Donors seeking to be knowledgeable about the field, or sector, into which they are giving can benefit from a comprehensive scan of "who is doing what." This provides profound insight into various options and helps a donor identify the place to plug in.

To meet this need, Calvin Edwards & Company plans and conducts customized research on nonprofit sectors, domestically and internationally. This involves developing a survey methodology, creating the instrument, collecting nonprofit data, and performing statistical analysis. Research findings, which often include recommendations, are presented in a comprehensive report. Donors rely on such sector surveys to understand the “landscape” into which they are giving, to study issues and challenges, and to identify potential grantees.

Another obstacle donors face is fear that their funds won’t be used wisely or for their intended purpose. The task of strategic giving generates many questions for the donor. Are funds spent wisely? What are the organizational capabilities? Can the organization still operate if it doesn’t achieve all its fundraising goals? What is the track record of the senior executive? Donors who have long-standing relationships with organizations are sometimes hesitant to raise such issues.

The firm also performs specialized ad-hoc research in narrowly defined areas. By providing deep expertise in areas such as board governance, risk mitigation, compensation, finance and accounting practices, organizational strategy, and other fields, we assist clients to make critical decisions.

The majority of nonprofits are run with the best intentions and the desire to do good work. Yet, we believe that in order for the value of giving to be maximized, donors must have clear information and solid understanding—of an organization's problems and obstacles, as well as its outcomes and successes.