In 2013, the Georgia Center for Nonprofits (GCN) launched a research effort to better understand Macon-Bibb County's most critical needs. By mapping out the existing community resources and comparing that data to the demand for services, service gaps were identified. Among the most critical gaps was early childhood success—the complex factors empowering children from birth to five years old and preparing them for the future.

Upon completion of Phase 1 and after two townhall-style meetings among local nonprofit leaders, 16 organizations were peer-selected to participate in an 18-month training and development program called Momentum, administered by GCN. Trainings ranged from strategic planning and resource development to marketing and technology. Throughout the program, participating nonprofits worked on key organizational documents: theories of change, strategic and implementation plans, fundraising strategies and collateral, and board development plans. Importantly, organizations were learning about one another and deepening relationships. This individual and inter-organizational capacity-building paved the way for action.

In 2016, collaboration-building began in earnest. A core group of community leaders, representing various agencies and expertise, have worked tirelessly to conceptualize, build, and implement a new approach to service delivery in Macon-Bibb County. Having established a formal partnership, standardized operating procedures, and developed a shared data system, Macon AIM participants are now jointly serving families with children prenatal to eight years old.