The Greater Mankato Diversity Council (GMDC) came into existence through the efforts of a 23-member planning team that announced the Council’s formation in June 2004. A Board of Directors, established in September 2004, governs the organization and represents governmental units, businesses and organizations. Any individual or organization can be part of the general membership and contribute to its mission.

Organizational collaboration and support for establishing the GMDC involves government, education, business and community-based organizations, including Blue Earth County, Nicollet County, North Mankato and Mankato City Council's, Mankato Area Public Schools, Mankato Area Catholic Schools, Minnesota State University, South Central College, Greater Mankato Chamber of Commerce, the Mankato Area Foundation, the Greater Mankato Area United Way and its agencies, and more than 25 corporate sponsors. GMDC has partnered with these organizations to remove participation barriers and tap into the benefits of diversity through diversity education.

The Board has established four standing committees to develop and implement its activities: Awards and Events; Education; Communications and Public Relations; and Development.