The philanthropy workforce in the United States continues to become more diverse and exhibits less gender inequality despite “economic and societal pressures,” according to new research by the Council on Foundations.
“It’s heartening that despite everything, the sector appears to remain committed to diversity,” said Jason Ludwig, director of content at the Council on Foundations, which produced the 2025 Grantmaker Salary and Benefits Report.
Collating information from 985 grantmakers and 11,366 full-time staff members, the report found that the number of people of color in full-time grantmaking roles has grown by 4% since 2022, and the number of foundation female CEOs is slowly growing by a percentage point or more each year to 64% today. The CEO gender pay gap is also closing, with women now earning 88% of the median salary that their male counterparts earn, rather than 84% as reported in 2024.
About the author
Rebecca L. Root
Rebecca L. Root is a freelance reporter for Devex based in Bangkok. Previously senior associate & reporter, she produced news stories, video, and podcasts as well as partnership content. She has a background in finance, travel, and global development journalism and has written for a variety of publications while living and working in Bangkok, New York, London, and Barcelona.
