The Grantmaking School offers the first university-based, practitioner-led curriculum specifically for experienced grantmakers.

The work of grantmaking professionals is absolutely essential to effective philanthropy. They are the interface between applicants and grantees on the outside of the foundation, and the executive staff and boards of trustees on the inside. Recommendations made by grantmaking professionals shape the selection, management, and ultimately, the societal impact of projects funded by their foundations. It is through them that foundations learn most of their lessons and achieve their potential for good.

Given the central role played by grantmaking professionals, the vital interests of both foundations and society are best served when these players have the capacity to perform their work at the highest possible level.

We see both a need and an opportunity for advanced education of foundation grantmaking professionals. With a practical curriculum designed to build the essential skills of experienced grantmakers, The Grantmaking School of the Johnson Center for Philanthropy has been designed to improve the practice of philanthropy through research-based education.

The Grantmaking School seeks to help build a rich culture of ongoing learning and continuous improvement in the grantmaking field, and to ultimately improve the practice of philanthropy for all.