Proposal Analysis in Grantmaking

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

Meeting Dates & Times

Participants will meet virtually on Wednesday, February 24 from 12:30–4:30 p.m. and again on Thursday, February 25 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

Surabhi Pandit, M.S.W., is a philanthropy leader with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of social justice, human rights, and equity-focused grantmaking. She has designed and managed multimillion-dollar grant portfolios, built collaborative funding initiatives such as the Michigan Justice Fund, and led sector-wide equity strategies. Surabhi currently serves as vice chair of The Funders Network board and advises the Center for Effective Philanthropy. A graduate of the University of Michigan, she brings curiosity, vision, and a deep commitment to building a just and equitable future to her role as a visioning strategist with FutureGood. Learn more about Surabhi.

Harmony Rhodes is a principal consultant at Connective Bridge Strategies, bringing over a decade of experience working in philanthropy. Her experience spans grantmaking, program design, private foundation compliance, training, and strategic planning and development. Harmony previously worked as a program officer at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, focusing on strategic grantmaking, programs, and special initiatives. Prior to that, she worked at the DTE Foundation. Learn more about Harmony.

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.