International Causes Saw Gain in Foundation Grants in 2008, but Other Causes Were Not So Lucky

Despite the deepening economic crisis, foundations awarded more money in 2008 than in the previous year, according to a new study of 1,490 funds conducted by the Foundation Center. But those gains were not spread across all types of causes.

While giving by a subset of nearly 500 grant makers rose by 6.6 percent, half of the 10 major program areas experienced a drop in 2008. Grant dollars to social-service groups declined the most, by 12.7 percent, followed by grants to science and technology organizations.

By contrast, foundation support of the environment and animals, international affairs, and health increased by double digits. International giving totaled more than $6-billion, a record 24.4 percent of total foundation dollars.

Foundations in the study awarded a record 214 grants of $10-million or more in 2008. General support accounted for 19.2 percent of total giving.

Groups that help economically disadvantaged people received a larger share of grant dollars than organizations that help other populations. Foundation support of women and girls, meanwhile, jumped 56 percent in 2008.

The most-popular causes among independent foundations were health, education, and human services. Priorities for corporate foundations were education, human services, and public affairs.

The full study, Foundation Giving Trends (2010 Edition) can be purchased for $45 on the Foundation Center’s Web site. Highlights from the study are available at no cost.