The DAF Revolution: Making a Difference in Our Modern World is the first comprehensive guide to how donor-advised funds (DAFs) are transforming philanthropy. This book received a Bronze Medal in the 2026 Axiom Business Book Awards, recognizing excellence in business publishing. Drawing on insights from more than 120 experts in philanthropy, law, finance, and nonprofit management, author Ted Hart provides a clear and practical roadmap for donors, advisors, and nonprofits to understand, use, and maximize the fastest-growing, most versatile giving vehicle today.
DAFs now outpace private foundations in both assets and annual distributions, reflecting a fundamental shift toward donor-driven giving. This book explains why and how every stakeholder can engage effectively.
Key themes include:
Donor empowerment: pairing tax efficiency with values-driven giving
Advisor strategies: integrating philanthropy into estate, legacy, and financial planning
Nonprofit readiness: unlocking sustainable DAF revenue streams
Global reach: frameworks for vetted giving in 100+ countries
Technology: AI, blockchain, and digital platforms are expanding access and transparency
Future outlook: policy debates, accountability, and next-gen donors
Written for donors, advisors, nonprofit leaders, and DAF sponsors, The DAF Revolution blends legal clarity, case studies, expert commentary, and best practices. It is the essential resource for anyone navigating today’s rapidly evolving world of donor-advised funds.
Praise for The DAF Revolution:
"Donor-advised funds help keep charitable giving flexible and accessible… The DAF Revolution shines a light on why DAFs are the preferred option for millions of donors who want to make an impact, immediately and throughout the year."
— Rebecca Moffett, President, Vanguard Charitable
"Ted does not shy away from tough questions… he offers a framework for advisors, donors, nonprofits, and policymakers to evaluate DAFs thoughtfully. Most importantly, he never loses sight of the human heart of philanthropy."
— Joe Fisher, President & CEO, REN
Ted Hart is a highly respected global philanthropy executive and thought leader who has built and led multi-billion-dollar donor-advised fund programs and national healthcare foundations, delivering regulatory-compliant grants to more than 135 countries.Author of eight books, father of two, Eagle Scout, and host of The Nonprofit Coach: and Everything DAF! podcast, he is recognized for transforming organizations into sustainable, high-performing institutions.
