Evaluating organizations is a complex multi-dimensional topic, to which there are no absolutes: no black or white and no wrong or right. Nonetheless, we strongly feel that some answers are better (or more efficient) than others. Many nonprofits and social enterprises claim to “do good”. However, not every well-intentioned project will generate the desired outcomes. On the other hand, volunteers an
d donors alike often enthusiastically support projects that have strong PR campaigns and marketing tactics. Millions of dollars are spent on marginal solutions with a "feel good" aura, while resources might be better used on strategic solutions run by organizations focused on implementation. Because resources are finite and good intentions are not enough, it is our aim to bring to the fore efficient change agents who we believe are deserving of funds, volunteers and donors. AREAS OF FOCUS
We focus on developmental needs in 4 key areas:
• Education
• Health
• Infrastructure Development
• Disaster Management
METHODOLOGY
We Look for People, as well as Projects:
Innovative solutions grab our attention. But there is often a large gap between the promise of an idea and a real world solution. So we look for innovation paired with a great organization. We do that by evaluating an organization's quality of ideas, leadership, organizational capacity, strategy, sustainability, and track record. We Build Relationships:
HF spends time getting to know prospective partners by collecting basic information, reviewing materials and financials, getting to know their goals and mindset to assess alignment with our giving philosophy. We go out to the field to meet a community, talk to beneficiaries, share our insights from our network and experiences, as well as connect chosen partners with other funders within our network. We hope to add value not just by funding a project, but by getting involved in the wider effort of that cause. We Fund Impact:
Although the measurement of impact can be somewhat subjective, we prefer to invest in organizations that collect field data. Setting goals and evaluating metrics are useful ways of obtaining feedback, and more importantly, to check if solutions are effective. Similarly, it helps us to learn from both failures and successes, in addition to helping us decide how to allocate resources across different organizations. In this way, our partners help us get better at giving. We Favor Flexible Funding:
Grants are entrusted to partners with flexibility allowing them to invest in other areas necessary for them to succeed. This means, we give our partners the space needed to operate as they see fit. We rarely ask for detailed reports, other than the one-time standard liquidation of funds. Instead, we prefer to arrange for site visits. An organization's time and effort is valuable -- we want them to spend it primarily on their mission.
