Rural Philanthropy

Foundations seeking to achieve greater impact often focus their grantmaking in areas with dense populations. Some grantmakers may also believe that rural nonprofits lack the sophistication needed to become effective and sustainable grantees.

These are among the findings described in the report, Rural Philanthropy: Building Dialogue from Within, published by the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy. NCRP examines real and perceived obstacles that set rural nonprofits apart from foundations located in urban settings.

Strategies that NCRP recommend include providing flexible multiyear support and funding for reserves. In addition, rural philanthropy can be strengthened by expanding the role of capacity building intermediaries and funding collaboratives.

The full report was funded by the W. K. Kellogg Foundation and is available at the NCRP web site.