La Piana Associates works closely with funders interested in the advancement of knowledge and practical tools for the sector. The firm develops books, workbooks, research reports, and tools for use by funders, nonprofit leaders, and consultants.

Examples of current and recent projects include:

• Tool for Assessing Startup Nonprofits: A due dilligence supplement for grantmakers — This tool, commissioned by the Packard Foundation and published by Grantmakers for Effective Organizations in June 2003, is designed for use by funders assessing a grant application from a startup nonprofit. The publication includes suggested interview questions and worksheets to supplement funders' regular due diligence of startup organizations.

  Download Tool for Assessing Startup Nonprofits in PDF format.

• Real Collaboration: A Guide for Grantmakers — Commissioned by the Ford Foundation, this practical resource helps program officers find their way through the difficulties of encouraging and supporting collaboration among their grantees. The 30-page report is available for free download here with Ford's permission.

  Download Real Collaboration in PDF format.

• The Nonprofit Mergers Workbook: The Leader's Guide to Considering, Negotiating, and Executing a Merger — Published by the Amherst Wilder Foundation in July 2000, the 240-page Workbook is the result of nearly two years of work, drawing on David La Piana's twenty years in the sector. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire merger process, from evaluating your reasons and readiness to assessing potential partners, negotiating the deal, and completing the merger. It is a thoroughly practical approach to the topic that includes dozens of useful worksheets and other tools. The Nonprofit Mergers Workbook can be ordered through Fieldstone Alliance.

  Visit our Publications Page to check out more of our publications, including monographs, briefing papers, books, and recent articles.