Case study on the Regroupement DEI Qc – Different perspectives on investments related to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)

Justification of research project

Our research focuses on the Grouping of foundations for the deepening of the DEI posture in their organization. Given its emerging character, it is a name of the group that we use to designate a collaboration that has not yet had an official name. The group is made up of five Montreal-based foundations that have come together to collect a set of comparable data related to how the DEI is implemented in their organization.

The central research question is as follows: What lessons can be learned from the emergence process that led to the development and use of a tool for measuring DEI practices developed by the group of foundations participating in the study?

The main objective of the research is to document the reflection and observation of the application of the DEI measurement tool in each of the foundations collaborating in this research. The reflection, led by the professional teams of each of the foundations involved in this collaboration, led to the development of a tool to measure the consideration of the DEI issue in the granting of grants.

The idea, for the professional teams involved, is to be able to quantify the integration of the DEI posture in the grants.

Research question

How can community foundations particularly the Foundation of Greater Montreal integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into their internal practices and funding strategies to better serve historically marginalized populations?

Research purpose

The project seeks to understand how community foundations can promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their structures, practices, and community relationships. It examines systemic barriers within Montreal’s philanthropic sector and identifies key levers for transforming philanthropy into a more equitable, inclusive, and representative field.

Research approach

• Literature review on philanthropy, DEI, and inclusive governance

• Document analysis (internal policies, grantmaking practices, strategic plans)

• Semi-structured interviews with staff, board members, and community grantees

• Participatory approach involving experts from underrepresented communities

• Comparative study with practices from other Canadian and international foundations