Foundation and Corporate Philanthropy

We proactively share requests for letters of intent or proposals directly to faculty as well as through the Office for Research. Where there needs to be a centrally-managed approach, for example, a foundation that allows only one submission from the Institute, IA staff works with campus principals to determine best fit and strategy. Please reach out to an advancement officer with any questions. We collaborate with the Office for Research and Research Administration & Finance to find answers.

The Office of Foundation and Corporate Philanthropy at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute provides the following services – at no cost to faculty or staff:

• Develop and oversee multi-level foundation and corporate champion team strategies, convening campus leadership when necessary
• Compose RFPs and distribute targeted opportunities to relevant portfolios
• Identify, research, and connect with prospective funders; our office maintains the Institute’s subscription to the Foundation Directory
• Determine project funding viability and advise on strategy
• Prepare, review, and provide feedback on letters of inquiry and proposals
• Supply pertinent Institute information, prepare required attachments, and acquire appropriate signatures for applications and awards
• Prepare reports and oversee stewardship, including major recognition events
• Facilitate major corporate and foundation partnership visits, including briefing materials and history
• Collaborate with Institute Advancement colleagues to schedule activities to advance the priorities of the Institute
• Serve as liaisons between faculty and the Office for Research to corporate and foundation program officers to open the door for sponsored research opportunities
• Connect faculty and portfolios to peers for mentoring purposes