Support for Reflecting on a Program That Missed Its Mark

Understand why a grant program did not reach the people it was intended to reach.

About This Consultation

A structured reflection engagement for foundations whose grant programs produced fewer applications than expected, or applications that did not reflect the communities the program was designed to serve.

We review the program from start to finish — how it was designed, how it was communicated, who it reached, and who it did not. The goal is not to assign blame, but to understand what happened clearly enough to make informed improvements.

This typically includes:

• Review of program materials, including the announcement, application, eligibility criteria, timeline, and outreach approach
• Conversations with foundation staff and, when appropriate, with organizations that applied or chose not to apply
• A written summary outlining key findings and practical recommendations
• Optional support designing or implementing a revised version of the program

Designed for: Foundations whose grant programs or community initiatives did not reach their intended audience and want to understand why before launching the next phase.