In a recent article, the WSJ reported that small family foundations are able to pinpoint specific needs in a community and make a big impact by supporting causes that no one else is interested in supporting. Or by providing grants in a more creative way than their larger counterparts. For example, the Pierce Family Foundation in Chicago makes relatively modest grants, most around $25,000. But along with the grant money it provides other resources, like pairing staff with similar responsibilities from different nonprofits to create a support system.
According to the Foundation Center, annual giving by these small family foundations increased by 72% between 2002 and 2011, to more than $21 billion a year. So when your nonprofit is looking for grants, don’t just focus on the larger foundations, but research smaller family foundations as well.
Are there small family foundations making a big impact in your community? Tell us how in the comments below.