Grantmaking Improvement Reports

As a commitment to continuous quality improvement, PCL examines its funding process and uses the findings to finetune its grantmaking practice.

2024-25 large grant funding round

The 2024-25 large grant funding round was designed to incorporate lessons learned from the previous funding round five years earlier. In addition, the Community Council — newly launched since the previous funding round — played a critical role in shaping the community engagement process, grant application and other details.

After the 2024-25 funding round concluded, PCL solicited feedback from applicants, community volunteer reviewers, and Community Council and Allocation Committee members.

2019-20 large grant funding round

In preparation for its 2019-20 grantmaking process, PCL contracted with Portland State University’s Center for Improvement of Child and Family Services to examine its funding process. The PSU team’s review yielded several recommendations focused on increasing transparency and equity throughout the process.

After PCL’s 2019-20 grantmaking concluded, PCL staff surveyed applicants and volunteer reviewers who scored applications, seeking feedback on features of the grantmaking process, including elements intended to improve equity and transparency. Similarly, staff conducted separate surveys with reviewers and applicants in its 2020 Small Grants funding process. Using survey results, plus data generated in the funding process, staff issued three reports, highlighting reviewers’ and applicants’ perspectives on strengths and areas needing improvement.

To download previous reports, visit our reports archive page.