How to Avoid Excuses That Prevent Grant Makers From Aiding Black-Led Organizations

NFF CEO, Antony Bugg-Levine, and Common Future CEO, Rodney Foxworth, suggest ways to overcome the top 5 excuses grandmasters often make.

“We don’t know who these Black leaders are or where to find them.”
“We’re concerned that you can’t absorb this capital, given your small budget and staff size.”
“But do you have the capacity to provide the data, metrics, stories, and reporting to demonstrate impact?”
“Your methods are too radical and political.”
“It’s too risky to support community-centered organizations that may not survive the current crisis.”

Authors: Antony Bugg-Levine, CEO, Nonprofit Finance Fund, and Rodney Foxworth, CEO, Common Future