AKIRA BARCLAY
Philanthropic Strategist | Founder, Fresh Philanthropy
Akira Barclay is a philanthropic strategist advising high-capacity donors, giving circles, and institutions on how to deploy capital with greater clarity, structure, and impact.
With over 25 years of experience across grantmaking, fundraising, and partnership development, Akira’s work sits at the intersection of strategy and community—helping donors move beyond reactive giving toward intentional, values-aligned philanthropy.
Her expertise includes giving circles, trust-based philanthropy, and guiding individuals and groups in building thoughtful, nontraditional approaches to giving.
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Akira’s talks and workshops are designed for audiences ready to think more strategically about how capital moves and what impact it creates.
Popular topics include:
● From Generosity to Strategy
Structuring philanthropic giving for clarity, alignment, and long-term impact
● The New Era of Giving
How trust-based philanthropy and community-led models are reshaping capital allocation
● Giving Circles as a Strategic Tool
Designing and participating in collective giving models that drive meaningful change
● High-Impact Giving for Emerging Wealth
A framework for individuals, couples, and collectives deploying $50K-$150K+ annually
● Beyond Check Writing
How donors can engage more deeply with the impact they seek to create
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● High-earning professionals (HENRYs)
● Individual donors and couples
● Giving circles and philanthropic collectives
● Foundations and nonprofit leadership
● Institutions exploring modern approaches to philanthropy
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● Panels & moderated conversations
● Keynotes & talks
● Workshops (60–90 minutes or half-day)
● Private sessions for donor groups or organizations
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● AT&T Imagine Your STEM Future (Girl Scouts of the USA)
● Recognized by the White House Council on Women and Girls
● Emerging Leaders International Fellow, CUNY
● Active member, South Side Giving Circle (Chicago Foundation for Women)
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Engagement fees vary based on format, audience, and usage (including recording and distribution rights).
Typical ranges:
● Panels: $1,000+
● Talks/Webinars: $3,000–$8,000
● Workshops: $5,000–$15,000
Clarity, Structure, impact.
For inquiries, please complete the speaker request form or contact: