National Standards

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations accreditation program certifies U.S. community foundations that meet and exceed federal and state law requirements in practice and by policy. The accreditation process is rigorous, and undertaking it demonstrates a community foundation’s commitment to accountability and excellence to its donors, its community, policymakers, and the public.

The Accreditation Seal is only awarded to those community foundations that continue to meet comprehensive standards. Those receiving the Accreditation Seal have demonstrated their commitment to the success and well-being of every cause and person they support, and are willing and able to stand by every grant they have made. The Accreditation Seal signals to donors and to their professional advisers that a community foundation is a sound place to give and make a difference.

Learn more about the National Standards Accreditation Program here.

To participate in the Endow Iowa and/or the County Endowment Fund Program, a community foundation in Iowa must be a nationally accredited community foundation or be affiliated with a nationally accredited community foundation.