Committed donors can find themselves frustrated with their ability to make an impact. Lacking the time for research, they give to well-known organizations or in response to requests from friends. Generous donors can soon become overwhelmed by the volume of requests and underwhelmed by the impact of their donations. In response to this conundrum, three business people conceived of a giving coalition steeped in deep due diligence, strategic thinking and goal orientation to help fund systemic change to social problems. Two of these business people agreed to switch careers and devote their time to lead the initiative.

In September 2002, fourteen families agreed to join the collaborative Strategic Grant Partners. The families established the common mission of helping struggling individuals and families in Massachusetts improve their lives. Since that time, SGP has granted over $34,000,000 to 28 organizations.

The philosophy and practice of SGP continued to develop over the years. We began with informal strategic support and business advice to potential and existing grantees. This work matured into our current model of close working partnerships with grantees. The pro bono consulting services we provide include helping grantees develop organizational strategies, theories of change and strategic plans as well as tactical support on key implementation issues.

Once an organization becomes an SGP grantee, SGP staff continues to provide ongoing advice and strategic assistance as well as hands on, practical implementation support to ensure the organization is as successful as possible.

SGP now includes 15 family foundations in Massachusetts and has raised a third round of funding to continue to support this work.