A Call to Action: Organizing to Increase the Effectiveness
and Impact of Foundation Grantmaking

by Rick Cohen

Many nonprofit organizations all over the country are constantly struggling to find enough resources to make their organizations more effective and sustainable. A Call to Action: Organizing to Increase the Effectiveness and Impact of Foundation Grantmaking illustrates how the lack of core operating support is at the center of that struggle. Despite a number of attempts by the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy (NCRP) and other individuals and organizations to address this challenge, traditional grantmaking practices continue to be highly restrictive and program-driven. 

This report is a call to action and organizing for change. Nonprofit and philanthropic communities must recognize their role in transforming foundation giving strategies, which could dramatically improve their ability to meet the needs of their constituencies.  It’s time for nonprofits and their foundation sector allies to bring their hopes for the future to the doorstep of grantmaking institutions and philanthropic trade associations.

A Call to Action: Organizing to Increase the Effectiveness and Impact of Foundation Grantmaking reflects the voices from the field; and it tells of the needs and aspirations of nonprofits by enabling them to share their stories. The report features commentary from representatives from more than 120 nonprofits in Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico and Washington.

NCRP would like to hear your suggestions on how we can make the case for more flexible and responsive foundation granmtaking practices. Visit NCRP’s blog, send us an email at readers@ncrp.org, or give us a call at 202.387.9177.

Download A Call to Action (PDF) | Order hard copy today ($10)

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