State Chapters & Partners Program

The Value of a Collective Voice for Certified Professional Midwives

Since launching our State Chapter Program in 2015 and expanding to include State/Territory Partners in 2025, NACPM is committed to building a strong, unified voice for Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs). The Chapter & Partner Program strengthens the midwifery profession and advances birth health policy to ensure that all childbearing people and babies have a healthy start.

Why Form a State Chapter or Become a State Partner?

A collective voice amplifies our ability to shape policy and improve care for families across the country. NACPM Chapters and Partners work in collaboration with our national organization to:

  • Build a diverse, effective CPM workforce

  • Connect and support midwives nationwide

  • Influence national and state policy

  • Advocate for autonomous midwifery regulation

  • Share success stories, best practices, and educational resources

  • Promote awareness of normal physiologic birth

State-based leadership is essential to licensing, scope of practice, and governance of CPMs. Meanwhile, federal policy shapes access, innovation, and reimbursement. Together, local and national partnerships are vital for progress.The Potential for NACPM State Chapters & Partners

Program Pathways: Chapters & Partners

NACPM offers two formal options for states and territories to connect with our national work.

NACPM Chapters

Ideal for new or emerging groups, Chapters are legal subordinates of NACPM and benefit from:

  • Shared 501(c)(6) tax-exempt status and Directors & Officers Insurance

  • Administrative support for fundraising, membership, and compliance

  • Templates for bylaws and incorporation

  • Membership processing with direct deposit and data access

  • 20% annual contribution of national dues associated with the Chapter

  • Optional State Chapter webpage on NACPM.org

NACPM Partners

Designed for existing organizations with independent structures, Partners maintain their own tax status and governance while enjoying a formal connection with NACPM. This option is ideal for associations with structural or historical barriers to becoming Chapters.

Benefits for All Chapters & Partners

  • Shared mission, vision, and goals

  • Quarterly Collaboration Calls with C&P leaders

  • Ongoing support via a private Google Group

  • State leader toolkits

  • Legislative, regulatory, and technical assistance

  • Policy examples, data, and position statements

  • Newsletter highlights featuring C&P work

In addition, Chapters receive the following additional support:

  • Processing of chapter memberships

  • Ongoing direct deposit of chapter membership funds and access to their membership lists and information

  • NACPM financially supports Chapters by annually contributing back to a Chapter 20% of national memberships associated with that Chapter

  • Inclusion in NACPM’s Directors and Officers insurance

  • Assistance and support with organizational structure, legal and tax responsibilities

  • As a part of NACPM, chapters are tax exempt under NACPM’s IRS group ruling and do not have to go through the process or expense of applying for federal tax exemption individually. NACPM also annually files taxes for Chapters

  • Extension of NACPM’s fiscal sponsor relationships and fundraising platforms that enhance Chapters abilities to fundraise

  • Option of creating a State Chapter webpage on NACPM’s website. See our growing list of NACPM State Chapters here.

How to Start a Chapter:

  1. Review the Chapter Launch Packet

  2. Submit the Intention to Form a State Chapter application

  3. Schedule an Intro Call with the Chapters and Partners Coordinator

  4. Complete steps in the Chapter Launch Packet

  5. Upon Board approval, finalize legal formation documents included in the Chapter Launch Packet – Chapter Formation Documents

    Our Chapters & Partners Coordinator Abriah Miles is available at chapters@nacpm.org to support you through this process.

How to Become a Partner:

  1. Review the Partner Launch Packet

  2. Submit the Intent to Become a NACPM State/Territory Partner Application

  3. Schedule an Intro Call with the Chapters and Partners Coordinator

  4. Complete the Value Alignment Self Evaluation Form

  5. The NACPM Board will consider the application

  6. If approved, finalize partnership agreement to begin participating in NACPM activities and communications

    Our Chapters & Partners Coordinator Abriah Miles is available at chapters@nacpm.org to support you through this process.

Ready to Join or Learn More?

If your group is ready to become a Chapter or Partner or you'd simply like to learn more, we invite you to connect with us! Email us at chapters@nacpm.org to begin the conversation.

Note: The term "state" includes U.S. jurisdictions and territories.