By Ruth Masterson, Exponent Philanthropy
According to Exponent Philanthropy’s recent member survey report, our foundation members often want to learn about “gathering feedback about the foundation from grantees.” This is a smart question to ask. Grantees are donors’ partners; they have information and perspective that is valuable to you as a funder.
The good news is that many funders already listen to their grantees. Almost two-thirds (62%) of Exponent Philanthropy member foundations use information from grantees to inform their grantmaking, and 38% gather feedback from their grantees in a systematic way.
Grantmakers for Effective Organizations has found the same in its research:
Most grantmakers now seek input from their grantees. Where can you start? bit.ly/167w3Fa http://t.co/4Az1Nf1LWA—
GEO (@GEOfunders) February 10, 2015
But not only can it be hard to set aside time to ask and listen, the power dynamic between grantees and funders (wherein grantees want to stay on funders’ good sides) is a powerful one that strongly influences what your grantees may be willing to say.
