What is the Grounding Values Study?

NACEDA and the Urban Institute are conducting a three-year research study (2021-2023) on the financial health, programs, production, and services of community-based development organizations (CBDOs) throughout the United States. All data, findings, and methodology will be made public. View the Grounding Values Advisory Committee.

We will use the study to develop:

• Resources: This research will help the community development sector target resources, advocate for new funding structures, and reimagine relationships with investors and resources.
• Capability: The results will be used to test key hypotheses about how community-based development organizations are meeting community needs and industry expectations.
• Adaptability: The study will help our sector prepare for social and economic changes driven by climate change, calls for racial justice, and shifts in local market conditions
• Leadership: We will use the results to support diverse leaders currently emerging in our sector as they meet this moment in history.

1^st Report on CBDOs Based on Tax Data

The Financial Health of Community-Based Development Organizations Health includes a summary report, 140 state and regional fact sheets, and a technical report. The full data set from the financial analysis is available for download. Use the findings to support your advocacy, fundraising, and capacity building goals in your geographic area.

1^st National Survey of CBDOs Since 2005

The survey asked community development nonprofits questions about their programs, production, and services. It closed on November 4 and a report is forthcoming. The results will tell a powerful story about community development nonprofits and provide data to increase the flow of resources.

What's Next?

In the coming months, NACEDA will release a series of issue briefs that explore the identity of the community development sector, examine trends in the field, and provide insights into improving financial health of community development nonprofits. 

Community-Based Development Organizations (CBDOs) are private, nonprofit, community-based organizations that 1) develop housing, commercial, industrial or community facilities, or 2) support business development. Their work generally involves projects and programs aimed at improving the lives of lower-income people or the communities in which they live. Organizations that provide social services but also do development are included in this survey.

Become a Grounding Values Partner!