Investment and spending policies
We have a diversified asset allocation and set high performance standards for our investment managers. During the past decade, the Foundation has increased the proportion of alternative investments while decreasing its fixed income allocation.
Total fund return (as of 3/31/2026)
- 1 Year: 15.4%
- 5 Year: 8.2%
- 10 Year: 9.8%
- 20 Year: 7.5%
The board of directors annually reviews the Foundation's spending policy to ensure that our endowment continues to grow as we work to meet the needs of the people of Rhode Island. Our current spending policy of between 5.5 and 5.75 percent (including a support fee) is calculated over a 16-quarter trailing average. This allows us to provide a predictable stream of grants, while maintaining a prudent rate of endowment growth.
Maximizing impact in the community
We are committed to carefully managing our operating expenses with the goal of maximizing our investments in Rhode Island. Our operating expenses average approximately 1% of our total assets, which is well within industry standards for community foundations.
Recent financial documents
The Rhode Island Foundation is accredited through the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program—an independent certification that recognizes our commitment to strong governance, integrity, and accountability. This accreditation reflects our dedication to operating at the highest standards of transparency and stewardship in service to our community.
The Foundation's work is guided by our Five-Year Action Plan.
We have undergone a comprehensive effort to solicit community input, aimed at informing an evolved mission and Five-Year Action Plan. Learn more about what we discovered matters most to Rhode Islanders, and how we can best apply our resources and capabilities to address community priorities.