New and Notable

GMN Issues First Annual Report
The Grants Managers Network (GMN) issued its first annual report highlighting its accomplishments and sharing the goals and activities envisioned in its three-year (2009-2011) strategic plan. It makes a compelling and inspirational case for the importance of strong grants management to the field of philanthropy and highlights GMN’s role in helping to strengthen the field.

Project Streamline Gaining Momentum
To date, Project Streamline has shared its Drowning in Paperwork, Distracted From Purpose report with more than 14,000 grantmakers and grantseekers and held face-to-face discussions with more than 1,000 people to raise awareness of the need to streamline grant application, monitoring, and reporting practices in the field of philanthropy.  GMN members received the March newsletter highlighting new ideas, sharing your colleagues’ streamlining experiences, and updating you on the progress of the project.  Streamlining ideas, stories, and recommendations will continue to be shared through the Project Streamline Web site (www.projectstreamline.org).  

Currently under development is 1) a Guide to Streamlining, which will help grantmakers determine how to streamline, and 2) a series of workshops to provide hands-on training to grantmakers ready to implement changes in their organizations. Project Streamline expects to launch these in late summer.

Spring Fundraising Campaign Underway
GMN has launched its spring fundraising campaign.  As you are aware, GMN is one of the few funder networks that doesn’t require mandatory dues because of the generosity of its members in providing voluntary financial and in-kind support.   We hope that your organization will become or continue as a supporter of GMN.  

GM Guide Sales Continue to Grow!
The GM Guide (https://www.gmnetwork.org/gmguide.php) is being snapped up by our members and colleagues. The GM Guide is the only source of comprehensive grants management information, and its on-line format means users always have access to the most current information available.  The Guide will lead you through the entire grantmaking process, sharing common practices, templates, and resources to help you create new policies and procedures; verify that your current practices are aligned with industry standards, and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of grants management at your organization.  Its straightforward language helps to demystify legal and tax issues and supports better compliance, which is critical to meeting today’s exacting audit standards.

Annual subscription rates are $45 for individuals and $150 for organizations. Get yours today!

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