Giving Compass' Take:

• Funders and grantees each share five concepts they wish the other knew in order to enhance their relationships. 

• What are the key components in improving funder/grantee relationships? What is the role of power and how are both entities addressing it?

• Read more on tips for funder-grantee relationships. 

Black Fox Philanthropy and Candid (formerly Foundation Center, which recently combined with GuideStar to form a brand new organization) co-hosted a gathering for capacity building partners and NGOs at Opportunity Collaboration last October. Why? We had a burning question for the Funder and NGO attendees that could help clear a path to stronger alliances and greater impact:

“What do you wish each other knew that would make a difference in your relationships, how you do your work in the world, and the impact you are having?”

Funder Perspective: What I wish NGO Grantees or Potential Grantees Knew

  1. Treat Us Like Equals.
  2. Make It A Conversation. 
  3. “No” May Not Mean No Forever.
  4. Define Success Ahead of Time.
  5. Above All ... Be Authentic!

NGO Perspective:  What I wish Funding Partners or Potential Funding Partners Knew

  1. Ask Where Your Funds Are Needed Most.
  2. Fund Overhead. 
  3. Unrestricted Funding Leads to Innovation.
  4. Invest in Leaders, Ideas, and Mentorship.
  5. Think Holistically. 

Read the full article about what grantees and funders wish the other knew by Natalie Rekstad and Michele Dilworth at GuideStar Candid