Advancing Macomb Welcomes Second Cohort of Nonprofit Accelerator Program
Advancing Macomb has launched the second cohort of its Nonprofit Accelerator Program, a leadership development initiative designed to strengthen the capacity, sustainability and impact of small to mid-sized nonprofit organizations serving Macomb County residents.
Following a successful inaugural session earlier this year, the fall 2025 cohort brings together 10 organizations representing a broad range of community missions — from arts and culture and youth empowerment to disability inclusion and domestic violence prevention.
“The continued interest in the Nonprofit Accelerator shows just how much our local nonprofit community values opportunities to learn, connect and grow together,” said Phil Gilchrist, Executive Director of Advancing Macomb. “Each organization in this cohort is doing incredible work, and through the Accelerator, they’ll gain tools and partnerships to help them build even stronger, more resilient operations.”
The four-month program, running through December 12, 2025, combines in-person and virtual sessions on board development, fundraising, financial planning, marketing, technology and leadership. Participants will also receive one-on-one mentoring and access to local experts who provide guidance on advancing their mission and long-term sustainability.
Meet the Fall 2025 Cohort:
• A Beautiful Me, Inc. – Empowers girls and women of all ages to thrive personally and professionally through confidence-building workshops, innovative programs and special events.
• CapABLE Community Living (CCL) – Creates a safe and welcoming home where adults with developmental disabilities can live with intention, purpose and independence.
• Comprehensive Youth Services, Inc. (CYS) – Serves youth and families across Macomb and St. Clair Counties who are experiencing homelessness, housing instability, behavioral health challenges or other crises that threaten their safety and well-being.
• Conquerors Cares Outreach – Strengthens families and neighborhoods in Macomb County through programs in education, wellness, family support and economic empowerment.
• Her Cries Are Heard – Works to increase awareness, prevention and support for survivors of domestic violence in Macomb County.
• Her Exit, Inc. – Supports women and children escaping domestic and sexual abuse by providing emergency aid and working to expand access to transitional housing.
• Jillian’s Jay Walkers Nonprofit – Enhances the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by cystic fibrosis by providing financial assistance and compassionate support.
• Macomb Automation and Robotics Zone (MARZ) – Introduces K–12 students to careers in advanced manufacturing and robotics while fostering a pipeline of talent for the region’s employers.
• Macomb Symphony Orchestra — Enriches the cultural life of Macomb County by performing and promoting symphonic, jazz, popular and film music.
• Starkweather Arts Center – Promotes community engagement and appreciation of the arts in the Historic Village of Romeo through exhibits, programs and education.
The program’s curriculum is developed in partnership with Advancing Macomb’s partner organizations, including Nonprofit Network, Nonprofit Enterprise at Work (NEW), Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA), Co.act Detroit, Michigan Community Resources (MCR) and Velocity. Through these collaborations, Advancing Macomb aims to empower nonprofit organizations by providing best practices, valuable resources and expert insights from diverse sources.
The Nonprofit Accelerator is currently free to participating organizations, thanks to generous support from community partners including the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and the Four County Community Foundation. Graduates are paired with mentors to continue implementing what they’ve learned beyond the program.
For more information about the Nonprofit Accelerator and future cohorts, contact Meghan Rutigliano, Advancing Macomb Program Manager at meghan@advancingmacomb.com.
