When one comes to the realization that there are organizations that have philanthropy as part of their mission, the potential projects that come to mind multiply. Some foundations want to give money to improve education in this country or to increase our communities exposure to the arts, to help the homeless, to improve literacy, racial conflicts, or problems in the Middle East. Most if not all seem to be very worthy causes.
Foundations make grants with certain and sometimes very specific expectations.
A good idea is not always a fundable idea. Each foundation has its own funding priorities but there are some things that most foundations look for in making grants. First, they like projects that are practical. This means that they have a focus, a purpose, a beginning, middle and an end, and they will prove a theory, demonstrate a technique, solve a social problem or otherwise provide knowledge and wisdom to enduring fundamental questions. Second, foundations like competent people.