Since 2010, GIFE has been calling for greater diversity in the Brazilian foundation sector. Currently, independent foundations account for just 15 per cent of GIFE members, and the new Network of Independent Funds for Social Justice numbers only ten organizations, all of them established since 2000.

While few in number, independent foundations are critical for developing the social sector in Brazil. In addition to advancing the causes to which they are dedicated, most relate to human rights, and help to provide the much-needed independent funding to strengthen the work of civil society organizations.

In December 2014 GIFE published Independent social investors: empowerment and autonomy of civil society organizations, a collection of nine articles from independent funders such as Fundo Elas, BrazilFoundation and Baobá Fund. The essays provide insight into the history and current context of independent funds in Brazil, as well as an analysis of their importance for Brazilian democracy.

To complement the collection, GIFE has also developed infographics and a video featuring representatives and supporters of independent foundations who also contributed to the book.

To download
http://www.gife.org.br at http://tinyurl.com/GifeInfo and http://tinyurl.com/GifeReport