New 2020 Consumers Guide to Grants Management Systems eases technology decisions for grantmakers

New 2020 Consumers Guide to Grants Management Systems eases technology decisions for grantmakers

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Tech Impact’s Idealware recently published a comprehensive guide reviewing 14 of the most widely used grants management systems (GMS), including Amp Impact. Here’s why it’s looked to as a critical resource for grantmakers globally.

In these times of growing uncertainty, the sector’s need for responsive, collaborative, and streamlined philanthropy is more important than ever before. As of April 9, 842 grants totalling $5.2 billion have been awarded to address issues related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and that number will continue to rise.

As more foundations and grantmakers work to adapt and improve their grantmaking processes and procedures, it’s essential that they are equipped with the right technology to understand the value and impact of their grants, streamline and simplify processes, facilitate collaboration internally and across the sector, and identify and mitigate unexpected risks.

"[Grants Management Systems] have evolved from tools focused on the mechanics of grants management to tools that provide the data used for strategic decision-making."

The good news is Tech Impact’s Idealware, Grantbook, and PEAK Grantmaking have combined their extensive knowledge of the philanthropic sector along with recent in-depth research to publish A Consumers Guide to Grants Management Systems (2020 Edition). This incredibly comprehensive guide reviews 14 of the most widely used grants management systems using criteria developed with the expertise of consultants, vendors, foundation program officers, and system administrators. We’re proud that Amp Impact was featured for the first time in this guide – one of two Salesforce-based grants management solutions included.

This annual report is looked to as a critical resource for grantmakers globally. It helps inform technology decisions in order to streamline and enhance grantmaking as well as reduce the burden on grantees during grant application and reporting processes. Inside, you’ll find a report on the state of the GMS marketplace, an in-depth look into the process of selecting a grants management system, and reviews for each of the GMS solutions across criteria from user experience to payments and budgeting to outcome measurement to support and training.

Since the 2016 Consumers Guide, Tech Impact’s Idealware “expanded its research around reporting requirements to include a question for vendors about how their systems might support impact measurement.” We’re encouraged by this increased focus, as it’s something we’ve seen many grantmakers seeking.

“Collecting and evaluating data related to impact has continued to grow in importance, and this is one of the areas in which the GMS marketplace has seen the most growth."

The digital version also includes some extremely detailed charts making it easy to compare systems, features, and pricing. Whether you’re in the market for a new system or just want to see how your current one stacks up, we highly recommend exploring this interactive guide. We tip our hat to Tech Impact’s Idealware, Grantbook, and PEAK, who are making it easier than ever to compare the top grants management systems and help grantmakers choose the right technology solution to fit their needs.

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