MFDF helps independent directors navigate an evolving regulatory environment and steward shareholders’ investments. MFDF provides tailored educational resources and facilitates peer-to-peer networking, with offerings that include webinars, white papers, and interactive conferences. As an independent association, MFDF’s membership includes a wide range of fund boards and represents a diverse community of directors.

Who can join?

MFDF Membership is available, on a board basis, to the independent directors of U.S. registered investment companies. A board of directors joins MFDF, extending member resources and privileges to the independent directors on the board and their CCO. Certain member privileges also extend to interested directors and other members of fund management.

How to join?

Complete a Membership Application identifying the members of the board and other associated contacts and submit it via email to hello@mfdf.org. MFDF staff will set up accounts for the relevant individuals and send them welcome emails with their credentials and some information about accessing member benefits. An invoice will be generated following the dues schedule below, and sent to the billing contact identified on the application.

For more information or assistance with the application, please contact the MFDF team via email (hello@mfdf.org) or at 202.507.4488.

Dues Schedule

MFDF has received a favorable interpretive letter from the SEC staff agreeing that funds may pay MFDF-related dues and expenses of their independent directors without violating the Investment Company Act prohibitions against joint arrangements. For more, read the No-Action Letter.

Why join?

The investment industry and regulatory environment change constantly, and independent directors occupy a highly specialized role. They need a trusted partner to help them navigate this complex and nuanced landscape, connect them with a strong network of peers, and ensure their voice is represented.

As an independent association dedicated to the effectiveness of fund independent directors, MFDF uniquely addresses the responsibilities and challenges they encounter. MFDF recognizes the importance of providing independent directors with insights to navigate the challenges of today and of the future.

Select Membership Benefits

Guide and Represent the Fund Director Community

Each member board group has a seat on MFDF's Steering Committee, which provides direct input to MFDF staff on publications including comment letters to rulemaking bodies and practical guidance papers.

Exchange Ideas with Other Fund Directors

Member working groups invite member independent directors to meet virtually to discuss a wide range of topics. Member independent directors and CCOs may participate in any or all member working groups according to their interest and availability. 

Access Education

MFDF membership offers free or significantly discounted registration to comprehensive and high-quality educational programming tailored to fund independent directors. This includes:

• Free registration to all live webinars, and access to the full library of recorded MFDF webinars
• Board pricing that waives additional director registration fees after two paid registrations from the same board group to MFDF's major annual events, the Directors' Institute and the Fund Governance and Regulatory Insights Conference
• Significantly discounted registration rates for the Directors' Institute and the Fund Governance and Regulatory Insights Conference