All grantmakers were trained to do something else before entering the field of philanthropy.  There are no degrees, pre-requisite training, or certifications that demonstrate competence and skill at carrying out this important role.  Even experienced grantmakers continue to be plagued by the uneven results of learning by trial and error.

Prepared or not, the grantmaker role is complex and presents a distinctive set of constantly changing variables and issues.  Grantmakers also have the daunting responsibility to guide precious charitable dollars into the hands of nonprofit organizations.

The Grantmaking School recognizes that for most grantmakers, working with applicants and proposals is the bread and butter of their career and how they spend much of their time.  In response, Advanced Proposal Analysis intentionally focuses on the essential skills of proposal review, recommendations, project management, and other core competency areas.  We strongly believe that mastering this work is the key to excellence in grantmaking.

Key concepts include:

• Assessing proposals more efficiently
• Spotting financial red flags
• Finding-and closing-any gaps in your due diligence process
• Using specialty grants within your organization's mission
• Assuring transparent and ethical behavior
• Grantee relationship management
• Capturing the knowledge from grantmaking

The Advanced Proposal Analysis course is specifically designed for foundation professionals with two to five years of grantmaking experience.  Classroom size is limited to 30 participants, allowing for deeper engagement and discussion with both colleagues and faculty members.

Our faculty members represent some of the most experienced program officers and foundation executives in the field of philanthropy.  Their organization experience and knowledge crosses private, community and family foundation models.

Tuition and Scholarships:

Tuition for Advanced Proposal Analysis is $1295, exclusive of travel and lodging. Alumni of The Grantmaking School receive a $250 discount.

Scholarships are available for qualifying organizations. Members of Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy (EPIP) are eligible for a discount.