As funders increasingly seek to supply resources beyond financial support to their grantees, many are engaging third-party consultants to provide capacity building assistance. But how can funders know whether these resources are really strengthening grantees? What are some reasonable benchmarks for evaluating this assistance? We at Arbor Brothers are fervent believers in the value of capacity building—so... Read More
Three years ago in Texas, foundations confronted a profound crisis. For decades, funders working on public education have invested tens of millions and countless hours to support the public schools and the millions of students from low-income backgrounds served by those schools. These foundations have long been committed to numerous partnerships with state government. Their... Read More
Some philanthropists decide to operate in the public realm early on. But others go public at some point over time, often when they feel compelled to act. However it emerges, going public can be a pivotal transition point and a bold act of leadership. The Troy Savings Bank Charitable Foundation quietly awarded grants in the area... Read More
Leadership can be defined in literally hundreds of ways. This is why Exponent Philanthropy knows we can’t take an “off the shelf” definition of small foundation leadership. Instead, by taking time to explore leadership in small foundations, Exponent Philanthropy will be better able to validate, nurture, and celebrate it. And, by nurturing leadership, our hope is... Read More