Learn about Foundation Funding
Most foundations are mission-driven entities that seek to make a difference in society, whether at the grass-roots level or through policy change. Since these funders generally seek to address a specific set of issues or unmet needs, your proposed project should be presented as the best way for them to attain this end.
Duke University has a priority-driven agenda with selected funders and has special processes in place for proposals to The Duke Endowment, the Mary Duke Biddle Foundation, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Josiah Charles Trent Foundation, and several other major funders. Before contacting a potential funder, Duke faculty and staff should contact our office. We can assist you in making a strategic approach, while at the same time coordinating the overall Duke relationship. We have also created a helpful guide (.doc format) to assist Duke faculty and staff who are researching foundation funders and preparing proposals.