Daniel Bartholomay

Describe the philosophy you bring to your work:

I support strategic planning, large-scale community collaborations, executive searches, and leadership transitions. Adept at managing programs and organizations, I provide practical insights applicable to any project or program. I can see the big picture and dissect problems to understand underlying strengths and barriers. As a proven leader, I work to inspire others by focusing on desired impacts to shape strategy. I ensure that everyone around the table has the opportunity to contribute, which helps build consensus. In complex projects, I maintain a clear through-line so that meetings are efficient, goals are met, and clear paths forward are established.

How do you use your skills to help our clients?

My background and experience include the public sector, nonprofit, and foundation spaces. In all my roles, I have focused on community development grounded in community building and cross-sector collaboration. I have worked at the McKnight Foundation as a Program Director and was the Commissioner of the MN Housing and Finance Agency. I also have been an Executive Director at the former Rail~Volution (now Mpact), a well-respected national organization.

Describe your educational background/achievements:

I received an Interdisciplinary B.A. in Urban Studies, from Carleton College, focused on understanding the “urban decision-making process.” I also received a certification from the National Development Council for Economic Development Finance. I am proficient in Spanish.

Board service and professional affiliations:

• Funders Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities – Vice Chair/Executive Committee

• North Country Cooperative Foundation – Vice Chair/Executive Committee Member

• Up for Growth – Board Member, O.D. Advisor to CEO; Local Initiatives 

• Support Corporation – Twin Cities Local Advisory and Program Committees

• Itasca Project – Founding Steering Committee

• Minnesota Non-Profits Assistance Fund (now Propel) – Capacity Building and Loan Committee

• Living Cities – National Advisory Committee

• Town of La Pointe, Madeline Island – Vice-Chair, Long-range Planning Committee

What do you like to do in your free time?

An avid outdoor enthusiast and traveler, I enjoy camping in my VW pop-top and spending time on Madeline Island. I love music, spinning albums, and attending concerts regularly.