Who We Are
As a chief joy strategist Chantias is a catalyst, convener, and connector
Meet Chantias Ford
Founder & CEO
Chantias Ford is an impactful joy strategist and philanthropy field leader with over a decade of leadership in the social impact field.
She has an extensive background in strategic philanthropy programming, equitable grantmaking, consultation, evaluation, data management and analysis, education, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Her most recent roles included being the Director of Programs and Strategic Learning at the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project, and prior the Programs and Knowledge Director at PEAK Grantmaking. Previously, she held roles as a program officer at a family foundation, a philanthropy evaluator at an evaluation firm, and a strategic consultant working with various foundations.
As a thought leader and field catalyst she has spoken at hundreds of engagements (with executive boards, foundation teams, grantmakers, and grantees) and dozens of philanthropy conferences, including GEO, PEAK Grantmaking, Exponent, United Philanthropy Forum, CHANGE Philanthropy, Technology Association of Grantmakers, and EPIP- including keynote mainstages and major workshops and intensives. She has contributed to prominent field publications including Candid, SSIR, and Center for Effective Philanthropy. She’s been a guest on various social sector podcasts including BEYOND Philanthropy, Grants4Good, AI Imperative, and Nonprofits State of Mind.
She’s done partnership work with the numerous philanthropy associations, philanthropy technology vendors, and philanthropy consultants. Throughout her career, she has touched audiences of thousands of philanthropic professionals, educating, facilitating, and activating funders to be more equitable, transparent, relational, efficient, and impactful.
In a volunteer capacity, she has served on executive boards, been a community of practice chair, a mentor, and a participant in various giving circles, including the New Generation of African American Philanthropists currently.
She holds a Bachelors in Urban Studies (Honors) from the University of Pennsylvania and a Masters of Education in Learning, Diversity, and Urban Studies from Vanderbilt University.
She is passionate about using philanthropy and the social sector to build equitable spaces and enhance justice. She is a people-centered leader who brings a strong balance of joy and warmth, with rigor and excellence.
