Our Work

The CIFD uses its proximity to and expertise of Denver’s public and private sectors to advance community-led projects, improve organizational effectiveness and build capacity among nonprofits that are making a difference on the issues that matter most to Denverites.

How We Do It

Advancing Public-Private Partnerships

Working in alignment with the goals of the City & County of Denver, the CIFD identifies nonprofits working to address our community’s biggest challenges and connects them to the funding, resources and cross-sector partnerships that move their mission forward through collaboration.

Funding Capacity Building

The CIFD funds capacity building for nonprofits that are working towards solutions for community-identified issues. We prioritize small, community-based nonprofits that provide services and resources for Denverites.

Supporting Community-Led Projects

The CIFD strengthens the City and County’s investment in Denver’s nonprofit sector by directing resources to local organizations that provide quality services for Denverites.

Research and Resources that Guide our Work

A Review of Mayor’s Funds

This table summarizes the data collected on Mayor’s Funds as a Mayor’s Fund was the original conception for CIFD. Six cities were researched, and we looked at aspects such as: leadership, structure (501c3), year started, how they are funded, funding priorities, and major projects. Comments and takeaways were also summarized.

State of Nonprofits 2023 – What Funders Need to Know

From The Center for Effective
Philanthropy

Overcoming the Racial Bias in Philanthropic Funding

From Stanford Social Innovation Review

A Trust-Based Approach

Trust-Based Philanthropy Project

The Well-Being of Nonprofits in Denver

From Denver Office of Nonprofit Engagement