Uncertainty is nothing new in philanthropy, but in times of rapid change—like those we’ve experienced in recent months—it can be challenging to determine the best response. Through our work in reproductive justice and democracy, the Leland Fikes Foundation has gained key insights into funding in turbulent times. When policies shift or crises arise, philanthropy must... Read More
Grantmaking Strategy: Maximizing Your Foundation’s Impact Grantmaking is the culmination of your foundation’s efforts and defines its impact. A strong grantmaking strategy starts with clear goals and well-structured requirements for grantees, making grant management smoother and funding more effective. However, successful grantmaking goes beyond just distributing funds—it involves deeper engagement. Understanding nonprofit financials helps assess... Read More
Identifying effective nonprofits begins with clarity about your goals and values. As a donor, focusing on the impact you want to achieve can help you find organizations that align with your mission. By honing in on your priorities, you can support nonprofits that share your vision and help them advance the work you care about... Read More
For foundations and nonprofits alike, the grant application process can be a time-consuming hurdle. Nonprofits often dedicate significant resources to crafting applications, while foundations juggle evaluating numerous proposals, many of which may not align with their goals. A well-designed application process ensures your foundation receives the information it needs while respecting applicants’ time and resources.... Read More
Capacity-building grants have long been a staple in philanthropy, designed to help nonprofits improve effectiveness and sustainability. These grants usually focus on strengthening infrastructure, skills, and systems to support an organization’s mission. However, recent critiques suggest the traditional framework needs a significant overhaul, especially to better serve Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-led nonprofits.... Read More
When disaster strikes, it can be overwhelming to know how best to help. As a funder, you want to ensure that your contributions make a real difference in both the short and long term. Experts and experience have shown that the most effective grantmaking in disaster situations follows four key principles—Connect, Collaborate, Consider, and Communicate.... Read More