Grantmaking Policies

Oftentimes, grantmakers can rely on the rules applicable to private foundations or even their state’s nonprofit corporation law when seeking answers to thorny grantmaking questions. But what should a charity do when both the tax code and state statutes are silent on the matter? In such an instance, it is important that your foundation craft grantmaking policies to address these unanswered areas. From donor-initiated fundraising to granting to government to the types of gifts you accept, this section can help.

In-Depth knowledge on Grantmaking Policies

The grantmaking application process is a big lift for foundations and nonprofits, alike. This primer takes a look at streamlining the application process from RFP to grant agreement. Found in the guide is a how to on creating RFPs, questions to ask during the grant application review, sample acceptance letter, sample declination letter, and a sample grant agreement. Highlighted here, you will also find an innovative example a group of funders from New Mexico (SHARE New Mexico) took in reevaluating their long standing grantmaking application process and the steps they took in creating and implementing a common application. Finally, we invite you to explore the resources and tools available through GMN's Project Streamline initiative, an effort to assist funders in right-sizing application and reporting requirements, reducing the burden on grantseekers, and seeking feedback to improve grantmaking practices.

It helps to think of grantmaking strategies along a continuum and to choose different approaches at different times, depending on the results you want to achieve. This resource will present some of the most common grantmaking strategies— what they are, how they are used, and what questions you and your colleagues want answered.