This discussion guide helps you understand the benefits of focusing your foundation’s giving. It also offers tips for choosing a focus based on consensus, which is a critical step for achieving greater impact. The topics covered in this guide include: Five reasons to define a focus. Focusing with greater ease. Settling on a focus. The... Read More
Small foundations often know the problems and needs in their communities better than most. That is why it can be valuable for foundations to leverage their resources and understanding of local needs to support nonprofit advocacy. But how do you get started? This primer provides you with a wide “comfort zone” for funding advocacy activities,... Read More
Foundations have greater impact if they first consider what they bring to the table and determine which opportunities will enable them to achieve the most with their giving. This discussion guide helps you understand the benefits of knowing your foundation and your field, and offers simple ways to acquire field knowledge. The topics covered in... Read More
Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy (CLIP) is a mindset and practice that empowers lean, place-based foundations to unleash their full potential to spark transformative change on issues prioritized by local communities. By embracing their unique abilities to act quickly, focus persistently, and nurture deep relationships, individuals who embrace CLIP go beyond typical grantmaking and become dynamic... Read More
Understand Your Grantees’ Perspectives Exponent Philanthropy’s Grantee and Applicant Perception Survey (GAPS) offers foundations a way to gather feedback from grantees and applicants on their processes, communication, and impact. The survey includes both multiple-choice and open-ended questions, allowing foundations to assess key areas like responsiveness, clarity, fairness, and collaboration. Multiple-choice questions cover topics such as: ... Read More
This discussion guide offers a simple framework for moving your foundation from having a focus to defining a vision of success and, ultimately, implementing a thoughtful strategy to realize that vision. In this guide, you’ll find information, case studies, and discussion questions that will help your foundation: Develop your strategy. Outline your path to impact.... Read More