The Fundamentals of Grantmaking | Session Two

The second day of our Fundamentals 101 series will focus on the financial side of things. We will begin by exploring financial due diligence and why it is an essential part of grantmaking, including the history and context of how systemic oppression shows up in financial statements and what key indicators funders might rely on for concrete and meaningful analysis of a non-profit’s financial health. 

After a short networking lunch, attendees will then dig into the popular topic of impact investing, which is the idea of putting money into initiatives, with the intention of generating a measurable, beneficial social or environmental impact, alongside a financial return. Topics of conversation will include how foundations can activate their endowments and program-related investments. 

Whether you are new to philanthropy or simply looking for a refresher, this program will offer grounding and an opportunity to meet your foundation peers! 

To learn more about the nuts and bolts of philanthropy, join us at part one on April 30.

Lunch will be provided. 

Key Topics Covered: 

• Financial statements and 990s 
• Impact Investing 
• Activating Your Endowment 

Target Audience

This program is designed for members of Catalyst. If you are interested in becoming a member of Catalyst, please contact [email protected].

Speakers

Matthew Dinsdale | Senior Manager at Moss Adams

Matt has practiced public accounting since 2008. He provides assurance and advisory services to a variety of higher education institutions, not-for-profit organizations, and government agencies. Matt also assists for-profit entities with federal grant funding matters.

Matt has significant experience conducting audits in accordance with Government Auditing Standards and the Single Audit Act and has published numerous articles and spoken at events and conferences on these topics. Matt is also a member of the firm’s single audit technical committee, charged with reviewing all single audit reports issued by the firm, to ensure the reporting and deliverables both meet firm standards and uniform guidance requirements.

Megan Thomas | President & CEO at Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties

Megan serves as Catalyst’s president & CEO, providing strategic leadership and partnership to the entire Catalyst staff, board, members, and community partners. Megan oversees Catalyst’s facilitation of collaborative efforts among its funder members and other stakeholders; leads the production of philanthropy and impact investing skills-building and issue-based learning; and spearheads Catalyst’s work related to championing equity and opportunity. She strengthens Imperial and San Diego County communities through shared learning and pooled and aligned funding strategies, and initiatives fiscally sponsored by Catalyst.