The mission of the Funders' Network is to strengthen and expand funders' abilities to support organizations working to build more livable communities through smarter growth policies and practices. We believe that if the Network can play a catalytic role in maintaining and increasing sustained engagement by a broad cross-section of funders in three areas—research and development to identify the right ideas, delivery capacity to move the ideas to action, and increased market demand for more livable communities—then the already emerging movement for smarter growth and more livable communities ultimately will reform sprawl-inducing policies and practices and result in more equitable and sustainable communities.



The Network operates based on the following values:



People and Place: We value people as well as communities and believe in the need to create great neighborhoods and regions.



Collaboration: We are committed to diversity of participation, interdependence, and multi-disciplinary approaches.



Equity: We believe in equal access to opportunity across race, gender, and generational lines, and are committed to social justice and inter-generational fairness.



Integration: We recognize that achieving sustainable, more livable communities requires equal commitment to the economy, equity, and the environment.



Environmental Stewardship: We recognize that we must take responsibility to protect the environment, promote sound land-use decisions, and advance sustainable practices in all sectors.



Optimism: We believe that leadership, sustained commitment, and bringing together diverse individuals in holistic approaches can affect positive change.



Inclusion: We welcome new voices and ideas from a broad spectrum of funders, practitioners and other leaders to increase our knowledge and effectiveness.