The Technology Association of Grantmakers (TAG) is proud to announce the launch of “Inclusion by Design: A Human-Centered Leadership Cohort” coming March 2025. Designed for technology and operations professionals in philanthropy, the program emphasizes accessibility as a cornerstone for effective technology adoption. “Inclusion by Design” equips current and emerging leaders with the critical skills they need to excel in their roles.
Building on TAG’s “Equity Essentials for Philanthropy Tech” cohort program that was created in response to data from the 2018 and 2020 State of Philanthropy Tech surveys, “Inclusion by Design” is a specialized learning intensive that is both human-centered and value-aligned. The refreshed program puts new emphasis on accessibility as a key driver of technology adoption while also recognizing the increasing role that AI plays in our work and our world.
“Member feedback has consistently highlighted the need for more targeted training in accessibility and equitable technology practices,” said TAG Executive Director Jean Westrick. “’Inclusion by Design’ directly responds to those needs, providing actionable strategies for leaders to create accessible, inclusive, and impactful technology solutions. These are essential skills for driving meaningful change in philanthropy.”
Participants in “Inclusion by Design” will benefit from:
Peer Learning and Leadership Development: Collaborative sessions with sector peers to share experiences and build leadership capacity.
Expert-Led Training: Access to thought leaders and practical tools to address accessibility challenges and promote human-centered design.
Data-Driven Insights: Content informed by member feedback and applicable data to ensure relevance and impact.
“Inclusion by Design” is open to foundation staff, consultants, and technology providers in philanthropy. It prioritizes the operational and leadership roles critical to advancing the missions of grantmaking organizations. By equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to integrate accessibility and equity into their technology strategies, “Inclusion by Design” prepares them to lead with confidence and drive sustainable, inclusive impact.
“Philanthropy, at its core, is human-centered and true innovation happens when accessibility and equity are built into the solutions and technologies we create,” says Lekisha Middleton, the program’s lead facilitator. “In today’s workforce and philanthropic landscape, leaders must possess the skills needed to ‘meet the moment’, to create inclusive solutions and environments for their grantees, employees and the communities in which they serve. This program will give you the tools and community that you need to stay the course in times of rapid social change.”
Learn More About the Program
TAG will be hosting an information session on February 12, 2025 to provide an overview of the program. Those who join the session will have an opportunity to learn about the curriculum, sliding scale fee structure, time commitment, and benefits of participation.
Additionally, attendees will have the chance to learn more about the certificates offered to those who complete all coursework.
Registration for the program will begin immediately following the information session.Visit the “Inclusion by Design” page for additional information about the program.