Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈantme͡ɪkɪŋ] (IPA) 
Grantmaking is spelled with the letters G-R-A-N-T-M-A-K-I-N-G. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it is transcribed as /ˈɡrænt-ˌmeɪkɪŋ/. The "gr" sound is pronounced as /ɡr/ with a hard "g" followed by a rolled "r". The "a" sound is /æ/ as in "cat". The "nt" is nasalized, /nt/, and the "m" is pronounced as a voiced bilabial nasal /m/. The "k" sound is sharp, /k/, and the "ing" syllable is pronounced /ˌmeɪkɪŋ/.
Grantmaking is the process and practice of allocating funds for specific purposes, typically through a formal organization or institution. It involves the distribution of financial resources to individuals, organizations, or communities in order to support various projects, initiatives, or causes for the betterment of society. Grantmaking is often carried out by foundations, philanthropic organizations, or government agencies, with the aim of addressing social, environmental, educational, or health-related needs.
The process of grantmaking typically includes several key steps. Firstly, there is an identification of the funding priorities or areas of focus. This can be based on the granting institution's mission, values, or specific goals. Next, a call for proposals or applications is usually made, where potential beneficiaries or grantees can submit proposals outlining their project and its alignment with the funding priorities. These proposals are then carefully reviewed by the grantmaker, either through an internal team or external experts, to assess their feasibility, impact, and alignment with the funding criteria. Finally, grants are awarded to the selected grantees, providing them with the necessary financial support to implement their projects or initiatives.
Grantmaking plays a vital role in facilitating positive social change, promoting innovation, and addressing societal challenges. It allows organizations or individuals with limited resources to access funding that can significantly enhance their work and impact. Moreover, grantmaking fosters collaboration and partnership, as it often requires engagement with different stakeholders, including applicants, peer reviewers, and beneficiaries. It also encourages transparency and accountability, as grantmakers are expected to provide clear guidelines, evaluation processes, and reporting requirements to ensure that the granted funds are used effectively and in accordance with the intended purposes.
The word "grantmaking" combines two elements: "grant" and "making".
The term "grant" originated from Middle English and Old French. The Middle English term "graunt" meant a "bestowal" or "gift", while the Old French term "graunter" had a similar meaning of "to agree" or "to promise". This Old French root comes from the Latin word "grandire", meaning "to make greater" or "to enlarge". Over time, the meaning of "grant" evolved to refer to a sum of money or other resources given by an organization or individual for a specific purpose.
The word "making" has roots in Old English and Germanic languages. The Old English term "macian" and the Old High German term "mahhōn" meant "to prepare", "to construct", or "to create".
