Where can I find information on starting a foundation?

Although most people who use Foundation Center resources are grantseekers affiliated with nonprofits, occasionally people approach us with an interest in setting up their own grantmaking foundation. For specific information on this topic, you may want to contact the Council on Foundations, a national nonprofit membership association of grantmaking foundations and corporate givers. There may also be a regional association of grantmakers in your part of the country that has information on starting a foundation.

In addition, there are a number of books that address many of the issues involved in starting a foundation. One particularly useful title is

Edie, John A. First Steps in Starting a Foundation. 3rd edition. Washington, DC: Council on Foundations, 1989.

Other books on this topic are available at Center libraries in Atlanta, Cleveland, New York, San Francisco, and Washington, DC, and at some Cooperating Collections.

The Center's web site offers an FAQ on starting a foundation. See also the FAQs entitled "How do I establish a nonprofit organization?" and "What is the difference between a private foundation and a public charity?"