Office of the Foundation Liaison

Purpose & Impact

Michigan's non-partisan Office of Foundation Liaison (OFL) was created in 2003 at the suggestion of foundation leaders and with support from newly elected Governor Jennifer Granholm. This cabinet level position - unique in the nation - helps to identify and broker strategic partnerships between the state and foundations likely to result in policy reforms that would improve the lives of children and families in Michigan.

The OFL is funded by foundations. It does not serve as a fundraiser for state government.

OFL's Objectives

Educate state officials about foundations
Forge relationships and support the development of partnerships between the state and foundations
Attract new national grant dollars to Michigan
Respond to opportunities for new local and regional public/private partnerships to serve people and the implementation of government programs

Accomplishments

Since its inception, the OFL has brokered over $80 million in foundation investment in initiatives designed to help increase Michigan's economic competitiveness through reforms in

K-16 Education
Economic Development, including Workforce Development
Health
Early Childhood
Land Use

Michigan’s OFL has also inspired similar liaison positions around the U.S. in Newark, NJ and in New Mexico.

Governance

The OFL is governed by an Advisory Committee of contributing funders; the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF), its fiscal agent; and a member of the governor’s executive staff.