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Forthcoming Discussions
Corporate Fund Raising in a Turbulent Economy
Nearly three quarters of America's largest corporations expect donations to charity to remain flat or decrease this year, according to The Chronicle's annual survey on corporate giving.
Based on that projection, nonprofit groups are facing a tough market for corporate donations. But there are ways for charities to attract the attention of businesses, even during tough economic times.
- Read a transcript of the discussion.
Money Without Strings: The Debate Over Operating Support
Eighty percent of the money that foundations distribute to charitable causes is earmarked for charity programs and other purposes, so it cannot be used for basic operating costs like utilities, rent, supplies, and clerical help.
Many grant makers say they earmark most of their grants out of concern that otherwise the nonprofit groups will become too dependent. And they say it is too hard to measure the specific results of an unrestricted grant.
But in recent years, a handful of grant makers have become more willing to provide money for operating costs. Advocates of operating support say nonprofit groups can be more innovative and manage their operations better if they don't have to worry about following a grant maker's instructions for how every dollar should be used.
In an online discussion, grant makers and grant seekers will discuss the pros and cons of operating support -- and how nonprofit groups can find donors willing to give them unrestricted dollars.
Previous Discussions
Becoming a Consultant: Is This the Job for You?
Nonprofit executives often dream of becoming consultants who advise charities on fund raising, management practices, or other topics.
Not only can you potentially earn more money as a consultant than you do as an employee, but a consultant's job has other perks: You can choose which nonprofit groups you want to advise and often can work flexible hours from a home office. But a consultant's job is not for everyone. Working from home can easily becoming isolating, for example.
What do you need to be aware of in deciding whether to attempt a career switch and become a consultant? What are the hidden expenses from a financial standpoint, as well as the personal and professional costs? Join us for a discussion with people who have made the leap into the consulting world after years of working on the staff of a nonprofit organization.
Making the Most of a Landmark Gift
Most nonprofit leaders dream of getting a windfall gift.
For small- to mid-size organizations that struggle to raise enough money to reach their annual goals, the prospect of receiving an unexpected bequest of $100-million or more seems like winning the lottery.
But as is often the case with lottery winners, failing to properly plan for how to use a large sum can cause an array of new problems.
What should your organization do to be ready for such a gift? How have other groups handled such windfalls?
Discussion Transcripts
Making the Most of a Landmark GiftMost nonprofit leaders dream of getting a windfall gift. ... ...(8/5/2008)
The Future of the Gates FoundationThe Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in Seattle has grown from a start-up to become the nation's largest and most visible foundation in the span of just eight years.... (7/29/2008)
Starting and Building an EndowmentCharities are increasingly creating endowments so they can guarantee their long-term financial health, especially in tough economic times. ... (7/22/2008)
Building Your Online Presence on a Tight BudgetMost charities have a strong desire to improve their ability to use the Internet to communicate more effectively with supporters, volunteers, and potential donors. ... (7/15/2008)
Corporate Marketing Deals for CharitiesCharities are increasingly arranging marketing deals with companies as a way to raise money and attention. In addition to getting a portion of the sales of a product, charities that enter into these deals often get other benefits. ... (7/8/2008)
Copyright © 2008 The Chronicle of Philanthropy