MKF considers proposals by invitation only. We search for institutions that demonstrate strong organizational leadership, evidence of past and current impact, financial soundness and the capacity to implement initiatives and evaluate their success.

We recognize that our policy of not considering unsolicited requests places a heavy obligation on our staff to consult widely and remain appraised of significant developments and work being done in the fields we have identified for emphasis.

Before we give a grant, we work with organizations to achieve a joint understanding of how success will be measured, understanding that some setbacks are a necessary consequence of taking appropriate risks. We strive to support the organizations we work with by offering technical assistance in such areas as communications, finance and organizational development.