foundation relations

our services

The Office of Foundation Relations collaborates with its university colleagues to identify exemplary programs and initiatives that highlight and further ASU's key priorities and are likely to have strong appeal to local, national or international foundations. We also work to strategically advance those key priorities, programs and interests to foundations whose mission, goals and interests align with those of the university.

To advance the university's and foundation's institutional priorities with private foundations, our office:

• Focuses on ASU's priority initiatives, including the Biodesign Institute, the Global Institute of Sustainability and other educational initiatives.
• Works with ASU's multiple campuses, colleges and units to identify promising programs and match those programs with appropriate prospective funders.
• Supports faculty and staff in project and concept development and solicitation strategies.
• Partners with the ASU Office of Knowledge and Enterprise Development on limited submissions and internal calls for proposals.
• Manages the ongoing cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of private Arizona and national foundations with the capacity to make major investments in ASU.
• Establishes and maintains administrative practices that ensure a coordinated and strategic approach to foundation fundraising.
• Ensures the accuracy and timeliness of all records regarding foundation philanthropic giving to ASU.

To assist ASU faculty, staff and development officers with foundation fundraising-related activities, our office provides:

• Project and concept development.
• Foundation solicitation strategy development.
• Pre-proposal guideline review and support documentation.
• Assistance with written concept summaries, case statements, letters of inquiry and proposals.
• Contact with program officers when appropriate.
• Cultivation and stewardship activities.

Please email Meghan McKendry, director of foundation relations, for further information about how we can help you advance your proposal.