What are some key elements of a grantmaking strategy? A mission statement, which is informed by the donor’s intent and objectives A statement of purpose, defined by program interests, geographic focus, grantmaking style A process for accepting, reviewing, and awarding grants A set of guidelines that inform the grantseeking community about what the foundation does... Read More
Two foundations conducted a survey to ask grantseekers how they viewed the foundations’ grantseeking processes and what suggestions they had to improve them. The foundations sent anonymous surveys to 70 grantee organizations; 33 were returned. Respondents were a highly experienced group: nearly 60% had been in the field 10-plus years and 72% were either executive... Read More
General operating support is valuable for many reasons. It: Allows grantee organizations to focus on fulfilling their missions and building infrastructure, rather than on tackling peripheral projects and additional fundraising Serves as a vote of confidence for nonprofit leaders, helping to decrease burnout Lessens the inherent power imbalance between grantor and grantee, and shifts the... Read More
Before his death in 1999, Harold Edelstein identified his charitable goals: aiding hungry and homeless people, and contributing to population control. Rather than funding bricks and mortar, he sought to build lives by directly and immediately impacting needy people. “We attempt to fill niches with direct grants to organizations which they otherwise wouldn’t have,” says... Read More
Through two separate grants to the Florida Audubon Society, the Conservation, Food & Health Foundation (CFHF) of Boston supported the work of distinguished sea turtle researcher and conservationist Dr. Peter Pritchard to protect a critical sea turtle nesting beach on the northwest coast of Guyana in South America. Despite 30 years of efforts and the... Read More
What follows are ways in which Exponent Philanthropy members are making the most of their foundations. Is one of these strategies right for you? Fill important gaps As you review proposals, have conversations with community leaders, and participate in the community as volunteers, parents, employers, or employees, keep an eye out for crucial gaps that... Read More