In 2023, Bader Philanthropies formed the Bader Leadership Institute (BLI) to build the infrastructure necessary to address Milwaukee’s wicked problems. Through an intensive cohort-based experience, small groups of the region’s most exemplary leaders meet regularly to bridge gaps across sectors and silos and to innovate new ways of engaging in philanthropy. Together, this growing network of Bader Fellows will work to cultivate the conditions for transformational change in Milwaukee.
Each cohort of Bader Fellows will work collectively to solve a specific wicked problem faced by Milwaukee. As a part of this process, Fellows will advise Bader Philanthropies on the distribution of grant funds. The funds awarded through the Bader Leadership Institute grants area represent both the depth of Milwaukee’s problems and our immense diversity of leadership, assets, and problem-solving abilities.