Originally posted to GrantCraft’s blog “It must be so fun to give money away!” It’s a reaction we’ve all heard when we tell people we are staff members or board members of a grantmaking organization. And yes, it is fun…but it’s also hard work. Good grantmaking – as we know – is about far more... Read More
This post originally appeared on the GrantCraft by Candid blog. Exponent Philanthropy is on a journey to understand, embrace, and champion equity, and we are embedding it in our programmatic and research efforts. Much of our 2020 Foundation Operations and Management Report centered around exploring how racial equity relates to good grantmaking and governance practices. The relevance... Read More
In a recent conversation, I found myself wrestling with a familiar question: How do we encourage funding for the arts during times of crisis, as people are struggling to meet basic needs like food, shelter, and physical and mental health? It’s a valid consideration. Just before the coronavirus hit, I questioned myself and my own... Read More
Advancing racial equity requires doing our own work as funders. All lean funders should embrace this set of fundamental practices. Some funders have begun. These actions complement a continual journey of learning about systemic racism. Exponent’s community can support and guide you along the way. Eliminate barriers to entry. Don’t impose minimum organizational size or... Read More
The headline of an April 27, 2020 article in the San Francisco Chronicle read: Coronavirus and the law: California suspends bar exam this summer Taking the bar exam is like childbirth. A grueling multi-day process with pain and trauma that you somehow forget on a day to day basis, but upon mention of the activity,... Read More
Philanthropy doesn’t stand still. Pressing issues and seismic political, economic, and technological shifts move us to regularly revisit and renew how we work. Urgency, passion, inquisitiveness, and a desire to engage is driving a number of lean funders (those with few or no staff) to center their giving around authentic relationships with grantees and members... Read More