Foundations across the philanthropic sector are increasingly embracing models of flexible and responsive grantmaking to better support grantees and maximize impact. This shift reflects a commitment to reduce administrative burden on grantees, provide resources that align with real-time grantee needs, and shift decision-making closer to the communities their grantees serve. To better understand how this Read More
Data is one of the most important philanthropic resources for foundations. It fuels insights, informs learning, and shapes strategic grantmaking decisions. From funding recommendations to payment accuracy to impact measurement, data underpins every aspect of effective grantmaking. But to truly serve these purposes, data must be responsibly managed and, above all, high-quality. Read More
Last month, nearly 200 grantmakers from across the globe gathered in Portland, OR for GDConnect 2025, our annual user conference and the first since GivingData joined forces with Foundant and SmartSimple. The energy was electric as we came together to explore the future of philanthropy, share best practices, and deepen connections across our growing community. Read More
In today’s philanthropic landscape, uncertainty is a constant. Whether it’s economic volatility, shifting community needs, or unforeseen challenges faced by grantees, grantmakers must be prepared to navigate risk thoughtfully and proactively. Risk management isn’t just a financial safeguard, it’s a strategic tool that can enhance impact, build trust, and strengthen relationships with grantees. Read More
GivingData’s approach to building software for grantmakers is driven by values of empathy, collaboration, and a deep respect for the work that this community does every day. We don’t simply build features. We co-create them with the foundations we serve. Read More
As foundations increasingly rely on data to guide decisions, it’s becoming clear that standard reporting tools often fall short. Funders are turning to their grants management systems (GMS) and often integrations with business intelligence tools, like PowerBI and Tableau, to unlock deeper insights, streamline internal workflows, and support more strategic grantmaking. Read More
At our recent Lunch, Learn, and Connect at the Doris Duke Center in New York City, funders, nonprofit leaders, and board members gathered to explore how they are leading together across roles, sectors, and lines of power. A central tension and opportunity that surfaced was the call for philanthropy to evolve: from acting as a Read More
Last month, grantmakers and nonprofit leaders gathered in Cincinnati to discuss a timely and important question: How can we adapt, evolve, or create new grantmaking practices to better meet the needs and realities of nonprofits right now? Read More
Foundations are increasingly recognizing the importance of risk management to strengthen grant outcomes — but how can grantmaking systems adapt to support this shift? This webinar explores how the Iowa West Foundation has operationalized risk management and helps grantees navigate unforeseen challenges without derailing project goals. Read More
Earlier this month, GivingData attended the 2025 Grantmakers in Health Annual Conference in New Orleans. The conference offered a substantive program, grounded in both the historical context of its host city and the current realities of the sector. New Orleans provided a fitting backdrop for conversations that challenged participants to consider both the fragility and Read More