PFC Learning Series Tool 2: Learning in a time of crisis: 7 tips to help foundations focus on learning and evaluation

In non-crisis times, foundations often use tools such as strategic plans and evaluations to guide and inform action. A key goal for many foundations is to be able to describe the impact of their investments to help inform where and to whom future funding should be allocated. However, the COVID-19 crisis has affected how several foundations operate as well as how they deploy their resources to support their grantees and communities. The magnitude of the crisis has led many foundations to recognize the need to be more responsive and less restrictive in the support they provide. At the same time, there is an opportunity to reflect and learn from this moment in time regarding how foundations can work differently and what it means for contributing to positive change going forward. This short guide offers seven tips for foundation staff to understand, adopt, and make use of a learning mindset. Included are several links to relevant resources for those looking to learn more.