The GuideStar Basic Search is an easy way to access a foundation’s three most recent tax returns. You can request copies from those or other years by using IRS Form 4506-A. Read More
Site visits are a living, breathing grant proposal. These visits give you the chance to connect directly with the organization’s board and staff, discover things that can’t be learned from a written proposal, and clarify information that is important to you. Our publication With Your Own Eyes: Using Site Visits to Make Better Grants and... Read More
Our Foundation Guidebook and Foundations 101 Virtual Seminar Series are ideal for those new to philanthropy or looking for a refresher on foundation operations and effective grantmaking. You can also explore practical advice and insights from peers: 5 Tips for New Foundation Staff: Quick guidance for getting started. A Program Officer’s Go-To Resources: Favorite tools and... Read More
When disasters strike and emergencies occur, board members often feel the urge to respond to suffering or environmental damage. Having a clear policy helps your foundation act effectively during these situations and minimizes the impact of future disasters. Resources to Guide Your Policymaking: Disaster Grantmaking Strategies Disaster Grantmaking Principles and Considerations Disaster and Emergency Response... Read More
It is generally more trouble than it is worth to change the state of incorporation. Doing so requires creating a new corporation in the next state, obtaining a new tax exemption for it, and then following complex rules to close down the old foundation. If you are incorporated in one state but begin to have... Read More
You are wise to want to get up to speed on your foundation’s investment goals and strategies. Even though your foundation may have enlisted trusted financial advisors or skilled board members to manage the foundation’s investments, you cannot rely on the experts alone. As fiduciaries, foundation trustees are stewards of someone else’s money—in this case the... Read More