Foundation for Chapter Leaders

SIM Foundation Purpose

The SIM Foundation is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization connected to the Society for Information Management. The purpose of the organization is to increase philanthropy on a national level with an emphasis on STEM education and to enable local SIM chapters in their efforts to give back to the organizations that benefit their local causes. The SIM Foundation also raises money nationally that is given to non-profit partners and in matching grants to chapters.

About the Foundation

SIM Foundation is the national organization supporting SIM Chapters nationwide in their philanthropic efforts. The SIM Foundation provides:

  • A 501(c)(3) that chapters can use for their non-profit efforts
  • A national alliance to two premier STEM-related non-profits: NPower and FIRST bringing added visibility and partner opportunities
  • Direct funding to NPower and FIRST through donations and sponsorship received at the national level
  • Visibility to the collective SIM philanthropic contributions, both time and money
  • Matching grants to chapters for their specific philanthropic partners
  • A bridge between chapters on best practices, tools, and relationships for fundraising events, specifically Golf and Summit events

How the Foundation can help your Chapter realize its Philanthropic Goals

For more information on any of the items below, please contact the SIM Foundation staff. The contact information for the SIM Foundation Staff is here.

501(c)3:

The SIM Foundation has a structure in place that will allow your chapter to collect tax-deductible 501(c)3 donations and in turn distribute them to eligible recipients. This service is provided at no cost to your chapter and 100% of the funds collected may be distributed to your local eligible recipients. This will allow your chapter to collect and distribute funds as a 501(c)3 without the overhead of creating a separate non-profit entity.

National Fundraising:

The SIM Foundation raises funds annually, primarily through two key events: the SIM TechExec Conference and the online auction held in conjunction with the conference.

Philanthropy Partners:

The SIM Foundation has partnered with NPower and FIRST, offering chapters exciting opportunities to engage with these impactful non-profits. If your chapter is interested in getting involved, the SIM Foundation can provide guidance on how to collaborate effectively and connect you with local contacts.

Chapter Philanthropy Efforts:

SIM Foundation tracks the time and money donated to non-profits annually through a web form that is regularly distributed to Chapter Outreach Chairs. If you want to receive a link to the form, please reach out to the SIM Foundation staff.

Matching Grants:

Since 2021, the SIM Foundation has offered matching grants to chapters. The application period typically runs from January to April. If you're interested in applying, please reach out to the SIM Foundation staff for more information and assistance.

Best Practices:

The SIM Foundation can connect chapters hosting similar events, facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration. In 2024, we are compiling chapter playbooks for Golf and Summit events, which will be available to assist with planning and execution.