What is the Advancing Macomb Nonprofit Accelerator?
The Nonprofit Accelerator is a four-month program that equips nonprofit leaders with essential
skills and resources to enhance their impact. The program is designed to support small to mid-
size nonprofits in Macomb County through hands-on curriculum, mentorship, peer networking
and access to resources.
Who is eligible to apply?
Nonprofits must be based in Macomb County or serve its residents, be registered as 501(c)(3)
organizations (or have a fiscal sponsor) and have annual operating budgets between $0-$250k.
As an organization, one of Advancing Macomb’s core values is equity. We believe that
disparities in our communities can be resolved by prioritizing support for organizations that face
barriers to success, empowering diverse community leaders and creating an inclusive
environment. Priority will be given to BIPOC-led (Black, Indigenous, and people of color-led)
organizations and those serving high-poverty or ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained,
Employed) populations. However, all qualified organizations are encouraged to apply.
What is the application deadline and program timeline?
Applications must be submitted by February 15, 2026. Accepted participants will be notified by March 2, 2026, and the program will kick off on March 17, 2026.
What does the program include?
The Accelerator offers a cohort-based learning experience, featuring 4 to 6 meetings per month (both in-person and virtual) from March to June 2026. Participants will engage with regional experts and receive ongoing coaching and resources.
What is the schedule for the Spring 2026 cohort?
Spring 2026 Accelerator Session Schedule
The Accelerator cohort will meet a total of 14 times. The majority of sessions will be hosted virtually via Zoom, with select sessions held in person at locations within Macomb County (exact locations TBD).
In-Person Sessions
- Tue, March 17 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Sat, March 21 — 10:00am–1:00pm
Two of the following dates:
- Sat, April 11 — 10:00am–1:00pm
- Sat, April 25 — 10:00am–1:00pm
- Sat, May 2 — 10:00am–1:00pm
- Sat, May 16 — 10:00am–1:00pm
And Fri, June 5 — 5:30–7:30pm
Virtual Sessions
- Tue, March 24 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, March 31 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, April 7 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, April 14 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, April 21 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, May 5 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, May 19 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, May 26 — 5:30–7:30pm
- Tue, June 2 — 5:30–7:30pm
Schedule is subject to minor modifications prior to program launch.
What topics are covered in the program curriculum?
The program covers a wide range of topics, including nonprofit leadership, governance,
inclusion, fundraising, public policy, data-driven planning, financial oversight and more.
Curriculum adjustments may be made based on participant needs.
How many nonprofits will be accepted into the program?
Up to 10 Macomb-based nonprofits will be selected to participate in the Accelerator’s second
cohort.
How will organizations be selected?
To ensure a strong fit, organizations must meet the eligibility and application criteria outlined in
our guidelines. Additionally, we will consider the mix of services provided and the communities
served to create a well-rounded, diverse cohort. For example, if all selected groups focused
solely on animal care and safety, it could limit the program's overall diversity and impact.
What is required to apply?
Applicants must provide their organization’s mission and vision, a description of their community
impact, details on their capacity-building challenges and a commitment statement identifying the
1-2 representatives who will actively participate in the cohort. You may also preview the
questions at the form link below.
Is there a cost to participate in the program?
No. The Spring 2026 Nonprofit Accelerator is free for all organizations selected to join the cohort. Additionally, Advancing Macomb will award funding to participating organizations upon the successful completion of the program.
How can I apply?
Applications must be submitted online via the application link by February 15, 2026.
What if I don’t have a nonprofit yet but I want to start one?
The Nonprofit Accelerator is designed for organizations that are already incorporated as
nonprofits. If you haven’t taken that step yet, this program may not be the right fit – much of the
content is geared toward more advanced organizational development.
“This was an amazing opportunity, and I look forward to sharing more in upcoming months and
the upcoming year about things that we've implemented, as a result of the program. The wealth
of knowledge, resources, and support we received is invaluable and I am truly grateful and
appreciative of the opportunity to serve as a cohort participant.”
— Kimberly Elms (President and CEO, Elms Family and Community Services)
Advancing Macomb’s offers other programs that may be of interest:
To receive announcements about Advancing Macomb’s programs, sign up for our mailing list: https://advancingmacomb.com/events/
