Headwaters believes that effective evaluation is grounded in learning that guides and refines philanthropic strategies over time. We are continuously learning and incorporating new styles of evaluation into our suite of services.

Evaluation begins by defining what success looks like for the program - the specific outcomes desired - before awarding grants. It continues by integrating these outcomes throughout the grantmaking process.

When conducting an evaluation, Headwaters looks at all aspects of your program - from the clarity of guidelines and the proposals received, to board actions and the development of annual grantmaking goals. We assess whether program goals are realistic and if grantees have the necessary tools to succeed. We also identify which grant strategies may lead to the best results.

Our services:

• Conduct surveys, in-depth interviews, and other qualitative and quantitative approaches
• Design, implement, and assess cluster evaluation approaches
• Analyze grantmaking mission, outcomes, strategies, and benchmarks to determine whether grants are achieving intended results
• Analyze efficiency of grant management and financial management programs
• Develop options to create more effective grantmaking programs
• Create feedback loops to allow staff and grantees to learn from evaluations
• Design, implement, and assess cluster evaluation approaches
• Analyze board and staff relationships in grantmaking

This information allows our clients to refine their approach, ensuring that dollars invested yield the greatest return.