Cornerstone Alliance
38 W. Wall Steet, P.O. Box 428
Benton Harbor, MI 49023-0428
269.925.6100
Print This Page

FAQs

Q: What exactly is Cornerstone Alliance?

A. Cornerstone Alliance is a 501(c)(3) investor driven economic development organization committed to improving the economic wealth of our community. The mission of Cornerstone Alliance is to generate economic growth and promote civic development in the community comprised of the cities of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, the charter townships of Benton, St. Joseph, Lincoln and Royalton, and the villages of Stevensville and Baroda.

 

Q. How is Cornerstone Alliance funded?

A.  All funding to Cornerstone Alliance is voluntary. We rely on generous donations from businesses, individuals, and units of government to achieve the goals set forth in our Strategic Plan. Traditionally, funding from the private sector constitutes approximately 92% of our overall funding base, with Whirlpool Foundation matching-within reason-whatever is raised by these community donations.

 

Q. How does Cornerstone Alliance operate?

A. Working through our family of affiliated organizations, we strive to be an outcome-based performance entity which induces growth in our area's job and tax base. Our organization is a reflection of the community and, as such, our work is accomplished only by working in partnership with other businesses, local units of government, and community organizations. Cornerstone Alliance is an accredited economic development organization based upon standards of the International Economic Development Council.

 

Q. What are the primary areas of focus for Cornerstone Alliance and its affiliate organizations?

A. While Cornerstone Alliance as an organization has evolved to meet the needs of the business community, as well as those of the community-at-large, during the years since its inception, its primary areas of focus have remained relatively constant. Today, the core competencies of the organization include: Harbor Shores, Job Creation & Retention, Physical Development, Small Business Services, Chamber Development, and Talent Recruitment.

Note: Until 2000, Cornerstone Alliance was not involved in housing programs. We relied on organizations such as CORD. Recognizing the need for affordable housing across all spectrums, this area only recently became a focal point for the organization.

 For further information on the organization, click here.