Overcoming the Power Dynamic Between Grant Maker and Grantee

Those who hold the purse strings inevitably wield power over those who need their philanthropy. But grant makers who acknowledge this power dynamic can take steps to manage it in productive ways.

In this video produced by Exponent Philanthropy — the third in a new monthly series — several grant makers share their desire to build strong, authentic, and trusting relationships with grantees rather than simply conducting a transaction. One grant maker builds rapport by calling grantees and treating them like clients, and another strives to put herself in potential grantees’ shoes when meeting with grant applicants.

“We see ourselves as being privileged to be able to support amazing programs in education and job creation, and we see them [the grantees] as the experts,” says Suzanne Skees, director of the Skees Family Foundation.

Although that’s not always the mindset among grant makers, some are changing the way they work, trying to understand the perspective of grant seekers and build trust and respect.

This is the second installment in a monthly video series in partnership with Exponent Philanthropy, previously known as the Association of Small Foundations. You can also see this video on the Philanthropy Lessons website.