Give Away the Store
Why Portland’s ReBuilding Center refuses to franchise, but is happy to share.
Nonprofits - Articles
Innovative ideas to help leaders of nonprofits and NGOs be more effective (more)
Review
Condescending Coverage
Newspapers do a poor job of reporting on the nonprofit sector.
Evaluation Blues
How accountability requirements hurt small, innovative programs the most.
Brevity Is the Soul of Innovation
How clear, brief mission statements inspire progress.
Podcast
William Foster - How to Grow a Nonprofit Big
Many nonprofits want to expand their staff and funding base so that they may serve a broader public. Until recently, little information was available about how such organizations may do so successfully. In an audio interview with Stanford Social Innovation Review managing editor Eric Nee, William Foster shares findings from the Bridgespan Group's groundbreaking research on what it takes to be in the big leagues. He discusses types of funders to pursue, how to restructure an expanding organization, and whether going big is right for everyone.
Creating High-Impact Nonprofits
Conventional wisdom says that scaling social innovation starts with strengthening internal management capabilities. This study of 12 high-impact nonprofits, however, shows that real social change happens when organizations go outside their own walls and find creative ways to enlist the help of others.
Give a Little Respect
How nonprofits win the dedication of their volunteers.
Elusive Blue Ribbons
Why winning foundations' special awards is difficult, and how it can be made easier.