Best Detroit Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The Ally Charitable Foundation focuses on advancing economic mobility and reducing inequities through targeted grants. Their key areas include affordable housing, financial education, and workforce development, aiming to support nonprofit organizations that provide essential resources to underserved communities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits based in the U.S., demonstrating compliance with various guidelines and attesting to a non-discrimination policy. This strategic approach fosters impactful collaborations to inspire social change.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Thomas R. Shaw Scholarship Fund

It is with great pride and a deep sense of humility that the Shaw family presents this scholarship in honor of Thomas R. Shaw. Thomas R. Shaw was a lifelong Battle Creek resident and a third generation funeral director. He was born April 2, 1935 in Battle Creek and remained dedicated to his community his entire life. He was an active civic and professional leader, a devoted family man and supporter of education and youth. He attended the University of Michigan and graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in Mortuary Science. This scholarship aims to support greater Battle Creek and Bellevue area student obtain higher education at Wayne State University, Central Michigan University, or the University of Michigan. Thomas R. Shaw was a lifelong Battle Creek resident and a third generation funeral director. He was born April 2, 1935 in Battle Creek and remained dedicated to his community his entire life. He was an active civic and professional leader, a devoted family man and supporter of education and youth. He attended the University of Michigan and graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in Mortuary Science. 

The Ethel and James Flinn Foundation is dedicated to enhancing mental health treatment for children and youth in southeast Michigan. With 1 in 5 youths facing serious mental health challenges, the Foundation funds evidence-based projects ranging from $50,000 to $75,000 annually to improve access to care. By implementing best practices in behavioral health, the Foundation aims to address the significant gaps in treatment and support, fostering better outcomes for young individuals and their families.

The Detroit Industrial School Grant provides vital funding for projects benefiting children in the Tri-County area. With grants up to $5,000, the foundation prioritizes support for non-profit agencies addressing basic needs, educational programs, and resources for disabled children. The grant aims to help those in greatest need, ensuring no racial or religious discrimination in service. Eligible projects include tutoring, field trips, and skill training, fostering a brighter future for local youth.

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 Mullick Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on education, community impact, culture, and health. Based in Saline, Michigan, it aims to build intergenerational pathways to success. Organizations must be tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3) to apply. The board reviews inquiries quarterly, potentially inviting promising applicants for further discussions. This grant offers a unique opportunity for nonprofits to enhance their impact in the community.

Fire departments in Detroit, Michigan seeking funding for training, equipment, or technology can apply for grants ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000. The Leary Firefighters Foundation’s Jeremiah Lucey Grant Program supports paid and volunteer departments, including those in Wayne County, Michigan, that demonstrate proactive efforts to solve critical safety and operational challenges.

The Advia Youth Scholarships Program, initiated by the Advia Foundation, aims to empower graduating seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to community service. By providing financial support, the program fosters the growth of future leaders while enhancing financial literacy and education within the community. Advia Foundation's mission is to improve the overall quality of life, making significant contributions to the lives of young individuals and their communities.

The Livonia Community Foundation Grant supports 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations serving Livonia residents. The Foundation, a certified charitable organization, promotes community resources, cultural interests, and welfare programs. Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible and help fund various charitable, educational, and recreational projects. By investing assets conservatively, the Foundation ensures a sustainable return to support its mission and commitments, enhancing the quality of life in Livonia through strategic funding.

The Young Woman's Home Association Grant supports nonprofit agencies that serve women and children in Wayne County, Michigan. Established in 1877, the grant aims to enhance education, meet basic needs, and promote cultural enrichment. New applicants must submit their applications by August 1, while returning applicants have until September 1. Unfortunately, requests for general operating expenses, capital improvements, and individual scholarships are typically not considered.

The T32 Postdoctoral Fellowship in Mental Health Services Research is a two-year program supported by the National Institute of Mental Health. It trains emerging researchers in health systems research focusing on mental health and suicide prevention. The fellowship emphasizes mentorship, research methods, and professional development, preparing fellows to secure independent funding. Candidates with PhDs, MDs, or equivalent degrees, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, are encouraged to apply. More information is available through the program's website.

The ON Semiconductor STEAM Education Grant Program aims to support educational institutions and charitable organizations that promote STEAM education for underserved youth. Through initiatives like employee giving and community revitalization, the program seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators. Eligible organizations must operate within onsemi's communities, align with its values, and adhere to local laws. The foundation prioritizes previous grantees who have demonstrated positive outcomes in their educational efforts.

Detroit-area 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving vulnerable residents, youth and families, or animal welfare in Wayne County, Michigan can apply for Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation grants to support projects or programs. Eligible organizations must be audited, nondiscriminatory, and may seek funding for health access, youth enrichment, family-strengthening services, or animal care initiatives.

Public and charter middle schools in Detroit, Michigan that want to start a new PLTW Gateway STEM program can apply for US $20,000 to cover participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs. Grants from Project Lead the Way help Wayne County schools expand hands-on STEM learning and increase diversity in semiconductor-related fields.

Public and charter middle schools expanding an existing PLTW Gateway STEM program in Wayne County, Michigan (including Detroit) can use this grant for participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs. Grants from Project Lead the Way prioritize high‑need schools and aim to boost diversity in STEM and awareness of semiconductors.

The PLTW Gateway grant, funded by PPG Industries, aims to support schools in implementing PLTW Gateway programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Schools must offer two different PLTW units over two years and complete grant reporting. Eligible schools include public and charter institutions in cities like Huntsville, AL, and Detroit, MI. The total grant amount is $10,000, distributed equally over two years, enabling schools to enhance their STEM education offerings.

Nonprofit and public entities working on coastal resilience, restoration, and community development in Detroit, Michigan and other eligible Michigan coastal counties can seek US $10,000 - US $100,000 for planning and implementation projects. With a mission to protect water resources and coastal communities, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy provides support for ecosystem restoration, harbor revitalization, stormwater solutions, and public access improvements.

The PLTW Gateway program expansion grant, funded by PPG Industries, aims to support public and charter schools in enhancing their existing PLTW Gateway programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible schools must be located within 25 miles of specified cities and demonstrate a commitment to program growth through activities such as adding new units or training additional teachers. This opportunity fosters STEM education by enabling schools to improve their resources and instructional capabilities.

Detroit-area 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on STEM education, transportation access, road safety, or related workforce and infrastructure initiatives in Wayne County, Michigan can access funding through General Motors Foundation. Grants support programs near GM facilities that advance STEM literacy, technical education, safe vehicle use, and equitable, resilient transportation solutions; applications are accepted January through September.

The Andersons Fund Supporting Organization aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, particularly in the greater Toledo area. It supports nonprofit organizations with grants for programs in education, social services, mental health, urban affairs, natural resources, and the arts. The Fund prioritizes capital projects and evaluates the financial stability and operational issues of requesting organizations.

The Mud Hens-Walleye Transportation Fund supports schools and nonprofit organizations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan by providing transportation grants for attending Toledo Mud Hens baseball and Toledo Walleye hockey games. With awards up to $1,000, the fund aims to eliminate financial barriers for educational field trips to these events. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and adhere to specific guidelines regarding the use of funds for transportation services.

Detroit, Michigan 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on economic mobility, workforce readiness, or affordable housing can access funding through Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Neighborhood Builders Program. Eligible organizations receive a two-year leadership development experience plus a capacity-building grant, supporting income creation, small business resilience, and stable, affordable housing in their communities.

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center is offering a Mini Tech Skills Workshop Grant to support local and national non-profits in providing STEAM skills workshops for youth aged 13-19. These workshops, which include topics such as coding, filmmaking, and robotics, aim to enhance technical skills and career exploration. Funding can reach up to $24,999, with a focus on hands-on, facilitator-led experiences, and additional programming opportunities may be considered.

The Consumers Energy Foundation Grant aims to assist Michigan communities by funding innovative projects that enhance people's lives, protect the environment, and promote economic prosperity. Eligible applicants must align their initiatives with the foundation's focus areas, which include reducing poverty, environmental preservation, and economic development. Notably, the foundation primarily supports tax-exempt organizations based in Michigan, while also considering projects that significantly benefit the state. Applicants are encouraged to review eligibility criteria and grant standards before applying.

The Pitney Bowes Foundation Grant, established in 2005, focuses on enhancing education within communities where Pitney Bowes operates. Annually, the foundation allocates around $1.8 million to support literacy, STEM, and job training initiatives, emphasizing early childhood education and mentoring programs. Grants are designed to foster measurable outcomes that address educational disparities, particularly for underserved populations, ensuring a brighter future for the workforce.

Out-of-school time and youth sports programs serving ages 5–18 in Southeast Michigan, including Detroit, can apply for Michigan Afterschool Partnership’s With Youth For Youth grants; awards up to US $100,000 for youth-centered programming. Eligible efforts must operate outside the traditional school day and embed youth voice, equity, safety, and leadership development.

The Bies Family Foundation SkillPointe Scholarship provides $5,000 to support individuals pursuing careers in automotive maintenance in the Detroit area. Applications are accepted until March 31 and September 30, remaining eligible until graduation. The foundation has funded over 1,000 scholarships nationwide, raising more than $5 million to close the skills gap and enhance workforce readiness. With a high completion and employment rate among recipients, the initiative aims to uplift both individuals and the American economy.