The council strives to improve the understanding of philanthropy by the general public, elected and appointed public officials, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, academicians, the media, and other special interest groups. These services include: - Minnesota grantmakers online: a web-based directory of foundations and corporate giving programs in Minnesota - Opportunities for education and information on private philanthropy and the grant making process through periodic public meetings and seminars - Periodic research on the extent and nature of private philanthropy, including analysis of giving trends in Minnesota - Quarterly newspaper, Giving Forum, covering activities and trends of interest to nonprofit organizations and the general public