Best Ann Arbor Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

The Creators of Culture Grants, initiated by CultureSource, aim to enhance access to funding for grassroots arts organizations in Southeast Michigan. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 will support projects that intersect art with community wellbeing, focusing on issues like mental health and food justice. Eligible applicants include small creative organizations and returning grant recipients located in specific counties. This initiative encourages collaboration with cross-sector partners to foster a diverse and equitable arts ecosystem.

Honda’s Community Event Sponsorship aims to support local, regional, and national events that enhance community engagement and celebrate diverse cultures. Organizations must be U.S.-based and tax-exempt, focusing on projects that serve communities where Honda associates are active. Eligible events include parades, festivals, and educational initiatives. Honda evaluates requests based on community needs and available funding, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community enhancement.

The Ypsilanti Area Community Fund Grant Program aims to enhance community health and educational outcomes through collaborative partnerships. Focused on racial equity and economic empowerment, it supports projects in public health, youth education, and community support, prioritizing mental health, violence prevention, mentoring, and homelessness prevention initiatives. By investing in systemic transformation, the program seeks to create sustainable improvements for families in Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti Township, ultimately fostering economic well-being and resilience.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering sustainable business growth in Southeast Michigan. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, the Foundation supports initiatives that leverage funding to create favorable conditions for small businesses. By promoting networking and resource sharing, and diversifying industries, they aim to enhance regional resilience. Since 2008, over $180 million has been awarded to initiatives aligned with their mission, with plans to spend down all assets by 2034 to facilitate impactful investments.

Assisting Our Neighbors In Need

We are investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. We award grants for capital funding and innovative projects and campaigns that align with our priorities for each.

Grant seekers are encouraged to review our priorities and ensure projects/programs align with the outcomes we seek. Metrics related to outcomes will be requested within the grant application.

What type of projects does the Consumers Energy Foundation fund?

The Consumers Energy Foundation funds capital projects and provides program and operation support in alignment with our commitment to Michigan’s people, planet and prosperity. Our priorities include reducing poverty levels/ALICE numbers in Michigan by focusing on basic needs, education and workforce readiness; protecting/preserving Michigan’s land, water & air; and economic development by focusing on neighborhood revitalization, job growth, and arts and culture.

Check Your Grant Request Against These Standards: People; Planet; and Prosperity

Grant Priorities: Planet

Will your project/program protect/preserve or restore land, freshwater bodies, or air quality in Michigan?

Land, Water & Air

The Consumers Energy Foundation is dedicated to ensuring Michigan has world-class natural resources by funding programs and organizations that strengthen environmental stewardship, preserve the natural beauty of Michigan and reduce environmental impact when natural resources are used.  

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The KLA-Tencor Foundation's Education Opportunity Fund aims to enhance educational access, promote emotional well-being, and improve educational systems, particularly for under-resourced K-12 students. Grants between $50,000 and $250,000 are available for innovative projects that eliminate barriers to education and foster sustainable partnerships. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a significant impact in communities served by KLA, focusing on systemic change rather than direct student assistance.

The Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation supports organizations in Southeast Michigan and Metropolitan Denver focused on improving lives through health, youth, and animal welfare initiatives. They offer grants for project development, capital expenses, and unique circumstances. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that address underserved community needs, ensuring sustainable impact and enhanced access to essential services. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate non-discriminatory practices in their operations.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Senior Citizens Housing of Ann Arbor (SCHAA) Grant Program, established by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, aims to support organizations and programs that assist older adults and their caregivers. For 2025, the focus will be on technology and transportation initiatives within Washtenaw County. This program reflects the foundation's commitment to community empowerment, equity, and collaboration, ensuring that all residents have access to vital resources and support.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Teen Engagement Fund supports partnerships of at least three collaborators to create innovative programs that engage teens in their Jewish community. With grants up to $1,500, this initiative aims to foster meaningful connections among youth and their peers. Applications should focus on collaboration and sustainability, aligning with the mission of the Federation. Letters of intent are required for consideration, ensuring projects are well-planned and impactful in Washtenaw County.

The Ethel and James Flinn Foundation aims to enhance adult mental health services in Michigan through evidence-based practices. Their grants, ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, support governmental and non-profit organizations in implementing innovative treatments. Focused on reducing stigma, improving access, and fostering collaboration, the foundation emphasizes the importance of research-informed approaches to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice in mental health care.

The Ethel and James Flinn Foundation aims to enhance mental health services in Michigan through its Capacity Building & Advocacy Grants. These grants, up to $50,000, support non-profit organizations in improving service quality and expanding access. The Foundation prioritizes collaboration, equity, and dignity, fostering initiatives that reduce stigma and enhance treatment practices. By integrating mental health into primary care and advocating for policy changes, the Foundation seeks to empower underserved communities and promote a holistic approach to mental health care.

May Family Foundation

Eleanor Jean May established the May Family Foundation in 2000, as a gesture of gratitude to the communities that shaped her life. The May Family Foundation is dedicated to identifying programs that strongly resonate with our mission and values as we work together to empower and uplift lives within our communities.

Our foundation provides resources and opportunities that empower young individuals to thrive and reach their full potential. Our goal is to create a brighter future for under-resourced youth in our local communities.

May Family Foundation Community Outreach Grant

Our foundation strives to be engaged in our local communities beyond grant funding. We support select programs that align with our goals and form a connection through potential volunteering opportunities, site visits, and recognition of successes.

We welcome grant applications for financial support in community outreach:

• Programs that provide professional services to under-resourced families who may not otherwise have access.
• We support programs that help to identify existing problems or challenges in our local communities and provide the means and resources to solve them.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

The James A. and Faith Knight Foundation Grant Program, established in 1999, focuses on enhancing community support in Jackson and Washtenaw Counties, Michigan. It prioritizes general operating support for nonprofits, aims to protect the natural world, and advocates for women and girls' empowerment. The foundation underscores the importance of sound financial practices, governance, and diversity in grantmaking, fostering trust between funders and grantees while addressing critical societal issues.

The Speckhard-Knight Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations in Jackson and Washtenaw Counties, providing essential resources for individuals to live inspired and independent lives. The foundation prioritizes existing programs but is open to considering start-ups. While funding is available, ongoing support is not guaranteed, and the initial grant must meet specific parameters. Geographic preferences include areas familiar to the Board, particularly in Michigan.

The GM on Main Street Grant Program, led by Main Street America, focuses on enhancing the safety and vibrancy of downtowns through innovative road safety and traffic calming projects. Funded by General Motors, this program seeks transformative ideas that promote pedestrian safety and accessibility, making downtown areas more inviting for residents and visitors. Eligible applicants include non-profits and local governments in designated counties, with a strong emphasis on projects that are inclusive, feasible, and easily replicable.

Teen Engagement Fund - Winter Cycle 

The Jewish Teen Engagement Fund grants are intended to encourage three or more organizations or individuals to work collaboratively on innovative initiatives to engage community teens and strengthen their connection to their Judaism and peer community.    

Timeline and Amount Available

• Requests of up to $1,500 will be considered. 

The Jewish Community Engagement Fund - Winter Cycle supports collaborative initiatives that strengthen the Jewish community in Washtenaw County. Grants of up to $3,000 are available for projects that promote engagement and sustainability through partnerships among at least three collaborators. Applications must outline innovative programming aligning with the Federation's mission, including plans for financial sustainability for ongoing efforts. The fund excludes costs for staff time and non-collaborative funding.

The James A. & Faith Knight Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Jackson and Washtenaw Counties, Michigan. The foundation values sound financial management, governance practices, and a clear mission, with a focus on gender, diversity, and outcomes. Key funding priorities include general operating support, environmental sustainability, and initiatives benefiting women and girls. Organizations are expected to demonstrate their commitment to these values during the application process, which may include site visits.

Michigan Afterschool Partnership 

The Michigan Afterschool Partnership (MASP) is the statewide voice and coordinating hub for out-of-school time programs that support Michigan’s young people, families, and communities. MASP brings together education leaders, youth-serving organizations, businesses, philanthropy, and policymakers to strengthen and expand high-quality afterschool and summer learning opportunities across the state. By aligning local efforts with statewide strategy, sharing best practices, and elevating data-driven insights, MASP helps ensure out-of-school time programs are effective, sustainable, and responsive to community needs—supporting youth success, working families, and Michigan’s future workforce.

With Youth For Youth (WYFY) Grant Opportunity for Southeast Michigan

Grant Opportunity & Funding Priorities

Beginning in 2026, the Southeast Michigan WYFY Advisory Council will distribute just over $2 million in grants to support out-of-school time and youth sports programs that incorporate youth voice, equitable access, and systems-level improvements. Funding decisions will be made by the Southeast Michigan Advisory Council using a structured review process designed by young people.

To meaningfully increase youth voice across funded programs, proposals should demonstrate how youth input and leadership are embedded in program structure, culture and decision-making. Priority will be given to programs that demonstrate the following funding priorities:

• Equity ensures all youth are centered, youth’s specific identities are considered and there is an unbiased distribution of resources for youth in programming.
• Safety as emotional, relational, in programming, and a created space of belonging.
• Tangible Resources, ensure tangible supports that remove barriers to participation, such as transportation, food, youth stipends, and materials.
• The need for youth to experience both Learning and Enjoyment in the program.
• Preparation for a future where young people can thrive.
• The Role Adults Play by being adult allies who listen, support, and share power with young people.
• Youth Voice & Leadership as a non-negotiable experience for all young people in the program.

What is Out-of-School Time?

For the purposes of this application, out-of-school time (OST) is defined as any youth-serving program that supports young people outside the traditional school day (e.g., before and after school and/or during summer). Examples are as follows, but not limited to:

• Youth Sports
• Arts, Culture, and Enrichment
• Leadership Development and Civic Engagement
• Youth Workforce and Career Readiness
• Library and Recreation Program
• Prevention and Restorative Initiatives

We believe these programs operate in a wide range of settings, including community-based 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, early childhood centers, and faith-based programs, collectively forming a critical part of Michigan’s youth-serving infrastructure. 

Programs must:

• Serve youth ages 5–18
• Operate in Southeast Michigan (Livingston, Wayne, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne)
• Provide programming outside the traditional school day

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Old National Bank Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations for community impact initiatives across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Focused on four key areas—Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Financial Empowerment—the foundation prioritizes programs that support underrepresented communities. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation’s funding priorities to qualify for grants, which can be applied for every two years.