How do small foundations scan? For starters, they venture into the community, listen to grantees, talk with community leaders and residents, review publications, and commission research and reports. Foundations have the privilege and opportunity to talk with almost anyone in a community. “We try to keep a pulse on the community and learn of things... Read More
Right-sizing means tailoring what you require of grantseekers and grantees to apply for and report on grants so that the requirements are proportionate to the size of grant, appropriate to the type of grant, and reflective of any existing relationship with the grantee. In short, right-sizing considers the notion of net grants, that is, the... Read More
General operating support is valuable for many reasons. It: Allows grantee organizations to focus on fulfilling their missions and building infrastructure, rather than on tackling peripheral projects and additional fundraising Serves as a vote of confidence for nonprofit leaders, helping to decrease burnout Lessens the inherent power imbalance between grantor and grantee, and shifts the... Read More
With so many worthy options, how do foundations choose? The key is to find grantees that are right for your foundation—a match for your goals, your strategies, and your tolerance for risk. Start by taking stock For starters, look in the mirror. Is your foundation clear about its goals? Can you articulate your approach to... Read More
Exponent Philanthropy members tell us multiyear grants offer important benefits: Less grantee time and labor to apply and report on grants Less funder time and labor to review applications and reports Greater security for grantees that allows them to look ahead to longer-term goals and plan accordingly A powerful seal of approval that helps grantees... Read More
Two foundations conducted a survey to ask grantseekers how they viewed the foundations’ grantseeking processes and what suggestions they had to improve them. The foundations sent anonymous surveys to 70 grantee organizations; 33 were returned. Respondents were a highly experienced group: nearly 60% had been in the field 10-plus years and 72% were either executive... Read More