Social Innovation Practicum: Foundations and Grantmaking

This Social Innovation practicum (3 credits) will be available for up to 4 students who have an interest in foundations and grantmaking. The practicum begins with examining different approaches to grantmaking including social entrepreneurship, effective altruism, venture philanthropy, social justice grantmaking, and strategic philanthropy. Students will learn the differences across these conceptual frameworks and understand how they influence the ways in which foundations establish goals, develop strategies, evaluate grantees, and determine grant awards. Learners will explore readings and videos about the history and types of foundations; legal frameworks; 990s and financial statements; and key progress indicators in grantmaking. Once this module is completed, students will begin the applied work of the practicum.

The practicum will be in partnership with the Kasperik Foundation (KF) a San Diego-based family foundation that primarily works internationally with micro-finance social enterprises. Learners will research NGOs that qualify as candidates for KF grants; prepare letters of interest for approved candidates; coordinate the application process and review completed applications and supporting for selected programs. Finally, students will review and compile KPIs from quarterly and annual reports submitted by funded partners.

A stipend is provided to each student.

For more information and to register, please contact Professor Paula Cordeiro cordeiro@sandiego.edu

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