About Us

2012 Annual Report

The Council of Michigan Foundations recaps 2012 – a banner year – in an annual report filled with member perspectives on a wide variety of programs and services. Download today!

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The Council of Michigan Foundations is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership association of more than 350 grantmaking organizations working together to strengthen, promote and increase philanthropy in Michigan.

We are a diverse and inclusive philanthropy community that helps members network, learn, advocate, innovate and communicate to achieve greater impact. The Council of Michigan Foundations is:

• A developer of learning opportunities, knowledge resources and exemplary conferences and events
• An incubator of new foundation practices
• A pilot for national initiatives
• A partner with state and federal policymakers on behalf of Michigan philanthropy
• A centralized voice of Michigan philanthropy

The Council of Michigan Foundations does not make grants.

Our Mission

To strengthen, promote and increase philanthropy in Michigan.

Our Values

• Ethical Leadership
• Relationships
• Servant Leadership
• Knowledge
• Excellence
• Diversity & Inclusion

Our Goals

• Advocate for a legislative and regulatory environment conducive to philanthropy.
• Educate foundation staff and trustees about effective practice.
• Increase organized philanthropy in Michigan.
• Lead and support collaborative philanthropic responses to critical needs.
• Network Michigan grantmakers with each other and with grantseekers.
• Promote public understanding of and appreciation for the role of philanthropy.

Our History

Created in 1972 at the request of grantmaking organizations around Michigan, CMF was formed to represent foundation interests with state and federal officials at a time when private philanthropy was under intense scrutiny by Congress, and in response to the 1969 Congressional hearings on private foundations.

Over its 35 year history, CMF has grown to become the nation’s largest regional association of grantmakers, serving more than 350 organizational members - family foundations, corporate foundations and giving programs, independent and community foundations, and public charities of all sizes. CMF members represent 88% of the organized philanthropic assets in the state of Michigan.

Our Supporting Organization

CMF has one Type I supporting organization which is used to manage various special projects and initiatives.

• Midwest Community Foundations' Ventures