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The Moleskine Foundation: A Model for Transformative Philanthropy
Philanthropy is often measured in dollars, but true impact comes from how those dollars are invested in people and ideas. The Moleskine Foundation is redefining what it means to be a funder by going beyond financial support to create a thriving global ecosystem for creative leaders. Having had the privilege of attending both their Creative Leaders conference in June 2024 and the Unconference in October 2024, I’ve witnessed firsthand how they are changing the game in institutional giving.
Creativity as a Force for Change
At the heart of the Moleskine Foundation’s work is a belief that creativity has the power to transform the world. This isn’t just a tagline—it’s an ethos that guides their funding strategy, programming, and the way they cultivate relationships with grantees. They don’t just invest in projects; they invest in people who use creativity as a tool for social change. Their focus on creative leadership—whether in the arts, business, or community organizing—is a refreshing departure from traditional philanthropy, which often prioritizes metrics over vision.
Holistic Support Beyond the Grant
Many funders operate on a transactional model: you apply, receive funding, and report on outcomes. The Moleskine Foundation takes a relational approach, treating grantees as long-term partners. This was evident at both conferences, where grantees weren’t just recipients of funds but active contributors to a global network of creative changemakers. They provide:
• Ongoing relationship-building and development, ensuring that organizations and individuals they support are not working in isolation.
• Peer-to-peer support opportunities, creating spaces where leaders can exchange ideas, problem-solve together, and co-create solutions.
• Global connections and collaborations, recognizing that innovation flourishes when diverse perspectives intersect.
This holistic approach acknowledges that true impact isn’t just about executing a funded project but about sustaining and growing the creative leadership behind it.
Spaces for Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
One of the most powerful aspects of the Moleskine Foundation’s approach is its commitment to building community among grantees. Both the Creative Leaders conference and the Unconference were designed not just to showcase work but to facilitate deep conversations, creative problem-solving, and shared learning. These weren’t passive events with speakers on a stage; they were dynamic spaces where grantees could:
• Share best practices and lessons learned from their work.
• Workshop ideas and receive real-time feedback from peers.
• Forge meaningful collaborations that extend beyond the conference setting.
This intentional creation of creative ecosystems ensures that projects aren’t happening in silos but are instead informed by and connected to a global movement of creative leaders.
A New Standard for Philanthropy
The Moleskine Foundation is setting a new standard for institutional philanthropy, one that prioritizes creativity, community, and collaboration. Their work challenges other funders to rethink how they engage with grantees—not just as beneficiaries but as partners in shaping the future.
For anyone passionate about using creativity as a tool for social impact, the Moleskine Foundation is more than a funder. It is a catalyst for meaningful change, a convener of brilliant minds, and a model for what modern philanthropy should look like.
Final Thoughts
As someone deeply engaged in creative leadership and community impact, my experience with the Moleskine Foundation has been both affirming and inspiring. Their approach proves that when funders truly invest in people, ideas, and relationships, the impact extends far beyond a single grant cycle—it creates lasting, systemic change.
-Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony
Top Tips & Tricks for Writing Grants:
Writing grants can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be! Here are some top tips to make the process smoother and increase your chances of success!
Give yourself time. Use the grant plan to identify grants and plan to give yourself at least a month to write and submit. Try and submit a week before the actual deadline. (Have another pair of eyes look at it before you submit if you can)
Start early and don’t wait to the last minute. Some funders (like the TAC, ArtReach) will review your grant if you get it to them 2-4 weeks ahead of the deadline.
Make sure if you need to register a profile on the funders website you do it right away.
Call the granting officer and discuss your project and if you have any questions.
Gather your support materials as early as possible. (especially if you are asking people to write you letters of reference)
Do your grant in chunks so it doesn’t get to overwhelming.
Check for spelling and grammar errors.
Use the language that the funder is using - look at key words on their website or if they produce any reports.
Follow the template exactly as they have provided it and answer all questions.
Provide a detailed workplan and budget.
Connect with potential sponsors, donors and partners early so you can include them on the grant.
Make sure to have good evidence when describing why your project is needed.
Apply for additional accessibility funding if you or anyone on your project will need it.
By following these tips, you'll significantly increase your chances of securing the funding you need to make a difference.
Remember, grant writing is a skill that improves with practice. Don't be afraid to seek guidance from experienced grant writers or mentors.
-Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony
Navigating Your Path to Success:
At Creative Compass Solutions, we believe that access to valuable resources is key to unlocking potential and achieving ambitious goals. Whether you're a non-profit striving to secure crucial funding, a small business aiming for exponential growth, or an entrepreneur crafting compelling proposals, we're here to guide you.
We're committed to making our expertise accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience and will soon announce the launch (or latest update!) of our comprehensive resource page!
At Creative Compass Solutions, we're more than just a consulting firm; we're your partners in success. We believe in fostering a supportive community where individuals and organizations can learn from each other and access the resources they need to achieve their full potential.
We are excited to work with our community and we encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected and access ongoing resources.
-The Creative Compass Solutions Team
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