A two-day course for program officers — both those new to their role and veterans looking to refine their process.
Proposal solicitation and analysis are essential skills for grantmaking. Why, what, and how projects and organizations are identified and funded can have a lasting impact on local communities — and even more broadly if the work is replicated or scaled.
The Johnson Center’s Proposal Analysis in Grantmaking course is designed to encourage grantmakers to learn as much as possible about the grantee organization, program, and community so that opportunities to build capacity and partnerships are recognized and supported.
This course is equally valuable for both new and experienced program officers. Participants will explore how proposal solicitation and analysis set the stage to advance equity and authentically share power with community organizations — all while working within the context of a foundation’s mission and grantmaking philosophy.
Join your peers from the field and discover how to design and implement an equitable, efficient, and clear proposal process.
Individual Rate: $885
Group Rate: $835 per person for groups of 3 or more from the same organization
Deadline to register: Friday, Oct. 23
Please Note: It is essential to the success of this program that participants attend both sessions of the course over two days, as well as participate in polls, breakout sessions, and discussions (either verbally or via chat). The use of artificial intelligence (AI) of any kind is prohibited. The program will NOT be recorded.
Meeting Dates & Times
Participants will meet virtually on Wednesday, October 28 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. and again on Thursday, October 29 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. (ET).
Day One:
- Foundation strategy, approach, and risk management
- Right-sizing the proposal solicitation and application process
- Core elements of a proposal and what makes a good proposal
- Alignment with foundation criteria
Day Two:
- Overview of equitable due diligence
- Recognizing and leveraging opportunities for capacity building
- Power dynamics, trust-building, and stakeholder engagement
- Communicating the decision
Course Instructors
Bethany Miller, M.P.A., is deputy director of learning and impact at Ascendium Education Philanthropy, part of Ascendium Education Group. Her responsibilities include overseeing a team focused on metrics, evaluations, and internal learning practices that strengthen Ascendium’s strategy and operations. Learn more about Bethany.
Russell Ramsey, M.P.P., is vice president for education at the Gates Family Foundation. Prior to relocating to Denver in 2023, Russ led the $20 million annual education grantmaking program at the Houston Endowment and also later served as the organization’s director of learning and evaluation, strengthening organizational impact by managing strategy development and evaluating evidence of progress toward goals. Russ brings significant experience as a classroom teacher, teacher coach, and school leader in both urban and rural elementary, middle, and high schools in four southern states. Learn more about Russ.
Who should attend this course?
This course is intended for foundation staff, donors, and others engaged in grantmaking. If you do not fit this profile but are interested in attending, please email jcp@gvsu.edu before registering.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
This course may be canceled if it does not reach the minimum number of registrants. In the event of a cancellation, you will be notified at least two weeks before the course start date and will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer your registration to another Johnson Center course. Refund requests for any other reason must be made at least two weeks prior to the start of the course.
Questions about this event or your registration?
Call 616-331-7585 or email jcp@gvsu.edu.