Are Nonprofits Ready to Give Foundations Direct Feedback?

One year ago, we launched an ambitious project that seeks no less than a reshaping of the culture of philanthropy from one that’s “killing itself with kindness” and where foundations are encased in an “isolation bubble,” to one where direct feedback and critique are welcomed and encouraged.

One end of that cultural equation involves foundations’ attitudes, expectations, and actions that may hinder honest feedback from grantees, peers and other stakeholders to inform decision-making. The other end involves nonprofits’ capacity and willingness to provide that critical feedback.