Events
Funder Webinar
Beyond the 501(c)(3): Understanding Power-Building Through 501(c)(4) Strategies
December 9, 2026 @ 11:00 am – 12:15 pm PST
501(c)(4) organizations are uniquely positioned to drive social change and advance policy goals because they can use a broader array of advocacy tools than 501(c)(3)s. Unlike c3s, c4s have no lobbying limits and can engage in certain forms of partisan political activity and electoral work — enabling them to build productive relationships with decisionmakers through legislative advocacy and election campaigns.
This is an educational webinar open to all funders about the fundamentals of c3 vs. c4 work and how c4 activity is a powerful and complementary lever to build durable power and policy change. Speakers will share examples of what they have been able to accomplish through c4 work. We’ll also explore how foundations can legally resource c4 work and considerations on how funders and movement partners can establish affiliate c4s.
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Funders (SAFSF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The presentations in this webinar will not include any candidate endorsements, other partisan campaign activity, or any calls to action to support specific c4s that are lobbying on specific pending or proposed legislation or any specific 501(c)(4) social welfare organizations.
Speakers
- Sophie Ackoff, Environmental Advocacy Project
- Sean Carroll, Policy Director, Land Stewardship Project (LSP)
- Sarah Hackney, Coalition Director, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC)
- Josh McNeil, Deputy Director, Walton Conservation Coalition
- Joe Shultz, Executive Director, Platform for Agriculture and Climate Transformation (PACT)
This webinar is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about compliance with federal, state, or local law that may apply to your organization, you should consult experienced legal counsel.
