Board members and staff of philanthropic institutions regularly reach out to CMF for support in navigating challenges related to foundation operations, grantmaking and leadership. Across these topics and others, there is a distinct commonality in the challenges experienced by foundations that have moved beyond the beginning phases of a new organization and have reached a more advanced age or level of complexity. These organizations may be considered “maturing foundations.” 

Recognizing that much of the educational material available nationally to assist foundations is designed for foundation orientations – to assist those just getting started – this resource alternatively focuses on the needs of executives, staff and board members of maturing foundations. 

Contents include:

1. Context on foundation lifecycles
2. An overview of issues commonly faced by maturing foundations
3. Approaches for addressing those issues.