Data. Insights. Understanding.

Mission Statement

The DAF Research Collaborative (DAFRC) conducts empirical research that enhances the public understanding of donor advised funds (DAFs).

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About the DAFRC

 The DAFRC was founded in 2018 by Dr. H. Daniel Heist at Brigham Young University and Dr. Danielle Vance-McMullen at DePaul University.

The DAFRC partners with academic scholars, industry experts, and philanthropic practitioners to serve as the leader of varied and extensive DAF research.

The DAFRC values objectivity and transparency and makes all of its reports publicly available.

Featured Publications

  • The Annual DAF Report 2025

  • The National Survey of Donor Advised Funds

  • Reinventing the Cycle: Adapting Relationship Fundraising for Donors Who Use DAFs

Ongoing DAF Research

Financial Advisors

A study of when, how, and why financial advisors recommended DAFs to their clients.

Recurring/Repeat Giving and DAFs

An investigation into patterns of ongoing and repeated contributions made through DAFs.

Fundraisers’ Roles when Working with Donors Who Use DAFs

A breakdown of five distinct roles that fundraisers take on when supporting donors who use DAFs.