Essential a Free Library card and PIN are required. Once on FDO Essential, you will be asked to create an account and sign up for a day pass. Watch this video to learn more.
Nonprofit
The Regional Foundation Center informs the local nonprofit sector through research, resources, and workshops. The RFC houses Philadelphia's largest publicly accessible collection of print and electronic resources on fundraising, nonprofit management, general philanthropy, and institutional advancement. The RFC also provides free access to the Foundation Directory Online—the most comprehensive database of U.S. grantmakers and their grants. Through its comprehensive collection and professionally certified staff librarians, the RFC promotes responsible nonprofit management and successful fundraising by nonprofit groups at all levels—from grassroots startups to established institutions.
View our annual report and learn how the RFC supported Philadelphia's nonprofit community this year.
See what everyone is saying about our great service!
Services
- Present and provide free and low-cost workshops and programs
- Provide free access to electronic resources
- Provide a comprehensive collection of print resources on topics including: grant writing, nonprofit management, fundraising, and marketing
- Curated list of online resources and sample documents
- Network of regional and national partners
Start Here!
The Regional Foundation Center is excited to offer one-on-one sessions with a librarian. We can provide individual or group training on our databases with regard to foundation funding, starting a nonprofit, prospect research and more!
Upcoming Events
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Virtual Introduction to Foundation Directory Online Essential
Thu, October 28, 2021
10:00 A.M.
Parkway Central Library
Learn how to use everyone's favorite foundation funding database, Foundation Directory Online (FDO). The user-friendly interface makes it easy to find funders that are interested in supporting your organization's mission. During this workshop we will explore the…
Virtual Introduction to Fundraising Planning
Tue, November 2, 2021
10:00 A.M.
Parkway Central Library
This program is part of the Regional Foundation Center's Diversify Your Funding Series. Does your organization need help directing its fundraising efforts? Planning focuses your organization by setting fundraising priorities and helps give staff and board members a road map to…
Sample Documents
Just getting started? Find inspiration in this collection of sample nonprofit documents and quick resource guides. If you need additional assistance, contact the BRIC nonprofit department or schedule an appointment to meet with a librarian.
Databases & Digital Resources
Explore our extensive collection of premier nonprofit databases. If you need additional assistance utilizing the databases contact the BRIC nonprofit department or schedule an appointment to meet with a librarian.
Online Resources
- BoardSource
- Free Management Library
- National Center on Charitable Statistics
- Tax Information for Charities & Other Nonprofits
- Legal Issues in Advanced Fundraising (Marla Conley, Esq.)
- 12-Week Major Gift Campaign (Andy Robinson)
- Leadership Skills for Social Change (Andy Robinson)
- Nonprofit Repositioning Fund
- Arts and Business Council of Greater Philadelphia
- Catalyst Center for Nonprofit Management
- Generocity
- Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance
- Nonprofit Center at La Salle
- Pennsylvania State Bureau of Charitable Organizations
- Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO)
- Philanthropy Network of Greater Philadelphia
- RSVP
Advisory Council
The Regional Foundation Center (RFC) gratefully acknowledges the support of our Advisory Council, which provides financial and human resources in support of the RFC's mission. Advisory Council members are available to advise and guide RFC staff librarians as they plan and coordinate outreach services to nonprofit audiences. The support of the Council is also essential to the growth, maintenance, and stability of the RFC's collection of print and electronic materials. Member organizations include:
