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? Check out our primer Funding and Engaging in Advocacy: Opportunities for Small-Staffed Foundations. Read More
See our Sample Document Emergency Succession Plan. This is a plan for contingencies due to the disability, death or departure of the Executive Director. Read More
Good succession plans come out of thinking, planning, and conversations to clarify roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Here are some sample conversation-starters: Are we structured with the future in mind? Do we attend to future needs for leadership, growth, and opportunity? Do we have term limits for staff or board? What are the benefits and costs... Read More
New staff members can offer your foundation an opportunity to deepen its capacity, broaden its perspective, and increase its impact. In this Hiring Great Staff primer, you’ll find an overview of the issues a foundation should weigh at each step of the hiring process. These steps include: Recruiting Interviewing Setting compensation Hiring New employee orientation... Read More
These days, impact investing or mission-aligned investing are hot topics, but to many it’s not always clear how to get started. We suggest taking a look at mission-aligned investment opportunities in your own backyard: investing in Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and supporting a local social enterprise. CDFIs are private financial institutions with a 100%... Read More
Members named the following as great resources for foundations to have an impact with grantmaking: Twenty Ways to Make a Difference: Stories from Small Foundations Beyond dollars, small foundations hold unique assets that benefit your mission, program focus, or community. These include: Deep knowledge of community needs Ability to focus over time Ability to act... Read More