Just as every philanthropist has unique aspirations, every philanthropist will have a different definition of success. Knowing what you are trying to achieve is essential to getting results, and it’s a deceptively difficult process. The complexity of the problems means there are many paths to choose from.
What is a successful outcome?
Defining success involves translating your aspirations into the specific outcomes that you want to see achieved. Who do you want to help? Where, geographically, will you focus? How long are you willing to wait for results? What, exactly, are you trying to achieve?
Do I understand the situation thoroughly?
To get the most out of your investment, do your homework. Who else is working here? What seems to be working? What isn't?
Is success feasible?
What will it take—really—to reach my goal? How much have other funders spent on similar initiatives, and what kind of results have they gotten?
Case Studies
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The Bridgespan Group
With an innovative sabbatical program for nonprofit leaders, Carrie Avery is translating her grandfather’s values into the third generation of family involvement with Durfee
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The Bridgespan Group
What is the best way to tackle corruption? With ProPublica, the Sandler Foundation has revived a time-tested tactic that is proving as effective as ever.
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The Bridgespan Group
Philanthropist Jeff Walker began with a desire to help nonprofits struggling with technology, discovered that a nonprofit with a similar mission already existed, and built it into a thriving national network.
Philanthropy Roundtable
Houston entrepreneur Michael Holthouse invented a concept to teach entrepreneurship to kids: Lemonade Day, on which millions of kids nationwide set up lemonade stands and learn the basics of business.
Articles
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The Bridgespan Group
Attempting to fly solo and neglecting a nonprofit are just two of the common mistakes smart philanthropists make. Be sure you avoid these common pitfalls.
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The Bridgespan Group
Our giving structure guide walks you through the personal, technical, and strategic considerations you may have when deciding which structure to employ. (Note: does not offer legal advice.)
Deeper Dives
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GrantCraft
Grantmakers should use theories of change to guide questioning, unearth assumptions, develop action plans, and evaluate results.
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Philanthropy411 Blog
Tools and guides for developing a theory of change that is "plausible, doable, testable, and meaningful."
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Stanford Social Innovation Review
Improving lives requires articulating proven theories of change. Yet some organizations refuse to do so, and some funders think it too intrusive to demand it. (Subscription required)
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Harvard Business Review
During the past two decades, the number of charitable foundations in the United States has doubled while the value of their assets has increased more than 1,100%. As new wealth continues to pour into foundations, the authors take a timely look at the field and conclude that radical change is needed. (Purchase required)