CREATE Foundation is a premier community foundation dedicated to making northeast Mississippi the best place to live. Since its establishment in 1972 by George and Anna McLean, it has become the oldest community foundation in Mississippi. CREATE Foundation offers a comprehensive range of products and services to encourage philanthropy and provide impactful leadership in the region.

The foundation focuses on four program areas: regional community development, endowment building, financial administration, and targeted grant making. It supports the Commission on the Future of Northeast Mississippi, local development organizations, and a leadership development program. CREATE also enables individuals and organizations to build a lasting legacy through endowment building and charitable giving.

They have established Community Affiliates through challenge grants in 15 of the 17 counties in the region. CREATE Foundation serves as a financial administrator for nonprofit organizations and community projects, minimizing costs and allowing these organizations to focus on their philanthropic and service purposes. They also award grants to groups and organizations that contribute to the community's well-being.

As the region's premier philanthropic resource, CREATE Foundation collaborates with fund donors, grant recipients, organizations, and communities to build charitable resources and improve the quality of life in Northeast Mississippi. They are committed to comprehensive charitable planning for individuals, nonprofits, communities, and businesses. To ensure transparency and accountability, CREATE Foundation is registered with the Internal Revenue Service and the State of Mississippi.

They hold the highest rating for strong fiscal management and have received certification from CEFEX and National Standards from the Council on Foundations