Advancing the Public’s Health: Current Philanthropic Approaches and Priorities for the Future

Health foundations use the term “public health” in varied ways, reflecting how its boundaries have expanded beyond governmental public health into the social determinants of health (SDOH), equity, and the environment. While foundation leaders broadly agree on the population-level nature of public health, they apply the concept differently depending on community needs and priorities, organizational histories, and strategic approaches to advancing health.

This report is grounded in discussions with a diverse set of philanthropic and public health leaders about the current state of the field. It aims to assess how foundations view public health and their guiding frameworks, as well as to identify lessons learned and priorities for strengthening the public health ecosystem.