Best Cass County Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The Michigan Rural Development Fund Grants, offered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, aim to enhance the sustainability of land-based industries and improve infrastructure in rural communities. Eligible projects include those in food, agriculture, forestry, mining, oil, gas production, and tourism. These grants support the expansion of industries, worker training, and essential services such as energy and water infrastructure, ultimately benefiting rural areas and Micropolitan statistical regions.

The Cass County Opioid Settlement Funds aim to support organizations addressing opioid use through prevention, treatment, and community support initiatives. The funding prioritizes services for individuals and families affected by opioid use, focusing on racial equity and youth prevention. Grants are available for both emergency and non-emergency interventions, ensuring a fair and transparent process for fund allocation. This initiative seeks to make a significant impact on the community by addressing unmet needs and leveraging collaboration with local service providers.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Cass County, Michigan can seek support for established programs in social welfare, education, arts and culture, and community and economic development. With a mission to strengthen community life, 1 St Source Foundation provides funding to proven organizations that serve broad segments of the communities it serves.

The Cass County Opioid Settlement Funds provide crucial financial resources to address opioid-related issues in Michigan. Originating from a $26 billion settlement, nearly $800 million will be allocated over 18 years, with half directed to local governments. Priority funding areas include naloxone distribution, treatment for pregnant women, and support for incarcerated individuals. Additional settlements are expected to enhance resources, emphasizing the importance of community support and addressing the needs of underserved populations impacted by the opioid crisis.

With a mission to strengthen communities, PNC Foundation provides Cass County, Michigan nonprofits with support for early childhood education and economic development initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving low- and moderate-income residents may seek funding for early learning, affordable housing, small business support, community services, arts and culture, and neighborhood revitalization where PNC has a significant presence.

Cass County, Michigan 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on education, poverty reduction, community vitality, or related services can access funding through The Pokagon Fund for projects benefiting communities near Band Trust Lands. Grants up to Up to US $7,500 support initiatives in areas like schools, food security, early childhood, parks, and broader community development in nearby Michigan and Indiana communities.

Cass County, Michigan nonprofits, schools, government units, and religious organizations offering education, human services, or environmental programs can access funding through Berrien Community Foundation. Heart of Cook Grants provide US $100 - US $10,000 for workforce skills, youth and family support, senior services, STEM education, and environmental conservation in the AEP service area, including Cass County.

Catholic dioceses and parishes in Cass County, Michigan within an Extension Diocese can seek funding to construct, expand, or renovate churches and related ministry facilities. Catholic Extension provides up to US $100,000, including minor repair and equipment projects and larger matching grants for new construction, expansions, and major renovations in under-resourced Catholic communities.

Catholic parishes and diocesan ministries providing core pastoral and administrative services in Cass County, Michigan can seek funding to sustain or expand a Catholic presence in under-resourced areas. With a mission to support Catholic life in mission dioceses, Catholic Extension provides salary subsidies and essential operating support for ministries in designated Extension Dioceses.

Catholic dioceses in Cass County, Michigan can access funding for recruiting, educating, and forming ordained and lay church leaders through Catholic Extension’s Building Leaders initiative. Catholic Extension provides support for seminarians, deacons, and lay or religious leaders, including tuition subsidies, professional development, recruitment efforts, and ongoing formation opportunities in approved mission dioceses.

Catholic diocesan offices, parishes, and ministries serving young people in Cass County, Michigan can seek support for Catholic faith formation and pastoral programs. Catholic Extension supports campus ministry, youth ministry, religious education for children and families, and young adult programs in eligible Extension Dioceses through operational support, salary subsidies, or seed funding.

Cass County, Michigan nonprofits seeking in-kind support for adult-focused programs and fundraising events can request playing cards, restaurant gift cards, or hotel stays. Eligible 501(c)(3), civic, or business/trade organizations within roughly 90 miles of Potawatomi Hotel & Casino must pick up cards and ensure events do not market to or include minors.

Catholic dioceses serving Cass County, Michigan can seek funding for capacity-building initiatives that strengthen their long-term sustainability. Focused on Catholic ministry, Catholic Extension supports fundraising development, operational efficiency projects, financial management improvements, and strategic or pastoral planning in approved Extension Dioceses that include Cass County communities.

Catholic dioceses serving Cass County, Michigan can seek funding to enhance pastoral and social outreach ministries, including catechesis, marriage and family programs, evangelization media, liturgical life, social outreach, and limited post-disaster support. With a mission to strengthen church ministry, Catholic Extension provides grants directly to approved Extension Dioceses working in this region.

Cass County, Michigan Catholic school educators and diocesan leaders can access funding through Catholic Extension to join Loyola Marymount University’s online Catholic School Leadership Academy. The one-year graduate certificate strengthens mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, with tuition and travel largely covered, in exchange for a two-year service commitment and a project to enhance their local Catholic school.

Mission Catholic dioceses in Cass County, Michigan can apply for Catholic Extension’s Francis Grants to fund major diocesan events and leadership development, such as bishop ordinations, anniversaries, papal visits, or a bishop’s continuing education. Only pre-approved poor dioceses serving these areas are eligible; individuals and independent nonprofits are not funded directly.

Cass County, Michigan nonprofits and public entities running food access or nutrition education programs can receive support for comprehensive, behavior-changing efforts that improve healthy eating and food security. Bayer Fund provides funding for established, financially sound organizations serving underserved or rural communities and families with young children, by invitation and within designated legacy-Monsanto communities.

Cass County, Michigan emergency response organizations seeking funding for safety equipment, professional training, or safety education programs can access funding through Enbridge’s Safe Community First Responder Program. Eligible fire departments, EMS, 9-1-1 centers, ambulance services, emergency management, and law enforcement agencies near Enbridge operations may receive US $1,000 - US $10,000 in support.

Cass County, Michigan nonprofits and community groups working on local education, human services, arts, environment, or community development can access funding through Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation. Grants support efforts that strengthen the greater Itasca-area region, including Cass County, by addressing community needs and improving quality of life across multiple sectors.

Nonprofit and other tax-exempt organizations can seek DEW Foundation support for operating costs, major construction, or program work in areas like health, education, arts, relief, and community services in Cass County, Michigan. Focused on effective, mission-driven charities, this funder may benefit 501(c)(3)s and public entities such as school districts, libraries, and tribes.

Private forest landowners and partners in Cass County, Michigan can protect forestland from development through conservation easements or fee-sale projects that keep lands as working forests. Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Forest Legacy Program supports land and habitat conservation projects that provide public access and require long-term management plans and matching non-federal funding.

Cass County, Michigan 501(c)(3) nonprofits leading youth-focused projects in education, health and wellness, or arts and culture can access funding through Michigan Gateway Community Foundation’s Mini-Grant program. Youth-led initiatives benefiting South Berrien and Cass Counties that build community assets and show long-term, sustainable impact may be competitive.

Nonprofits and community organizations supporting safety, vibrancy, or sustainability can seek US $1,000 - US $10,000 for local programs, projects, or events. Focused on safe, vibrant, and sustainable communities, Enbridge invites Cass County, Michigan organizations near its operations to apply for donations, sponsorships, or in-kind support that benefit many residents and have long-term community impact.

The Michigan Gateway Community Foundation Grant supports projects benefiting South Berrien and Cass Counties, Michigan. It aims to strengthen community assets, create positive long-term impacts, and foster cooperation among organizations. Successful applications should demonstrate financial sustainability and address community needs effectively. The foundation encourages applicants to seek feedback on proposals and aims to improve community welfare through education, health, and culture initiatives. For eligibility, a 501(c)(3) status is required.

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.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Stephen A. Johnston Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college sophomore, junior, or senior or a graduate student who is majoring in plant pathology or has demonstrated an interest in vegetable crop production or a related field. Preference will be given to a student who can demonstrate evidence of an association with the Rutgers University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Three Little Birds Scholarship

This fund was created by a family who tried many therapies for their children and recognized how overwhelming the financial burden can become over time. Their passion is now focused on helping other families that may not have the financial means but want to provide essential therapies for their children. They hope that the scholarship helps provide special, wonderful kids with the tools that they need to be successful in life.