Grantee Perception Report

To achieve its goal of measurable, lasting conservation of natural resources, Resources Legacy Fund depends on effective working relationships with conservation partners, including contractors and grantee organizations. To help us evaluate our performance, refine our processes, and forge stronger partnerships, RLF, with the support of the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, commissioned a Grantee Perception Report (report) by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. This survey sought feedback from RLF grantees and philanthropic contractors approved for funding in 2007 and compared this data to the other funding organizations surveyed.

Overall the report indicates that grantees and contractors perceive RLF as a leader in the field, particularly when it comes to substantive knowledge of grantees’ fields and the shaping of public policy. Regarding areas of improvement, the report concludes that RLF should focus on more effectively communicating how a particular project fits within larger program strategy and increasing the responsiveness of its staff and consultants.

Based on these findings, RLF has begun pursuing the following significant changes, among others, to address critical findings without diminishing effectiveness in the areas in which RLF excels:

improved clarity of written materials regarding program funding criteria to ensure explicit strategies and deadlines;
implementation of a consistent protocol across program areas for timely and substantive response to grantee submittals; and
more frequent communication regarding the availability of non-monetary assistance offered through RLF.

We are grateful to the David and Lucile Packard Foundation and the Center for Effective Philanthropy, as well as the individuals surveyed, for providing us the opportunity to learn from our partners and improve our approaches and processes.

You may view or download the full report here.

Photograph by Tupper Blake