We evaluate convening proposals across the dimensions outlined below. Strong proposals typically demonstrate all of these elements. We encourage prospective applicants to use this page as a self-assessment tool when considering whether their convening idea is ready to bring to the Bellagio Center.
- Strategic Alignment and Charitable Purpose: Successful convenings should be clearly aligned with The Rockefeller Foundation’s mission and strategic priorities, and should advance a demonstrably charitable purpose. Strong proposals articulate how the convening will contribute to improving the well-being of underserved or vulnerable populations and how its intended outcomes connect to a broad strategy for change.
- Clearly Defined Convening Purpose: Successful convenings are grounded in a clear purpose that unlocks a specific, meaningful step forward within a broader body of work. Strong proposals clearly define what the convening is intended to achieve, explain why a convening is the right vehicle for that achievement, and show how this gathering fits within a longer-term strategy beyond the convening itself.
- Clear Path to Impact: Successful convenings articulate a clear and credible path from convening outcomes to real-world impact. Strong proposals describe the specific outputs the convening will produce, how those outputs will advance a solution or goal beyond the convening itself, and how this body of work is positioned to drive a breakthrough in a field, system, institution, or discourse.
- Demonstrated Solution Demand: Successful convenings are grounded in a clear understanding of where demand for a solution comes from and who must ultimately adopt, implement, fund, or advance it. Strong proposals articulate a thoughtful perspective on the demand landscape and outline a credible plan to engage key stakeholders before, during, and after the convening.
- Engaged Participants: Successful convenings bring together a deliberately selected group of participants who represent the stakeholders required to advance the work’s long-term goals. Strong proposals explain why each participant group is essential, how participants are positioned to influence outcomes, and how they will remain actively engaged in advancing the work beyond the convening.
**Note: Bellagio Center convenings are capped at 21 or 22 participants, depending on the facility. Read more about our facilities and accommodations. There are no exceptions to this rule. - Timely and Action-Oriented: Successful convenings are held at a catalytic moment for the work that uniquely accelerates momentum. Strong proposals explain why the convening is needed now, what progress or decisions it is intended to unlock, and how the convening can serve as an inflection point by strengthening a solution, building partnerships, or mobilizing new resources to scale a tested solution.
- Strong Execution and Follow-Through Capacity: Successful convenings are led by organizations with the capacity to plan, resource, and execute the convening effectively and to support sustained progress afterward. Strong proposals demonstrate that the organizing team has the time, staffing, partnerships, and infrastructure in place to manage both convening delivery and post-convening follow-through.
**Note: The Rockefeller Foundation may support convening teams with modest travel support for eligible participants, ground transportation from Milan to the Bellagio Center, a dedicated convening lead on-site, and strategic convening design guidance and resources.
Convenings cannot be used to directly or indirectly advance any lobbying or political campaign activity, as defined by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. We expect convening organizers to plan and also facilitate their convenings in strict compliance with these rules.
For any further questions, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
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