Philanthropic Partner

Who We Are

The Baltimore Civic Fund is the City of Baltimore’s nonprofit partner for philanthropy. We work alongside the Mayor’s Office and City agencies to help align private investment with the City’s highest priorities—ensuring that philanthropic dollars are deployed strategically, transparently, and for maximum impact. 

Our Role

The Civic Fund serves as the City’s centralized hub for philanthropic coordination, providing end-to-end support for initiatives aligned with the Mayor’s priorities. We: 

  • Partner with the Mayor’s Office to identify and advance priority initiatives 

  • Work with City agencies to shape clear, funder-ready investment opportunities 

  • Coordinate donor engagement in collaboration with City leadership 

  • Receive, process, and manage philanthropic gifts 

  • Ensure compliance, accountability, and financial transparency 

  • Lead stewardship and impact reporting so funders see the results of their investment 

How the Process Works

1. City Priorities Identified 
The Mayor and Executive Team identify initiatives aligned with City priorities and suitable for philanthropic investment. 

2. Investment Readiness 
The Civic Fund works with agencies to refine scope, budgets, outcomes, and timelines—creating clear, credible funding opportunities. 

3. Donor Engagement 
The Civic Fund coordinates meetings and outreach with philanthropic partners, often alongside the Mayor and senior City leadership. 

4. Gift Management 
The Civic Fund receives and manages philanthropic contributions, ensuring proper accounting, compliance, and reporting. 

5. Stewardship & Impact 
Donors receive regular updates, outcome reporting, and engagement opportunities highlighting the impact of their investment. 

Why This Model Works

  • Clarity for Funders: One trusted partner and a unified set of priorities 

  • Alignment for the City: Philanthropy reinforces—not competes with—the City’s budget and policy goals 

  • Efficiency for Agencies: Reduced duplication and stronger fundraising support 

  • Accountability for All: Transparent reporting and disciplined stewardship 

Our Commitment to Funders 

The Civic Fund is committed to being a reliable, responsive, and accountable partner. We prioritize: 

Clear communication and expectations 

Strong financial controls and compliance 

Meaningful stewardship and recognition 

Measurable outcomes and impact reporting 

Partner With Us

Philanthropic partners can support Baltimore through targeted investments, matching opportunities, and sustaining proven programs—especially as federal and ARPA funds sunset. 

Together with the Mayor and City leadership, the Civic Fund helps turn philanthropic investment into lasting impact for Baltimore’s communities.