Forefront’s annual Grantmakers Institute is a cohort-based learning series that helps new grantmakers further their skills and make connections across the philanthropic community in Illinois. Taught by a diverse group of experienced grantmakers, the Institute aims to strengthen the entire sector through sharing best practices, sparking conversation, and building community. Registration includes all four program dates, related materials, and meals during in-person sessions.
The 2024 Grantmakers Institute takes place April 25, 26, May 1, and May 7. Participants will have the most impactful experience if they commit to being part of the cohort, and we strongly encourage attendance at every session.
Understanding the Sector and Your Role
Thursday, April 25 – 9:30am to 4:00pm and Friday, April 26 – 9:30am to 3:30pm
Location: Forefront’s Chicago office, 200 W Madison St, 2nd Floor
Get situated within the larger context of your work with a dive into the current and historic realities of operating nonprofits, institutional philanthropy, and grantmaking as a profession. Faculty will also ground you in the principles and concepts to consider when building relationships with grantee partners and conducting due diligence.
Assessing Nonprofit Financial Health (Part 1 and 2)
Part 1: Wednesday, May 1 – 10:00am to Noon / Location: Virtual
Part 2: Tuesday, May 7 – 9:00am to Noon / Location: Forefront’s Chicago office, 200 W Madison St, 2nd Floor
Understanding the financial health of current and prospective grantees is a critical part of the grantmaking process. Focusing on effective approaches to reading and interpreting audited financial statements and the IRS Form 990, these two sessions will equip you to understand grantees’ financial reality, with concepts and tools applicable to grantees across a range of mission areas and business models.
Connecting the Dots
Tuesday, May 7 – Noon to 3:30pm
Location: Forefront’s Chicago office, 200 W Madison St, 2nd Floor
The final session of the Institute will focus on insights about some of the aspects of grantmaking that may or may not be in your job description but almost certainly take significant time and effort.
Forefront Member Registration – $670
Non-member Registration– $930
Not sure if your organization is a current member? Email us at registration@myforefront.org