Released in April 2016, Exponent Philanthropy’s Grantee and Applicant Perception Survey solicits extensive and anonymous feedback from foundations’ grantees and applicants about working with those foundations. This straightforward and comprehensive new tool is designed to help funders understand what the foundation can do to reinforce existing strengths and improve interactions with grantees and applicants.

The survey represents a new development in the field of grantee perception reports, first developed by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. It has been designed specifically for small-staffed or unstaffed foundations, bearing in mind that personal connection is typically a big factor in their relationships with their grantees. It includes modules for staffed, unstaffed, family, independent, corporate and community foundations.

Results are based on 18 scaled and 7 open-ended questions to assess the foundation’s grantmaking process, programme strategy and operations. Among the questions are: does the foundation clearly and consistently communicate its goals and strategies? Does the foundation demonstrate collaboration with the community? Are the reports required of grantees appropriate to the size of the grant?

An Exponent Philanthropy staff member partners with users to tailor implementation of the survey, analyse results and recommend next steps to the boards and staff of foundations.

The survey is available for purchase as a standalone document or as part of Exponent Philanthropy’s comprehensive Practical Board Self-Assessment.

For more information
http://www.exponentphilanthropy.org/GAPS