For almost 20 years after its founding in 1984, Consensus functioned very much like a traditional nonprofit.  Then, in 2003, Consensus chose a new path.  We were influenced by new trends in nonprofit leadership that focused on entrepre¬neurialism and earned income, and by increased competition for a shrinking pool of operating funds. 

Consensus took two actions that set it apart from most other nonprofits.  It developed a business plan for earned income and it became a “virtual” organization, with an active working board, no office space and staff members who work on contract.  Both decisions have increased the organization’s flexibility, cost-effectiveness and profile while maintaining its focus on the mission of putting the public in public policy.

Consensus continues to rely on philanthropic funding for civic projects such as KC Forums and policy studies, which we augment through earned income.  From 2004-2007, Consensus received philanthropic funding from the following sources:

American Academy of Family Physicians
Applebee’s International
Bank of America
Center for the City at UMKC, with funding provided by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Guy I Bromley Charitable Trust
Hall Family Foundation
Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City
HNTB
Johnson County Library
Kansas City Public Library
KCPT Public Television
Kettering Foundation
MacNeil/Lehrer Productions
Mid-America Regional Council
Rockefeller Brothers Fund
Shughart Thomson & Kilroy
William T. Kemper Foundation

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