IPA: /ˈfʌndər/
KK: /ˈfʌndər/
A person or organization that provides money for a project or activity.
The funder supported the new community center with a generous donation.
To provide money or resources for a project or organization.
The organization was able to launch its new program thanks to a generous funder.
Past: funded
Past Participle: funded
Funder → It is formed from "fund" (from Old French *fonder*, meaning to establish or set up) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A funder is a person who establishes or provides financial support.
Think of someone who 'establishes' ('fund') support — the '-er' just means a person. A funder is someone who provides financial backing.