New solutions for our time.

Our generation faces complex and longterm challenges, including essential threats to our democracy and civic life. North Star creates collaborative spaces where civic leaders can develop visionary solutions to complex public interest problems. We take an entrepreneurial approach and invest our time and financial resources to accelerate change. We focus on democracy and shared prosperity — because we believe that these are the building blocks for a hopeful future.

  • Portland is Possible

    Portland civic leaders are hungry for a space to get to work on “the future of Portland” — whether they define that as reviving downtown, investing in neighborhood centers, addressing homelessness, or finding dynamic leaders to serve in public office.

    Over the last two years, we’ve partnered with Western States Center, Oregon Humanities and others to engage community leaders in events and interviews to learn more about this need. We’re excited by the potential of bringing together civic leaders in a “shared learning” community to foster creativity, connection and equitable outcomes for Portland.

    Learn More.

  • Funding Strategies

    We fund efficiently and recognize the expertise that our grantees bring to their work — some call this “trust based” grant making. For individuals and family foundations looking for a values-aligned strategic giving partner, we offer easy pathways to invest alongside us, whether you choose to make a gift that ends in one zero or five.

    Give with us.

  • Our Values

    A pragmatic focus on community outcomes is the first and final measure of our values in action. We seek solutions at the scale of the challenges we face and invest our time and resources where we see leverage for meaningful results.

    Learn about us.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to receive quarterly news and updates