Let’s change things for good.
Third Plateau is an impact consultancy partnering with philanthropy, nonprofits, and communities to build the infrastructure of change.
Building What’s Possible
We design bold strategies and solutions that are made to last.
Transformative Philanthropy
Third Plateau has managed over $2 billion in philanthropic investments for families, individuals, and foundations through meaningful and effective giving. Our custom services include philanthropic advising, grantmaking, program design, impact evaluation, governance, and full-service foundation outsourced staffing.
Impactful Organizations
Third Plateau strengthens organizations and leaders, helping them stay healthy, adaptable, and equipped with the tools and evidence to drive lasting change. Our tailored support delivers what organizations truly need, from strategy and planning to research, evaluation, facilitation, coaching, and in-house support.
Our Clients
Since 2011, Third Plateau has been a trusted partner for leading philanthropists and social sector organizations, including:
Our Work
We combine collaboration, clarity, and creativity to build lasting social good.
Democracy Funders Network
Third Plateau designed and serves as the long-term steward of the Democracy Funders Network, a cross-ideological learning and action community for funders concerned about the health of American democracy.
O2 Initiatives
When a pair of philanthropists wanted to tackle burnout among San Francisco Bay Area nonprofit leaders, they turned to Third Plateau to design and launch the O2 Sabbatical Award. We have managed the program since 2014, creating stronger leaders, smarter teams, and more resilient organizations.
CASA of Los Angeles
With a long history of supporting child welfare and juvenile justice systems, CASA of Los Angeles sought to clarify its next chapter of impact. They partnered with Third Plateau to develop a three-year strategic plan, facilitate scenario-planning, and coach leadership to strengthen the organization’s strategy and capacity for the future.
Jim Joseph Foundation
The Jim Joseph Foundation wanted to understand the effectiveness of its capacity-building strategy for early-stage grantees. Third Plateau conducted research, assessed needs, and developed actionable recommendations — including coaching and organizational assessments — to strengthen grantees while advancing the foundation’s strategic goals.
Insights
Articles, ideas, and updates from the Third Plateau team.
U.S. Democracy Hub Wins Two Anthem Awards for Best Use of Data
After San Francisco Parks Alliance Collapse, Third Plateau Leads $2M Fund
Do and Learn: Moving from Uncertainty to Action in Philanthropy
Smart.
Trusted.
Real.
Third Plateau offers a strategic advantage: a team that’s built for impact. Unlike other firms, we bring the resources of a large company with the custom experience and flexibility of a small shop.
We offer deep expertise and a wide range of services in one place. Our team provides everything you need to design and deliver breakthrough solutions to society’s most complex challenges, backed by practical support every step of the way.