Swift Foundation Announces Plans To Sunset

SANTA FE, NM - The Board of Directors of the Swift Foundation formally decided to enter a spend down and sunset the organization in December 2028.

The Foundation, together with Indigenous leadership, has built an integrated, holistic model of grantmaking rooted in Indigenous values that are responsive to the rights and self-determination of Indigenous Peoples, and the realities of creating social change in a complex and dynamic world. After several years of reflection and engaged work with communities, Swift Foundation determined this work is best achieved outside of the traditional philanthropic paradigm by directly strengthening Indigenous leadership, self-determination, and catalyzing a transference of family wealth to Indigenous wisdom keepers and cultural bearers living in Indigenous homelands and communities.

Swift Foundation staff and board members are currently developing a comprehensive detailed timeline for the spend down and will work closely with grantee partners throughout the process to ensure their vital work can continue.

Swift Foundation Executive Director Suzanne Benally will continue in her leadership role and support ongoing work during this period.

“It is our hope and commitment as a sunsetting grant maker that we use the next six years to further the missions of our partners and share our knowledge and insight in grantmaking priorities to interrupt and shift philanthropic ideology and practices towards more just, equitable, and inclusive institutions,” said Benally. “While our doors at Swift Foundation are going to close, we have an opportunity to look beyond ourselves for this legacy and important work to carry on in new and alternative ways grounded in the leadership of our Indigenous communities.”

“By moving into a spend down at this urgent moment in history, Swift Foundation is able to provide significant resources to our partners and help envision a stronger future for all concerned,” said John F. Swift, president and founder.

Swift Foundation is a family endowment foundation dedicated to biocultural diversity, Indigenous rights, and food sovereignty in Indigenous communities throughout South and North America.