Our Story

Remarkably independent…
for the way you give

Every good business idea begins with a problem. Ours was simple: Donor advised funds were frustratingly inflexible.

The solution, however, wasn’t quite as simple: Create a donor advised fund platform that’s both flexible and free of unnecessary restrictions and potential conflicts of interest.

It’s from that simple problem that the idea for iGiftFund was born.

In 1986, while spearheading one of the earliest donor advised  account programs at The Cleveland Foundation, Phil Tobin began noticing a familiar pattern. For many of his clients, a limited menu of pooled investments was not what the donors wanted. Prospective donors often came with their trusted financial advisor, only to discover that there was no flexibility to tailor investments.

There were other limitations as well, such as contribution inflexibility (only certain asset types could be contributed); grant-making restrictions (regional focus and only 6% could be granted annually); programmatic limitations (grant-making limitations); succession limitations (often limited to one generation); and more.

Then there was the option of product-focused, commercial charitable fund accounts, which are equally challenging in that they offer a limited menu of proprietary, pooled investments.

The recurring question was: “Why does this have to be so difficult?”

Changes were clearly needed, because the industry was dominated by a handful of organizations that had agendas that were less than donor-friendly and that offered frustratingly few options.

At iGiftFund, we’re working to transform the currently limited and inflexible world of donor-advised funds into one that’s truly independent. This independence allows us to focus on and act in your best interests. It also enables us to offer a uniquely personalized experience that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

We believe that philanthropy should be simple, straightforward, and enjoyable—without hidden agendas. It should leave you feeling content and confident, not frustrated. Finally, we believe that everyone deserves the right to enjoy true independence.

Whether you’re just starting out and want flexibility for uncertain future use, or you’re simply tired of the limitations of traditional charitable gift funds, we invite you to give us a call. We’re confident that once you experience firsthand what a difference our innovative model can make, you’ll be a believer too.

We look forward to working with you.