ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman released a Nonprofit Impact Report generated from the inaugural Bridging Communities Conference, which convened more than 300 people representing more than 100 nonprofits and government agencies. Attendees and presenters gathered in June to explore ways government and nonprofits can work more effectively to serve Marylanders. The Bridging Communities conference was hosted by the Office of the Comptroller in collaboration with Health LeadHer, Maryland Nonprofits, the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, and the United Way of Central Maryland and was designed to serve nonprofits relying primarily on government support and charitable giving. Conference sessions focused on grant writing, financial management, organization sustainability, and organizational development.
“Building partnerships between government and nonprofits is essential as we work to create a stronger future and an economy that works for everyone,” Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman said. “I am confident the new and ongoing partnerships forged through the conference will bridge the gaps between us and help build a state that is more equitable, more resilient, and more prosperous so that every Marylander can reach their full potential.”
The Nonprofit Conference Impact Report highlights key takeaways from conference sessions, including:
- The need for smaller nonprofit organizations to have diversified revenue streams to strengthen organizational sustainability
- The importance of partnerships and collaboration for nonprofits to achieve shared goals
- Navigating complex regulatory environments
- Short-term grant opportunities
- Effective use of technology
“The Building Bridges Conference created new relationships and opportunities for partners in government and nonprofits to find each other,” Maryland Nonprofits President and CEO Heather Iliff said. “Maryland Nonprofits is delighted to be part of this effort to bring our sectors together for the greater good. I appreciate the Comptroller’s follow-through in producing this report. It highlights key topics explored at the conference and provides an important snapshot of the impact of nonprofits on Maryland’s economy and well-being.”
As of October 2024, there are 40,736 active tax-exempt organizations in Maryland. The report’s insights are expected to assist nonprofit organizations in Maryland in their operations and development and support an environment where organizations effectively serve and positively impact Marylanders over the long term.
Read the Nonprofit Impact Report here
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