Making the case for unrestricted funding: A summary of key points for foundation staff and Boards

Abstract

This briefing summaries the key points from IVAR research to help grantmakers and Boards to consider and make the case for unrestricted funding. The evidence is clear and compelling: the preference for restricted funding rests on familiarity, not evidence. While restricted funding can be the right choice, it has not earned its place as the dominant model.  Perceived barriers should not deter a change that presents value to both charities and funders. In this short briefing, we lay out the value of unrestricted funding, consolidated from our research to date, to help grantmakers and board members clearly consider and make the case for unrestricted funding: both in their organisations and to colleagues in the sector