Ignaz Forstmeier: Three Top Tips for new Founders Pledge members

When you decide to make a pledge with Founders Pledge, you’re not only committing to making the highest impact with your own giving - you’re joining a global movement of like-minded founders.

As a pledger, you automatically become part of our member community, where you can access exclusive in-person and online member events, retreats and networking opportunities. At our community events, you not only get to hear updates from the Founders Pledge team, but also from other members sharing their own journeys and experiences.

In our New Member Pledge Class in March, Ignaz (Iggy) Forstmeier, Co-Founder and ex-CMO of Personio and Founders Pledge member since 2019, shared his own insights with new members, as well as his top three tips for new members who are starting their philanthropic journey.

Tip One: Start Early

Thinking ahead financially is key, even if your liquidity event is far in the future. Iggy advised setting aside a meaningful amount early on, something significant enough to be valuable but not so much that it disrupts your daily life.

"When it comes to giving, don’t throw money away like you would on an impulse buy," he said, "but set aside an amount that makes a difference in the long run."

Tip Two: Identify What You Truly Care About

When there are so many causes in the world that we see everyday in the media, it’s easy to start there - but Iggy advised to take the bigger picture in your own life into perspective first.

“Before making impactful decisions, start by thinking on a high level about the change you genuinely want to see in the world. Instead of being swayed by individual stories in the media, reflect on the broader issues that matter most to you. Do you care deeply about poverty? Animal welfare? The environment? By answering these fundamental questions about your values, it becomes much easier to find meaningful ways to contribute.”

Tip Three: Unlock the heart of giving

After forming a giving strategy, it’s crucial to take the next step and engage deeply with the causes you support. Iggy admitted that early on, he was highly rational about his giving but overlooked the emotional connection.

"One mistake I made was being very strategic about my giving, but I skipped the final step—getting to know the people behind the charity, understanding what they’re struggling with, and hearing their stories first hand. Without that, giving can feel like investing in an ETF rather than backing a startup you truly believe in."

To stay connected and truly appreciate the impact of your contributions, Iggy encouraged members to learn about the stories behind charities, their founders, and the real challenges they face. This approach helps bring purpose back into giving, transforming it from a transaction into a meaningful relationship with those driving change in the world.

Maximise your Impact by Connecting with Community

As a Founders Pledge member for over six years, Iggy also highlighted the numerous opportunities that come with membership (which is free when you become a pledger). Whether it’s through leadership roles, networking, or personal development, he highlighted that new members would gain invaluable skills and experiences not only for their businesses, but for themselves on a personal level.

"When I first joined, I was eager but uncertain. Over time, through mentorship, friendships, and countless opportunities, I found my voice.

[The Founders Pledge community] taught me leadership, resilience, and the true meaning of service. The experiences I’ve had here have shaped not just my time in this group, but who I am as a person. To all of you beginning this journey: embrace every challenge, step outside your comfort zone, and lean on the incredible people around you. You’ll be amazed at how far you’ll go."