Ohio has a well-established philanthropic community from which has emerged innovative models for structured grantmaking aimed at improving the competitiveness of regional economies. Therefore, our state serves as a strong model through which to examine economic development grantmaking. The Foundation Center’s newly released Spotlight on Economic Development Grantmaking in Ohio (2002-2012) provides the context from which to explore these investments. As a descriptive brief, the snapshot will serve as the basis from which to engage a series of facilitated discussions. Direct engagement from foundation leadership, will help provide the basis for future research and the promotion of philanthropic investments in the field.
"By its very nature, nonprofit activity evolves over time to meet changing needs in society and consequently, the classification system must allow for flexibility to address shifting circumstances. Through this report, we hope to spark discussion about how economic development should be defined in the future as foundations and nonprofits endeavor to spur growth and provide opportunities that promote economic prosperity."
-Deborah Hoover, President & CEO, The Burton D. Morgan Foundation
For our part, Foundation Center envisions a long-term commitment to the examination of this philanthropic work with Ohio as the launch pad for research that is comparative and national in scope; having broad implications for future investments and the exploration of best practices in the field.
It is with pride that we recognize our Ohio philanthropies for leading the way in with a diverse portfolio of investments in economic development!
As always, be focused on knowledge, innovation and impact!
John Patrick Bailey, Ph.D.
Director-Cleveland
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