Help Shape Maryland’s Nonprofit Policy Agenda for 2026

Nonprofit partners and community advocates — your insights are needed now more than ever. As we move through an already challenging 2025 and into an uncertain election year, Maryland Nonprofits is asking organizations across the state to weigh in on key public policy priorities for 2026.

Take the Survey Here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2026PolicySurvey

Why This Matters to Baltimore’s Nonprofit Sector

Nonprofits in Baltimore and across the country are facing significant uncertainty around federal funding, economic conditions, and state-level resource allocations. The results from BDO’s Spring Nonprofit Pulse Survey (July 2025) underline some sobering trends:

Top Concerns of Nonprofit Leaders:

  • Economic instability remains the #1 concern, with many nonprofits already forced to scale back or restructure.

  • Federal funding cuts and shifting federal policy under the current administration have placed essential programs at risk — especially those supporting underserved communities.

  • Funding stability is rapidly declining, while demand for nonprofit services is rising.

Baltimore CONNECT sees these challenges up close, through our member organizations, partners, and the community-based initiatives we support. Whether it’s food access, youth employment, or mental health — the policy landscape directly shapes what resources are available and how we serve our neighborhoods.

What the Survey Asks:

  • What policy issues are most urgent for your organization in 2026?

  • How have federal-level decisions impacted your funding and operations?

  • Are you facing delays or issues with state grant payments?

  • What should be prioritized in Annapolis and Washington?

This is your chance to inform Maryland Nonprofits' policy agenda, elevate issues impacting Baltimore, and advocate for equity, funding reform, and sustainable support.

Who Should Fill This Out?

Please ensure someone in your organization — ideally a program director, executive leader, or advocacy coordinator — completes this short survey. Responses will help Maryland Nonprofits advocate more effectively on your behalf in Annapolis and beyond.

We Need to Show Up, Speak Out, and Plan Ahead

With state revenue shortfalls, rising operational costs, and uncertainty around federal allocations, it’s critical that community-rooted voices inform the decisions ahead. Your input helps protect programs, influence legislation, and bring equity-focused, evidence-based solutions to the forefront.

Let’s stand together — stronger, smarter, and louder — for Baltimore and all Maryland communities.

Minli Guo