One of the greatest misconceptions in grantmaking is the notion that some forms of grantmaking are inherently strategic while others are non-strategic.  The Grantmaking School redefines this traditional view by asserting that all grantmaking can be strategic through intentional and thoughtful engagement to achieve results.  Whether you manage a topic-based grant portfolio or guide responsive grants through your foundation, the potential of real impact should not be left to chance.

Advanced Grant Portfolio Management is an intensive two-day learning experience designed to help individual grantmakers and their foundations develop or refine a strategic lens to grantmaking and leverage improved program results and deeper foundation impact.  Beginning with mapping the elements of a theory of change framework, you will use this as a guiding template to build and inform your grantmaking strategy. From there, you and your colleagues will move through a series of individual and group activities, allowing for both interactive and personal reflection throughout the session.

Key concepts include:

• Building and working with a strategic change framework
• The many ways foundation professionals can and should add value to their grantmaking
• Grantmaker techniques and cautions in providing value and ensuring alignment
• The role of strategic communications in ongoing strategy development
• The role of evaluation in strategic grantmaking
• Capacity building: principles, design, and relevance
• Leadership core competencies needed for effective grantmaking

Advanced Grant Portfolio Management is designed for foundation program staff or other grantmaking professionals with three to five years of 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 Grant Portfolio Management 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.