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The Foundation Data Dilemma: On Making and Measuring Change
Since attending and presenting at Exponent Philanthropy’s 2023 Annual Conference in October, I’ve spent some time reflecting on how foundations and non-profits relate to one another and engage in social change. In particular, I’ve been thinking about the challenges grant-makers experience in understanding and demonstrating the ‘difference’ they make. In my own session and in... Read More
Bringing People Together: How Convening Can Make a Big Difference
Have you ever wondered how getting a bunch of people in one room or space could be a game-changer? Well, convening folks with a common goal is powerful. Given their freedom and flexibility to make things happen fast, lean funders are excellent conveners. Yet, many consider this straightforward tool a funder’s most underrated. The Power... Read More
Legal Basics: 5 Strategies for Keeping Trustees on the High Road
Your board is responsible for ensuring adherence to legal standards and ethical norms. Trustees must ensure that the foundation follows its articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policies, complies with federal and state requirements, and holds to its purpose to serve the public good. The board also serves as the foundation’s moral compass, protecting it from... Read More
Foundation Recordkeeping: A Quick Guide
Without a doubt, giving plenty of time and thought to your foundation’s recordkeeping system will pay off in the long run. In general, you should keep most foundation files of any significance for a minimum of 3 years. However, this can add up to a lot of paper! For one thing, if space is a... Read More
How Funders Can Better Equip Grassroots Nonprofits to Diversify Their Revenue
A full version of this post originally appeared on Resilia’s company blog. Most funders already understand the importance of supporting nonprofits with capacity-building resources “beyond the grant” to help them achieve their mission. But where do you begin as a funder with many areas to focus on? One clear area of focus is fundraising. While... Read More
Making a Significant Shift in Funding Priorities
On a cold day in February 2015 at a board retreat on the coast of Maine, the board of directors of the Emanuel and Pauline A. Lerner Foundation made a big decision. After five years of funding nonprofits in Maine focused on civic engagement, cultural tolerance, and women and children, the board decided to take... Read More