Restoring Power, Trust, and Results Where People Live
The Local Democracy Project is a statewide, nonpartisan initiative of the Michigan Municipal League (MML) and the MML Foundation to strengthen democracy at the local level in communities across Michigan.
We define local democracy as decision‑making that happens close to people, where residents can participate, know their leaders, see results, and build trust through shared problem‑solving.
The Project integrates:
- A Human‑Scale Democracy Speaker & Learning Series that convenes leaders around practical, local strategies for rebuilding trust; and
- Bridge Builders Microgrants, a proven MML Foundation initiative that funds small, resident‑led and Main Street projects that bring people together across divides.
We plan to partner closely with community foundations, private philanthropy, corporate partners, nonprofit organizations and League member communities in the implementation of this initiative.
Together, these elements move democracy from abstract ideals to visible, local action that residents can see and experience in their daily lives.
Why This, Why Now
Polarization and mistrust are eroding confidence in our institutions. Yet at the local level, democracy remains the arena where residents most tangibly encounter government—at zoning hearings, council meetings, and on Main Streets.
Michigan communities need:
- Practical tools for inclusive, trust‑building engagement;
- Support for resident‑led action that turns neighbors into collaborators; and
- Cross‑sector partnerships that align local government, philanthropy, business, and residents around shared outcomes.
The Local Democracy Project directly addresses these needs by pairing learning and leadership with funding for concrete projects on the ground.
More to come...