Well, it’s that season again! People are breaking out their checkbooks and making resolutions for the new year. I know it sounds like I’m talking about the holidays, but I am actually talking about the end-of-year technology purchasing season. I have been in the technology industry for most of my career and have always been... Read More
In a time of economic uncertainty, staffing shortages, and growing community needs, funders can offer critical support, not just through dollars, but by streamlining practices. Simplifying grant applications and reporting is one of the most effective ways to reduce the burden on nonprofits and free up their time for mission-driven work. Especially now, every hour spent... Read More
As AI-powered meeting tools become increasingly common, foundations face new questions around privacy and information security. This sample policy from Rooted Philanthropic (approved July 2025) offers a practical, real-world example of how to address these challenges — covering internal meetings, external meetings, and accessibility accommodations. Read More
Not long ago, I was contacted by a young professional interested in exploring a career in grantmaking. She inquired about what books, websites, and blogs I have found most helpful in my position as a program officer, and I offered to compile a short list to send her way. As a new program officer myself—just... Read More
Major cyberattacks seem to take place weekly. In recent years, everything from gas production to meat packing has been vulnerable. As executive director of the Middendorf Foundation, each incident raised my blood pressure. While I knew I needed to protect my organization, I didn’t feel like I had the right tools to do so. As... Read More
For grantmakers, few things are as illuminating as seeing a nonprofit’s work up close. A site visit cuts through the paperwork, brings the work to life in a way no document can, and opens up conversations that simply don’t happen over email. But site visits are also high-stakes moments. They raise expectations, shape relationships, and... Read More