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The CMF Statewide Equity Fund (SEF) was established as a tool for Michigan foundations to pool resources to practice cutting-edge, equity-centered philanthropy. The support and leadership of CMF members helped our community of philanthropy explore ways to equitably shape federal and state investments in communities. The SEF Strategic Support Pilot began in 2022, supporting five regions where CMF members launched new efforts to work closely with their local governments to guide investments toward equitable outcomes within their communities – efforts that are continuing today.
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explore our Knowledge center
Browse these timely, relevant resources curated by our team of experts to deepen your knowledge of best practices, data insights and more. If you have suggested resources for inclusion in the Knowledge Center please contact our team.
Michigan Cultural Data Project
The Michigan Cultural Data Project (CDP) is a powerful, online management tool designed to strengthen arts and cultural organizations. This unique system allows users to track their own financial and programmatic performance over time and to benchmark themselves against comparable organizat
Water, Michigan and the Growing Blue Economy
In a white paper published by the Michigan Economic Center at Prima Civitas, Foundation Director John Austin defines Michigan’s “Blue Economy” and estimates the economic impact of water-based economic activity at nearly one million jobs and $60 billion annually.
10 Things Every New Foundation Board Member Should Know
The Council on Foundations, in collaboration with BoardSource, has produced an easy-to-use guide for new foundation board members.
Three Questions to Ask if You're Serious about Jobs for Youth
Government and philanthropy spend $7 billion annually on programs related to youth employment. Yet without engaging employers in shaping these programs, real progress in reducing youth unemployment isn't likely to happen. This report from The Bridgespan Group explores promising e
Nonprofit Challenges: What Foundations Can Do
Nonprofit organizations face a long list of challenges that start with fundraising and can include everything from meeting increasing demands for services to utilizing technology most effectively. Who do they turn to for assistance as they grapple with these issues?
Working Well With Grantees: A Guide for Foundation Program Staff
Working Well With Grantees: A Guide for Foundation Program Staff offers program staff critical guidelines for building better relationships with grantees.
Real Results: Why Strategic Philanthropy is Social Justice Philanthropy
The crises affecting our nation and the world have prompted philanthropists to become more organized, focused, and, perhaps above all, "strategic" in their efforts. The movement toward "strategic philanthropy" has already contributed to greater philanthropic effectiveness.
Project Streamline Grantmaker Assessment Tool
Project Streamline helps grantmakers reduce the burden of grantmaking requirements, so grants management professionals can obtain the information they need to make good grantmaking decisions and help their organizations and their grantseekers dedicate more time to mission-based work.
Diversity & Inclusion in the Foundation Boardroom: Voices of Diverse Trustees
The Council of Michigan Foundations’ presents the practical knowledge and experiences of diverse individuals who have served on Michigan foundation boards and provides a compelling context for foundations seeking to build diversity and create an inclusive culture in the boardroom.
Rhetoric Versus Reality: A Strategic Disconnect at Community Foundations
Leaders of community foundations agree on the importance of strategy, but new research indicates that few actually use it in the programmatic and donor-related work of their organizations.
Interim Executive Directors: The Power in the Middle
Poorly managed transitions can erode organizational effectiveness and service quality, and even put a nonprofit out of business.
Self-Dealing: A Concise Guide for Foundation Board and Staff
Topics covered include definitions of self-dealing and a disqualified person; most common problem areas; penalties for violations; exceptions; recommended steps for foundations in handling self-dealing issues; and additional resources.