“Knowledge work,” framed simply as shared meaning making, continues to grow in importance as a core focus and function of philanthropy and grantmaking. We are increasingly deepening our understanding of how knowledge building approaches are becoming integral not only to our grant related operations but also to our broader organizational strategies and the ways in which we support and work with our partner grantees and communities.
There are a growing number of titles, activities, and roles being assigned to knowledge building within foundations. Regardless of the name, a shared discussion and promising practices are emerging related to the “how” of knowledge work within the sector.
In this session, we will explore the current moment in knowledge building in philanthropy and highlight its importance to grants professionals. Together, the co-presenters will share their experiences with knowledge building in different types of foundation settings. We will embrace vulnerability and transparency as we each share something that we are grappling with, pondering, or developing within our respective roles in philanthropy including key activities involved, opportunities we are exploring, questions we are still asking… and then ask peer participants to do so as well.
To download session slides, click here.
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