U.N. Sustainable Development Goals falling short; How to apply an SDG lens to your giving

In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It established 17 Sustainable Development Goals that address critical areas of economic, social and environmental development that impact billions of people.

These SDGs were ratified by 193 governments and apply to every country — including the United States.

The categories are: no poverty; zero hunger; good health and well-being; quality education; gender equality; clean water and sanitation; affordable energy; decent work and economic growth; industry, innovation and infrastructure; reduced inequalities; sustainable cities and communities; responsible consumption and production; climate action; life below water; life on land; strong institutions of peace and justice; and partnership to achieve these goals.

Alarmingly, three years into the project’s 15-year timetable, the U.N. reports little progress. Funding is trillions of dollars short. The U.S. ranks last among the G20 nations in achieving the SDGs, and 36th among all the countries in the world.

Led by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, foundations and other philanthropists are stepping up and committing billions of dollars to achievement of SDGs. There is much more to be done, however, and every philanthropist — whether giving through a family or corporate foundation, donor-advised fund or personal funds — can apply an SDG lens to their giving decisions.

Where do we start?

Although the giant foundations tend to act globally in their pursuit of the SDGs, it is equally important for the rest of the philanthropic sector to act locally, regionally or nationally.

Donors frequently ask, “Where do we start?” Begin by asking this question: “Does our mission or passion align with one or more the SDG goals and targets?” Given the breadth of these issues, the answer is usually “yes.” Identify an SDG. Then, dig deeper to determine the specific targets established within the broader goals — and how these targets mesh with your own interests.

Next, since the SDGs address problems much larger than any one funder can tackle, ask: “Who else is focusing on the same issues?” For example, there are several funding collaboratives for the SDG focusing on climate change – such as The Climate and Energy Funders Group and the Climate Works Foundation. For the SDG focused on gender equality, consider the Women’s Funding Network. For the SDG to protect life below water, see Funding the Ocean. And so on.

Once you locate appropriate funding collaboratives, learn about their initiatives and “best practices.” Attend their meetings, read their publications and ascertain how your contribution – at any level in any place –- can help advance the broader SDG goals.

Promote the SDG paradigm

Ask the beneficiaries of your philanthropy how their work fits into the SDG paradigm. Requesting that even local nonprofits seeking your support align their work with the SDGs enhances awareness of (and focus on) these important issues. This holds true for formal grant application processes as well as less-formal giving efforts.

Lastly, communicate your SDG-centric approach on your website or in your newsletters (if you have them) — and in your less-formal communications with other stakeholders in the philanthropic sector. Intentionally incorporate your role in the SDG effort in all communication efforts.

Achievement of the U.N. SDGs by 2030 will require that all three legs of the stool – government, business and philanthropy –- do their part.

Natalie Ross, Vice-President of External Relations for the Council on Foundations, defines philanthropy’s role as “essential because of what we can bring to these goals — collaboration, engagement with grassroots leaders, a willingness to take risks and leverage resources — which are critical components of global development. Funders should bring this experience and expertise to bear as they work to align their domestic grant-making within a global development framework.”

For more information, see SDG Funders and SDG Philanthropy Platform.

Nonprofit of the Month

Since March, 2012, Food for Thought has helped to address weekend hunger for Denver’s Title One students. Providing a Powersack of nonperishable items to every student in their school, FFT has grown to serving 33 schools and over 10,000 students. FFT is 100% volunteer driven with zero overhead – fueled by impassioned volunteers who insist our children should have this critical component to their growth. https:// foodforthoughtdenver.org