The Partnership Alignment Process: A New Approach to Grantmaking.
By Jackie Murphy
Old school typewriter with the words “Update” typed on a piece of white paper.
What’s changed about our grantmaking?
The Collins Foundation’s new five-step Partnership Alignment Process takes the place of the traditional Letter of Intent (LOI) and lengthy grant application.
Grantees told us they wanted a grantmaking process that is easier to understand and doesn’t depend on a lot of written material. The Partnership Alignment Process requires less paperwork than typical grant applications. It begins with questions about shared values, eligibility requirements, and compliance criteria before asking for detailed organizational information from a potential grantee.
We believe our new grantmaking process is better for community partners from beginning to end. This approach is about forming genuine connections with community-based organizations, extending beyond funding opportunities. The grantmaking team of Community Resource Strategists (CRS) exists for the benefit of people and communities.
Collins is also funding more organizations led by and supporting historically underfunded and threatened communities, as well as providing more general operations funding. We know the work of sustainable change happens in communities, led by people with lived experiences closest to the issues being addressed. This model of philanthropy holds us accountable to realizing our commitment to a just and equitable Oregon for all of us. When everyone can fully participate in the systems that shape their lives, we all benefit.
The Five Steps of the Collins Partnership Alignment Process
Partnership Alignment Screener.
Eligibility Questionnaire.
Provide Legal Information.
Organization Exploration with a Community Resource Strategist (CRS).
Funding Decision & Payment.
Application Window
The Partnership Alignment Screener will be open on Thursday, November 20. through Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Learn More
You can find detailed information about each step of the Partnership Alignment Process on our website.