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Building Profile

To be effective, research suggests that foundations should focus on building their profile and establishing direct and open lines of communication with audiences that matter most. Those audiences might include various levels of government, other foundations, grantees, and the next generation of wealthy individuals poised to establish their own foundations.

Without exception, the research strongly urges foundations to consider how integrated and strategic communication can enhance impact. From effective websites to proactive media relations and creative events, foundations can use communication tools to further enhance reputation and build credibility, influencing others to catch their vision for making the world a better place - all resulting in higher performance and greater impact for their work.

Observers argue that the stage is big enough for both grantees and foundations to communicate value, results and lessons learned.

They say that foundations have an opportunity to engage in collaborative efforts that celebrate and support the work of everyone, while demonstrating their own unique contribution. By proactively communicating their vision and knowledge, foundations help inspire, guide, and manage expectations about success, both inside and outside the philanthropic community.