Chantal Forster and Sam Caplan: Technology Accelerates Change
Technology can be an incredible asset for those working in grantmaking and philanthropy, but too often this work is considered separate from an organization’s broader mission. Though tech’s role is expanding, there’s still a gap between what’s possible and what’s happening on the ground. In this episode of Impact Audio, you’ll hear from two tech veterans in philanthropy: Chantal Forster and Sam Caplan.
Listen in to learn about:
- Technology as a scaling agent, well beyond mere nuts and bolts
- How technologists fit into the future of philanthropy
- What bumble bees can teach us about building a participatory ecosystem
- Tapping into IT’s strategic value
- Chantal’s story, from coding at 8 years old to leading TAG
From personal stories to professional insights, this episode is full of great takeaways (and prescient predictions) for anyone working in grants, philanthropy, or social impact. We hope it's valuable to you.
Chantal E. Forster is the executive director of the Technology Association of Grantmakers (TAG). For over 20 years, Chantal has worked at the nexus of people, data, and technology, leading organizations toward greater collaboration, innovation, and impact. Her career spans the private, public, and social sectors where Chantal has developed a unique ability to build cross-sector technology initiatives that serve the common good. Through her work with TAG, Chantal has become a voice for philanthropic investment in digital infrastructure as well as an advocate for centering philanthropy on the "grantee experience" to address inequity and measurably advance outcomes.
Chantal holds a Masters in Public Policy from the University of Chicago and serves on several nonprofit boards of directors. Chantal resides in Chicago with her husband, Michael, where she is passionate about building resilient, equitable communities, supporting urban arts and culture, and beekeeping.
Sam Caplan is the Vice President of Social Impact at Submittable, a platform that foundations, governments, nonprofits, and other changemakers use to launch, manage, and measure impactful granting and CSR programs. Inspired by the amazing work performed by practitioners of all stripes, Sam strives to help them achieve their missions through better, more effective software.
Sam formerly served as founder of New Spark Strategy, Chief Information Officer at the Walton Family Foundation, and head of technology at the Walmart Foundation. He consults, advises, and writes on social impact technology, strategy, and innovation.
Connect with or follow Sam on Linkedin, listen to his podcast Impact Audio, and subscribe to his bi-weekly newsletter The Review.
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