Exponent Philanthropy’s Foundation Fundamentals aim to assist you in starting your philanthropic journey with Exponent Philanthropy. Before diving into your grantmaking, there are several questions to consider. How will you operate your foundation? How will you manage your foundation’s assets and investments? What tax and legal issues should you address? Once you have answered these... Read More
Imagine a foundation with $10 million in assets. To meet the 5% distribution requirement, it must allocate $500,000 each year. While foundations take great care in managing their grant distributions, what happens to the remaining $9.5 million? This section will help you understand how foundations manage investments, including who oversees the money and key fiduciary... Read More
Your foundation’s efforts culminate in grantmaking, defining its impact. A solid grantmaking strategy starts with clear goals and requirements for grantees, facilitating grant management and effective funding. Successful grantmaking also requires deeper engagement; understanding nonprofit financials assesses stability, and site visits reveal insights beyond proposals. Building relationships with grantees enhances impact, and knowing advocacy rules... Read More
Good governance isn’t just about best practices—it ensures your foundation follows essential legal and financial rules. This section covers the key regulations every private foundation must follow, helping you navigate the legal landscape while saving time and legal fees. This page starts with the basics: foundation law, IRS requirements, and the 990-PF tax form you’ll... Read More
So, you’re building a foundation board. Now what? A strong board is essential for a well-run foundation, no matter its legal structure. As a board member, you play a crucial role in shaping policies, setting expectations, and ensuring good governance. This page will walk you through everything you need to know—from onboarding new members to... Read More
So you’ve decided to start a foundation. Now what? By choosing to establish a foundation, you’ve committed to making a positive impact in your community. You’ve likely already received valuable legal and financial advice regarding the rules and regulations surrounding foundations, as well as the tax benefits associated with your contributions. However, it’s also important... Read More