In a perspective piece in the Spring 2018 issue of the Stanford Social Innovation Review, Elizabeth Good Christopherson, Dietram Scheufele and Brooke Smith propose fostering a culture of civic science as an approach to more effectively address many of society’s challenges. The article points to ways philanthropy can catalyze progress toward this vision, drawing on lessons from science communication scholarship, philanthropy and practice. It also highlights promising examples of emerging work to advance effective science engagement across divisions, including efforts to bring together diverse coalitions, uncover shared values and build trusting relationships.