gap between org needs & grantmaker practices, says survey

A new survey of staffed foundations commissioned by Grantmakers for Effective Organizations, "Grantmaking Getting Smarter: A National Study of Philanthropic Practice" (16 pages, PDF), builds on a similar study conducted in 2003 by the Urban Institute in partnership with Grantmakers for Effective Organizations. According to the new report, many grantmakers have not adopted practices that they admit are important for effective grantmaking. Asked in prior interviews and focus groups which practices best help nonprofits achieve results, grantmakers and nonprofits agreed on two priority areas: improving the type of financial support grantmakers provide, such as giving more general operating support and more multiyear support; and working in a supportive and respectful relationship with grantees. To read the full report, you must register on the Grantmakers for Effective Organizations web site.