Independent foundations are usually founded by one individual, often by bequest. The members from the founding family, if any, represent a minority of the board and do not control the board. Many large independent foundations are no longer governed by members of the original donor’s family but are run by boards made up of community, business and academic leaders. Independent foundations are occasionally termed "non-operating" because they do not run their own programs.
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Accountability Self-Assessment Tool for Private Foundations
Southeastern Council of Foundations
Private foundations can use this tool to ensure they are complying with federal laws and to assess how well they are engaging in recommended practices for being accountable to the public.
Stewardship Principles and Practices for Independent Foundations [PDF]
Council on Foundations
Independent foundation trustees and staff from across the country created this document, which succinctly and clearly states independent foundations' commitment to excellence and accountability. Independent foundations—whether small or large, staffed or board-managed—will want to use these voluntary Stewardship Principles to guide and strengthen their board governance, grantmaking and management.
Independent Foundation CEO Functions and Competencies [PDF]
Council on Foundations
The Council on Foundations' Advisory Committee for Executive Programs (ACEP) with input from colleagues in the field, have identified core skills and knowledge needed to perform the foundation CEO job. |
