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Creating Lasting Change

Since 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. Whether you’re looking to support your favorite nonprofits, create a donor advised fund or leave a gift through your will or estate plan, we make giving easy, effective and meaningful.

MCF serves as a trusted partner for donors, nonprofits and professional advisors, ensuring that philanthropy in Madison and Dane County is accessible to all.

$23 Million

Distributed to the Community in 2024

1,304

Funds at MCF

$432.5 Million

MCF’s Total Assets

What We Do

We build endowment funds that ensure permanent support, and connect passionate donors with community needs, ensuring that every gift — large or small — makes a meaningful difference.

  • Empowering Donors

    We offer flexible giving options, including donor advised funds, legacy giving and funds that pool support for MCF’s grantmaking in a range of areas.

  • Supporting Nonprofits

    Our grants from the Community Impact fund help fund innovative nonprofit programs capitalizing on exciting opportunities and addressing urgent community needs.

  • Stewarding Community Assets

    We responsibly manage and grow endowments, ensuring long-term funding for our community and the nonprofit organizations working here.

Why Choose Madison Community Foundation?

Unlike national financial institutions, MCF is deeply rooted in Greater Madison. Our mission goes beyond managing charitable funds — we work closely with donors to drive meaningful, local impact.

  • Local Expertise

    Our team has in-depth knowledge of Madison’s nonprofit landscape to help match your giving goals with high-impact organizations.

  • Collective Impact

    Fees from fund management stay in Madison and Dane County, supporting programs that make our region stronger.

  • Accountability & Excellence

    We adhere to the highest standards set by the Community Foundations National Standards Board.

A group of grade school aged boys stands in front of a mural with animal students learning in a classroom.
Couple sits on bench overlooking Monona Bay

How You Can Get Involved

Every person has the power to create change. MCF offers multiple ways to give based on your interests and goals:

Join Us in Making a Difference

At Madison Community Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of philanthropy. By partnering with donors, fundholders and nonprofits, we are shaping a future where fairness, inclusion and respect thrive.

Start Your Giving Journey