The W.K. Kellogg Foundation recently announced it helped 22 nonprofit groups raise more than $2.2 million in 10 days through its Cultures of Giving Donor Challenge. The challenge was inspired by the foundation's report, "Cultures of Giving: Energizing and Expanding Philanthropy by and for Communities of Color," which explored the impact of community-based fundraising.

In particular, the report pointed out the power of identity-based philanthropy, through which communities are likely to offer financial support to groups acting on their behalf.

The foundation offered to match nonprofit fundraising from community giving up to $20,000. By the end of the 10-day challenge, the organizations had garnered more than $1.3 million in support from 3,421 donors, while the Kellogg Foundation contributed $915,000. 

"The Challenge was a success because it really engaged grassroots participation," said Dr. Alandra Washington, of the WKKF. "This will serve as a model for what communities can do to help themselves and their causes in the social media realm."

Other foundations might benefit from updated account management when participating in challenge grants. Nonprofit financial management software and web-based services can help nonprofits raise funds online and track giving more accurately.