Survey Results: The Economic Crisis’ Impact on Michigan Foundations

In December 2008 CMF collected information on how our members are being impacted by the current economic crisis.

Summary of Key Findings

• 44% expect their assets to decrease 20-30%
• 57% said they do not expect to change their asset allocation strategy
• 67% expect to have less grant dollars available for 2009
• 61% plan to increase their foundation’s community engagement
• 82% will be cutting operational costs

Key Cost Cutting Strategies

• 74% will cut professional development
• 71% will cut travel
• 23% expect to cut staff

Key Strategies Foundations Plan to Undertake

• 75% will promote nonprofit collaborations/partnerships/mergers
• 69% will collaborate with other funders
• 65% will prioritize funding for certain types of grantees

Assistance CMF Will Offer

• Provide learning on how other foundations are dealing with the crisis
• More webinar trainings in the areas of investment, operational, grantmaking and development strategies
• Provide leadership techniques for working with non-profits to collaborate and consolidate.

Review detailed survey results. (available to CMF members only)