Grantmaking 101 (Virtual)

Informing the Context for Philanthropic Work

Grantmaking 101 is typically a two-day in-person course that helps staff and board members new to philanthropy better understand the sector. To better accomodate staff who are unable to attend in person, this Fall 2025 course will take place virtually over four half days.

This interactive course will present a historical overview of philanthropy, review a foundation's leadership and governance structure, provide an overview of grantmaking practices, explore the various roles within philanthropy, and touch on emerging trends.

Learning Objectives

• The Purpose of Philanthropy: Understand the history of philanthropy and the national and local infrastructure supporting it. Learn how funding practices are related to foundation type,  when it was created, and its funding goals.
• The Practice of Philanthropy: Learn effective grant management processes, including accepting proposals, reviewing proposals, making decisions, managing grants, and measuring success.
• The People of Philanthropy: Review a foundation's leadership and governance. Understand how to develop fruitful relationships with stakeholders.

This is a virtual workshop that will take place over the course of four days:

• October 7 | 8:30 am - 12:30 pm ET
• October 9 | 8:30 am - 12:30 pm ET
• October 14 | 8:30 am - 12:30 pm ET
• October 16 | 8:30 am - 12:30 pm ET

Looking for the in-person workshop? Register here for the April 22-23 workshop in Indianapolis.