Exponent Philanthropy recommends all foundations create a clear travel and expense reimbursement policy that achieves the following: Advises trustees and staff to choose cost-effective travel options. The law requires that these expenses not be “lavish or extravagant.” Describes the activities for which related travel may be reimbursed and any limits on quantity of travel per... Read More
Foundation board members are expected to: Set and adjust the direction for the foundation: its mission and goals. Establish principles, policies, and procedures that govern the foundation’s operation and advance its mission. Oversee the foundation to ensure that it operates effectively and efficiently in support of the mission, and that it complies with legal rules.... Read More
Yes, your Exponent Philanthropy membership dues can count as a qualifying distribution for your foundation. They are considered an administrative expense that supports your foundation’s charitable work. We recommend treating the dues as an administrative expense rather than a grant. When a foundation makes a grant, it cannot receive any benefits in return. If you... Read More
Terms To Know Assets represent what the nonprofit owns. Current assets are the sum of all assets that the nonprofit could convert to cash in less than one year. This includes cash and cash equivalents or accounts receivable. Long-term assets are the sum of all other assets, such as property, long-term certificates of deposit, or... Read More
Grants Management Initial Questions The first step toward determining if your foundation will benefit from a grants management system requires discussing your priorities and parameters: What does your foundation want to track? Exponent Philanthropy members tend to track some or all of the following: Contact information for grant applicants and recipients (organizational and individual) Basic... Read More
Board policies work alongside a foundation’s bylaws or trust document to shape its structure. While bylaws or trust documents are legally binding and grounded in state law, policies are also binding but easier to amend. Written policies help the board meet legal duties and set clear expectations for members and staff. The number and type... Read More