Because few documents are available to evaluate start-ups, site visits and interviews often are critical in evaluating a grant proposal from a start-up. As you talk to key individuals in the organization, you want to determine whether they have an adequate understanding of the project, and the tools and resources required to succeed. On a... Read More
It is always a good policy to have a grant agreement with grant recipients—not for when the grant goes well but, rather, for when it does not. With a grant agreement in place, it is easier to monitor a grant for performance according to the application, to see if anticipated outcomes are achieved, and to... Read More
Although travel costs may prohibit international site visits, many alternatives exist that make due diligence and grant tracking affordable and effective. Intermediary organizations, which are U.S.-based public charities with contacts abroad, focus on providing domestic donors with photos, videos, and electronic reports that keep them in the know from across the globe. Peer funders also... Read More
A well-written annual report shares your work, encourages others to set up foundations or increase their giving, helps suitable applicants find you, and helps the public and lawmakers learn about the foundation—and see that it is a responsible and accountable organization. Annual reports often include: Year and name of the foundation A brief history of... Read More
Discretionary grantmaking is the practice of allowing board members and, in some cases, committee members, family members, or staff to direct a portion of grantmaking dollars to organizations of their choice. Foundations use discretionary grants in a variety of ways and for many reasons. Read considerations when creating a discretionary grantmaking policy >> Read additional... Read More
A mission statement is a short, written declaration about why you are engaging in philanthropy or, if your giving structure is a foundation, why the foundation exists. Mission statements are powerful because they are heartfelt, simple, and easily communicated. A mission can help you: Make the best use of your resources by focusing grants and activity on... Read More