ICMA’S Future of Professional Management Fund

Support the Plan, Grow the Profession

The Future of Local Government Governance Starts Here

Make your gift of $100+ by Oct 31st and unlock an anonymous bonus contribution!

DONATE $100+ & Unlock Bonus Contribution

The Fund’s Mission

Contributions to The Fund are essential for ethical, accountable, and resilient communities worldwide. Professional local management ensures public trust and sustainable growth—but it requires a constant pipeline of highly ethical, engaged leaders. The Fund is the engine for this development. We invest in the next generation of managers and administrators, equipping them to champion the Council-Manager plan. Donate now to cultivate the leaders who will keep our communities efficient and accountable for years to come.

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Advocating for professional management and the council-manager plan is central to ICMA’s mission. We have been dedicated to this effort for over 100 years, and your support ensures that legacy continues."

Julia D. Novak Executive Director, ICMA

Our Core Values: Upholding the Pillars of Professional Management

Your investment ensures we uphold the principles that define local government excellence.

Professional Excellence

Championing the Highest Standards

We invest in the education and practices that ensure ethical, efficient, and professional administration in local governments nationwide.

Community Empowerment

Investing in Strong Communities

Our support directly sustains the research and outreach that keeps communities resilient, accountable, and prepared for sustainable growth.

Stewardship & Legacy

Building for the Next Generation

We secure the future of strong local government by advocating for professional management that benefits communities for generations to come.

Trust & Accountability

Earning Public Confidence

We champion the governance structures, like the council-manager form, that build public trust and ensure transparent, ethical leadership.

Leadership Development

Cultivating Future Leaders

We are dedicated to creating a robust pipeline of engaged, ethical, and innovative leaders who will champion the public good.

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I believe deeply that we are here to make the world a better place. The mission of The Fund supports what I have seen in my career serving nationally, internationally, and as ICMA President. I witnessed the important work professional managers do all over the world, and the Fund is helping to grow that impact.

Peggy Merriss, Executive Director, Georgia City-County Management Association and 1914 Founder

Impact Spotlight: The Fund in Action

Your gift ensures that the value of professional local government is heard nationwide. This includes funding our vital research, creating public awareness campaigns, and producing high-quality media to educate policymakers and future managers.

The Fund in Action

Professional management is constantly under pressure. Your support is vital for defending the council-manager form and advancing ethical leadership. See how The Fund is responding to the latest challenges in communities across the nation.

From the Ballot Box: April 2025

From the Ballot Box: November 2024

From the Ballot Box: November 2023

From the Ballot Box: November 2022

From the Ballot Box: November 2021

From the Ballot Box: November 2018 Election Results

Listen to the Latest Episode on How Ethical Governance Builds Public Trust

Advocacy Win: Why Council-Manager Government Matters Now More Than Ever

Hear directly from Phil Kiraly and ICMA CEO Julia D. Novak on a recent successful advocacy campaign in Illinois. This episode of Voices in Local Government shows how The Fund supports critical defense of the council-manager form and educates citizens.

Listen Now

Invest in the Future: Ways to Support the Fund

Invest in Advocacy

Fund critical, proactive efforts to defend professional management and the council-manager form against political challenges. Your support ensures we have a voice where policy is decided.

Invest in Leadership

Support the development of ethical leaders and the retention of professional managers worldwide. We provide training, mentorship, and career resources to build the next generation.

Invest in Education

Ensure that new and aspiring managers understand the core tenets of ethical public service and sound administration. Your contributions fuel scholarships and specialized learning opportunities.

Community of Gratitude: Our Supporters

Your generosity is the foundation of our work. We proudly recognize the individuals and organizations whose commitments help us advance the profession.

Individual Donors

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Organizations Donors

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Questions About Giving

How does my donation make a difference right now?: Your contribution is immediately put to work across our three pillars: Advocacy, Leadership, and Education. It provides critical, flexible funding for urgent opportunities that build public trust and raise awareness of professional management.
How can I request a tax contribution letter?: Tax contribution letters are automatically sent to all donors who require one (based on the IRS threshold) by the end of January. For immediate requests, please contact fund@icma.org
I'm considering a major gift. Who should I speak to?: We would be delighted to speak with you. Please contact fund@icma.org to discuss your intended gift and its potential impact.
How can I review my lifetime Fund contributions?: To access your complete contribution history, please contact our Donor Services team at fund@icma.org and provide your name and ICMA Member ID (if applicable) for verification.
How does The Fund ensure transparency and accountability?: We are committed to financial transparency. The Fund operates under the oversight of our Board of Directors and is subject to annual independent audits. You can review our latest Annual Report and Financial Statements.
How can I leave a lasting legacy through my estate or will?: You can ensure the future of professional local government by including The Fund in your will, trust, or estate plan. Your long-term commitment creates permanent impact. You may also dedicate your gift to remember or honor loved ones by supporting the profession they valued. Example: The generosity of Bob Turner helped fund the vital research program used by hundreds of communities today. For confidential information about making a planned gift, please contact fund@icma.org to discuss your intended gift and its potential impact.

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