Begin by examining the following through a lens of achieving greater inclusiveness and diversity:

• Start with your organizational mission.

  Is it well understood? Are the values expressed in your mission shared and embraced throughout the organization?

• What are your goals and purpose of your grantmaking?

  Are your grantmaking practices inclusive of the individuals your grantmaking will impact? Are the resources in place in order to achieve your grantmaking goals?

• How would you assess your organization’s climate and culture?

• How do grantees (both declined and awarded), staff, board, volunteers and stakeholders perceive your organization’s climate and culture?

• If permissible by your board charter, have you considered your board appointment process?

  Does your Board reflect the community you are serving?

• How is diversity in staffing considered?

  If you employ individuals from diverse backgrounds, are they included in decision making? How are individuals from within your organizational learning from their backgrounds and experiences?

• Have you considered diversifying your business contracting and vendor process?

• Does your foundation collect demographic data on grantees and applicants?

  How diverse is your grantmaking? Are there disparities between declined applicants and awarded applicants?

• How diverse are your advisory committees?

  Is their demographic composition reflective of the communities you serve?

• Have you considered the convening and education role foundations can have with the nonprofit community—especially among grassroots nonprofits serving diverse communities?