Private Foundation Service
Foundation Advisory Calls
Expert guidance on private foundation operations, compliance, and grantmaking. One-on-one calls on your schedule.
$275/hour
1-hour minimum. Book directly below.
What You Get
- Scheduled call with topic submitted in advance
- Expert guidance on foundation-specific challenges
- Follow-up summary email with key takeaways and resources
- Confidential, one-on-one consultation
Common Topics
- Excise tax questions and compliance concerns
- Distribution requirements and mandatory distribution calculations
- 990-PF preparation guidance and filing strategy
- Grantmaking compliance and grant procedures
- Self-dealing rules and prohibited transactions
- Investment policies and diversification requirements
- Board governance and meeting procedures
- Operational procedures and documentation
- Succession planning and leadership transitions
- Foundation spending and strategic planning
About the Price
Foundation advisory work requires specialized knowledge of IRC Chapter 42, excise taxes, and distribution rules. We charge $275/hour—below foundation attorney rates ($300–$500/hour) and well below the complexity premium for this expertise.
1-hour minimum. You can book multiple hours if you need more time.
Better Fit?
If you need less than $275 of guidance, check out our Governance Review ($2,000) for a full assessment. If you need ongoing support, consider the Management Retainer (starting at $1,500/mo).
How It Works
1. Book your call
Use the calendar below to select a time that works for you. Add your topic so we can prepare.
2. Prepare (optional)
If you have documents you want to discuss—a 990-PF, bylaws, board minutes, a grant proposal—send them our way a day or two before the call. Not required, but it helps us prepare better.
3. Call
We'll send you a meeting link. Join on time. Ask your questions. We'll guide you through the answers and help you think through next steps.
4. Follow-up
Within 24 hours, you'll get an email recap with key takeaways, action items, and resources.
Who This Is For
Board members and trustees
You have a specific question about governance, compliance, or grantmaking and need expert input—without hiring a lawyer or signing a long-term contract.
Foundation staff
You're implementing new processes, preparing the 990-PF, or working through a grantmaking question and need guidance from someone who does this work regularly.
Advisors to foundations
Attorneys, accountants, and other professionals sometimes need to consult with a specialist on foundation operations. We're available for those conversations.
People in transition
You've inherited a foundation or are stepping into a new role. Instead of booking a full engagement, test the waters with a call or two.
Book Your Call
Select a time below. When prompted, add your topic in the message field so we can prepare. You'll receive a confirmation and meeting link via email.
Calendly embed will be inserted here. Contact us if you have questions about scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I schedule a call?
Book your call using our Calendly link (embedded below). Choose a time that works for you, add your topic in advance, and we'll send you a meeting link. Minimum 1 hour.
What should I prepare for the call?
Send us your topic in advance (when booking) so we can prepare. If you have specific documents you want to discuss, share them a day or two before the call. But don't stress—we can also have a more open conversation if you're not sure exactly what you need.
Will I get a summary after the call?
Yes. Within 24 hours you'll get an email recap with key takeaways and any resources or action items we discussed.
Is this call confidential?
Absolutely. This is consulting work between you and us. Nothing leaves the call unless you choose to share it.
Can I use this to get legal advice?
No. We provide expert operational and compliance guidance, not legal advice. If your question requires legal expertise, we'll be clear about that and help you identify when you need a lawyer.
What if my question takes more than an hour?
You can book multiple calls. Many clients schedule regular sessions for ongoing guidance or complex projects. You can also move to the Foundation Management Retainer (starting at $1,500/mo) if you need more frequent access.
How much do these calls actually cost compared to attorneys?
Foundation attorneys typically charge $300–$500/hour. We charge $275/hour for specialized foundation expertise. You're getting experienced guidance at a rate below what you'd pay for legal counsel—and we can answer operational questions that attorneys often aren't the right resource for anyway.
Related Articles
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Read more →Have a Foundation Question?
Book a one-on-one call to get expert guidance on your specific challenge.