Is it true that foundation grants for operating support are increasing?
In 2006, funding for general support surpassed the previous record, but its share inched down.
In 2006, funding for general or unrestricted support declined to a 19 percent share of grant dollars, down from 20 percent in 2005 and 21 percent in 2004. By share of number of grants, operating support declined to 24 percent in 2006, compared to 26 percent in 2005.
Capital support—including funding for building and renovation, equipment, technology, and endowments—declined to 18 percent of grant dollars in 2006.
Program support—which includes funding for activities ranging from program development to seed money, to conferences, to curriculum development—continued to account for the largest share of grant dollars (50 percent of total foundation giving in 2006).
Public affairs/society benefit and arts and culture received larger shares of general or operating support in 2006. Health and education received smaller shares.
