Grantmaking Strategy & Tools

Successful foundation-grantee relationships hinge on the prowess of individual program officers, whose abilities may vary widely within a single foundation. This research explores what grantees value in their relationships with program officers and identifies four keys to success. Five high-performing program officers share their stories.

What separates more strategic foundation leaders from less strategic ones? This research explores the state of strategy at foundations today and identifies behaviors and practices common to more strategic leaders. Case studies and interviews included in the report highlight strategic best practices.

When it comes to funder collaboratives, is the whole truly greater than the sum of its parts? Can foundations make a bigger impact with grant dollars by working together than by going it alone? Yes, grantmakers say, as long as members define their goals, set clear operational guidelines, and work from the start to make the collaborative function well for grantees. In this guide, contributors share strategies for structuring a collaborative to fit its purpose, building strong relationships and resolving conflicts, and figuring out if the collaborative you're in is working. Contributors also...

In 2002, Arizona’s Flinn Foundation began implementing a strategy that focused on boosting its state’s bioscience economy and relied heavily on building collaborative partnerships. Since that time, Arizona has had dramatic increases in jobs, research funding, businesses, and wages within the bioscience sector. This case study illustrates the benefits of taking a strategic approach to maximize a foundation’s impact. It describes how Flinn’s leaders narrowed the Foundation’s focus and assessed its performance.