Aspen CSG partners with Rural Development Hubs across the country to strengthen local leadership, align funding, and build regional capacity. Through research and peer learning, we support Hub leaders to refine strategies and apply what works across regions.
In Michigan, we work with Hub partners that coordinate across sectors, align resources, and connect communities to advance long-term regional strategies:
The Barry Community Foundation is in the business of building bridges between donor intent and community needs. As an organization, they utilize the Seven Elements of a Healthy Community Framework to leverage assets to maximize community impact.
Northern Initiatives provides money and know-how to small business owners throughout Michigan. They support business startups, business expansions and greater empowerment for everyone living in under-invested communities. Access to capital is only part of the equation though. Northern Initiatives provides coaching, resources and tools to help customers achieve their goals.
The Pennies from Heaven Foundation is a family foundation focused on serving the greatest needs of the local community. They aim to create a path to self-sufficiency that will allow all people and families the opportunity, ability, means and support to cross the bridge out of poverty. Through grants, capital investments, and collaborative initiatives, they strengthen local nonprofits, expand access to basic needs like food and housing, and invest in education and workforce development to help build stronger, more resilient communities.
The Keweenaw Community Foundation works to support a thriving Keweenaw community by connecting local needs with resources through collaborative philanthropy aimed at improving quality of life. It assists donors in achieving their charitable goals by offering pathways like establishing or supporting funds, planned giving, scholarships, and grantmaking tailored to local priorities.
The Keweenaw Community Foundation participated in Aspen CSG’s 2025 Rural Development Hubs Summit, which informs our work, including: The Power of Connection: Rural Development Hubs in Action
Partridge Creek Farm, situated in Ishpeming, MI, is a non-profit organization established in 2013. Over the years, their initiatives have expanded to include extensive educational programs along with the management of four community garden sites and one 3.75 acre farm site.
Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is a 20-year limited-life foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life in the communities founder Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. loved and called home – Southeast Michigan and Western New York. Their strategic investments are guided by community voice, powered by strong partnerships, and rooted in a commitment to inspire and drive meaningful change beyond our closing in 2035.
