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philanthropy that gets results
What Are My Values and Beliefs?
What Is "Success" & How Can It Be Achieved?
What Am I Accountable For?
What Will It Take To Get The Job Done?
How Do I Work With Grantees?
Am I Getting Better?
Donor Decision Tool: How to Research a Nonprofit
What is the best way to research a nonprofit organization you’re considering funding? The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including how much you already know about the organization, the size of your grant, and its importance to the nonprofit, among other things. You will want to balance the extent of your effort with respect for the busy leaders of these organizations. To get started, just answer the questions below. We’ll recommend a tailored research plan based on your responses.
How large and/or critical to your strategy would this grant be?
Very large/critical
Moderate
Small/not critical
Do you believe that your potential support is very important for this nonprofit?
Yes, it's critical
It's somewhat important
No, it's helpful, but not critical
Is this grant potentially controversial in any way?
Yes
Maybe
Not at all
To what extent do you have particular questions regarding the organization’s:
- Strategy & Results
Significant questions
Unsure
No particular questions
- Leadership
Significant questions
Unsure
No particular questions
- Financials
Significant questions
Unsure
No particular questions
- Organization & Operations
Significant questions
Unsure
No particular questions
Do you believe an in-person site visit is critical before making this grant?
Yes
Unsure
No
Do you believe meeting with the organization's leader is critical before making this grant?
Yes
Unsure
No
Do you believe interviewing a member of the board is critical before making this grant?
Yes
Unsure
No
-A
A
A+
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