Community Foundation Tampa Bay Reaches $1B Milestone at 35th Anniversary

Historic milestone reflects Foundation’s community impact and philanthropic efforts, paves way for future

Community Foundation Tampa Bay has achieved its $1 billion milestone of philanthropic funds committed to the future of Tampa Bay. This accomplishment coincides with the organization’s 35th anniversary and marks a pivotal moment in its support of the Tampa Bay region.

Since its founding in 1990, Community Foundation Tampa Bay has grown from a single donation of $100 to now stewarding $1 billion in charitable funds across the community through nonprofits, donor-advised funds, grants and other philanthropic channels. It's now the largest community foundation in Florida and one of the largest in the country.

Marlene Spalten joined Community Foundation Tampa Bay in 2012 as its third president and CEO when the organization held $140 million in assets. Under her strategic leadership and passion for community impact, the Foundation has experienced remarkable growth and expanded its impact across Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties.

“This achievement is only possible because of the thousands of people who have helped us along the way,” said Spalten. “Whether you're a fundholder or nonprofit, everyone should celebrate this special moment as it speaks to the generosity of our community. This is only the beginning of what we plan to achieve.”

As Tampa Bay has emerged as one of Florida’s fastest-growing metro areas, the Foundation has grown in tandem with the area’s booming economy and business community. According to Tampa Bay Economic Development Council's 2023 Report, Tampa Bay has added more than 250,000 jobs, seen double-digit growth in household income and consistently ranked among the top U.S. metros for small business and startup activity. Community Foundation Tampa Bay has become a trusted philanthropic partner for many of the region’s leading companies and executives – helping turn success into long-term impact.

“At Community Foundation Tampa Bay, we’re committed to meeting the growing needs of our region by supporting local nonprofits today and helping them plan for tomorrow through sustainable endowments," said Spalten. "We also empower our fundholders to give in ways that are both innovative and deeply personal—opening new doors for generosity and creating lasting impact across our community.”

The Foundation currently manages more than 1,200 charitable funds and 129 family foundations. In 2024 alone, Community Foundation Tampa Bay provided over $32 million in grants to 1,231 nonprofits, bringing the organization’s total grantmaking since its inception to over $450 million. This year, that number is predicted to increase to support more nonprofit projects and initiatives.

Enterprising Latinas, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting economic mobility among women, is one of the many nonprofits the Foundation has supported through grants and partnership.

“Funding from Community Foundation Tampa Bay has been absolutely critical to our work at Enterprising Latinas. If it had not been for their support early on, we wouldn’t have been able to grow to where we are now,” said Lisa Gutierrez, CEO of Enterprising Latinas. “The Foundation supports our Wimauma Opportunity Center, entrepreneurship program and workforce development activities, which are a core component of the work we do.”

As the Foundation celebrates its $1 billion milestone and 35 years of impact, its focus remains firmly on the future. With growing challenges tied to affordability, education and opportunity, Community Foundation Tampa Bay is committed to shaping a more vibrant, equitable region – building a legacy that lasts.

“This is not a finish line; it’s a foundation for what’s next,” said Spalten. “We’re honored to be part of Tampa Bay’s history and even more excited about the impact we can make in the years ahead.”

To learn more or to get involved in shaping Tampa Bay’s next chapter, visit cftampabay.org.

About Community Foundation Tampa Bay

Community Foundation Tampa Bay is the leading philanthropic investor in Tampa Bay. Founded in 1990, Community Foundation Tampa Bay connects philanthropists, nonprofits, business and community leaders for fundamental change in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. Over the past 35 years, Community Foundation Tampa Bay and its donors have fostered collaboration, sought creative solutions and invested more than $450 million in nonprofit organizations to help our community thrive. Learn more at CFTampaBay.org.

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“Whether you're a fundholder or nonprofit, everyone should celebrate this special moment as it speaks to the generosity of our community. This is only the beginning of what we plan to achieve.”