5 survey respondents
Location: 35 E Wacker Dr Ste 2600, Chicago, 60601 IL
EIN: 36-6108460
100%
0%
8 hours
Median
50%
50%
70%
30%
2017 Deadlines:
Types of Grants Awarded:
Geographic Focus:
For Fiscal Year
Total Assets:
Total Grants:
Change in Assets FY :
Amount of Grants to Minnesota Nonprofits:
Largest Grant:
Smallest Grant:
Average Grant:
Professional in the field
They say they're trying to be anti-racist. But they still have racist policies, practices, and biases.
Illinois
Professional in the field
Other
2023
Bad
Bad
0
Grant Applicant - applied in 2023
GDDF's new-ish commitment to anti-racism is good. But GDDF still has implicit biases, hierarchical power structures, and inequitable policies and practices. GDDF only backs POC when they conform to GDDF's preconceptions.
Illinois
Applied and not funded
Other
2023
Bad
Average
8
Grant Applicant - applied in 2016
GDDF has been a consistent and helpful source of general operating funds as our organization has grown from all volunteer to an effective, professionally run nonprofit. If your mission and goals align with the foundation's, you will be well received. Be sure to talk with the appropriate program officer before applying.
Gives more than money, Friendly, Builds relationships
Wisconsin
Current or former grantee
Funded for greater amount
2016
Good
Available for calls and to visit in person if I'm in Chicago.
Good
The foundation supports the arts and land conservation. The best thing they do is to provide general operating funds to organizations that have demonstrated their effectiveness.
It would be great if they did a site visit. In all the years they've funded us, they have only done one site visit.
20
Grant Applicant - applied in 2017
It is not an overnight process to apply to the GDDF. The foundation wants to get to know your mission and activities first. While this may take some time (figure up to a year), they really care about understanding the work of their grantees. At times the pace of their application process slows down the work, but if you stick with it, their support is truly valuable.
Positive leader in the field, Likes site visits
Illinois
Current or former grantee
Funded for lesser amount
2017
Average
As mentioned, the foundation seeks to be in close communication. However, like all of us, they are busy, so the process of setting up meetings takes some time.
Good
It's heartening to see the organization's staff in a constant learning process of listening to their grantees. This is clearly demonstrated.
Consider loosening guidelines to see what exciting possibilities may be out there to inspire the board to expanded funding interests that still maintain alignment with the foundation's mission.
Don't wait to communicate with GDDF staff.
Provide clarity around their funding priorities.
12
Grant Applicant - applied in 2017
Be sure to work with the Lowcountry Director prior to applying, even better during the conceptual stage of your new program (if new), or in the planning stages (if current), as they can help you angle it the right way or provide feedback if they will even find it to begin with. Application process is very straightforward and easier than many.
Positive leader in the field, Gives more than money, Insightful, Friendly, Builds relationships, Likes site visits, "Gets" nonprofits and issues, Openminded, Responsive
South Carolina
Current or former grantee
Funded for amount requested
2017
Good
Good
Like many other finders, find in game ways to reach organizations that are not 501(c)3 will be the future. Keep taking risks.
Grantor convenes granted regularly for professional development, check-ins, and more. Representative also attends project/program funded. Great feedback and services beyond just the money received.
5 to 10 hours
