Best Detroit Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The Rocket Community Fund Grant, initiated by Rocket Mortgage, aims to enhance community welfare by addressing homelessness, preventing displacement, and promoting equitable homeownership. By investing in innovative programs, the Fund seeks to create stable housing solutions and bridge the digital divide, fostering economic opportunities in Detroit and beyond. Its mission emphasizes simplifying complex systems to ensure all Americans have access to healthy homes, reflecting a commitment to social impact and community engagement.

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, established in 2015, focuses on community transformation in Southeast Michigan and Western New York. With a spend-down structure by 2035, the foundation prioritizes collaborative investments in key areas like active lifestyles, success preparation, caregiver support, and economic development. Emphasizing urgency and innovation, it seeks to create lasting impacts by fostering partnerships and supporting visionary projects that address significant community needs.

About Us

The Kresge Foundation is a private, national foundation that works to expand equity and opportunities in America’s cities through grantmaking and social investing in arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services and community development, nationally and in Detroit, Memphis, New Orleans and Fresno. In collaboration with our partners, we help create pathways for people with low incomes to improve their life circumstances and join the economic mainstream.

Detroit Parks Coalition 2026 Summer Parks Programming Grants (2026-05-13)

Thank you for your interest in funding opportunities from The Kresge Foundation. We make grants through seven Programs and a Social Investment Practice. Each Program has established specific objectives to advance strategic goals. These objectives are called Focus Areas. It is through Focus Areas that grant opportunities are made available to grantseekers. You can learn more about each focus area in the Our Work section under each program.

We use an array of flexible grantmaking and social investing tools. Kresge awards single and multiyear grants for general operating support, projects and planning. We also use social investing tools such as program-related investments, guarantees and equity.

The Detroit Program’s Kresge Innovative Projects: Detroit Plus initiative is launching its first-ever Cultural Heritage round, with up to $1.25 million available for community-led projects that preserve, celebrate and activate the cultural identity of neighborhoods across Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. In partnership with Co.act Detroit and Michigan Community Resources, the program will award 10 to 15 grants of up to $100,000 each for storytelling, oral history, public art, cultural events, neighborhood signage and placekeeping work.

What this round supports

KIP:D+ Cultural Heritage is designed for projects that honor the past, care for important places and imagine the future of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. Both physical and nonphysical projects are eligible.

Examples include:

• Storytelling and oral history projects
• Archiving efforts that preserve community memory
• Public art or permanent installations
• Exhibitions
• Neighborhood signage
• Cultural events and celebrations
• Activating community spaces
• Placemaking and placekeeping work

Projects should strengthen belonging, preserve stories and places, and be shaped by community voice. Applicants should be prepared to begin work soon after receiving funding and complete their projects within a 24-month grant period.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

Educational institutions and organizations in Detroit, Michigan (Wayne County) that run STEM or aviation education programs for underrepresented communities can apply for JetBlue Foundation grants up to US $50,000. Focus areas include aviation technology, engineering, operations, maintenance, and sustainable or environmental aviation programs serving groups such as women, veterans, diverse communities, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities.

The Toledo Walleye Transportation Fund offers grants to accredited schools and nonprofit organizations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, facilitating transportation to Toledo Mud Hens baseball or Walleye hockey games. Aiming to eliminate financial barriers, the fund provides awards up to $1,000 for eligible applicants. Schools and nonprofits can receive one transportation award for each game annually, promoting enriching experiences for students and communities.

BASF Corporation, a leading chemical company based in Florham Park, New Jersey, is committed to charitable giving that aligns with its corporate social responsibility goals. The focus areas include science education, environmental sustainability, and health and safety. Donations are only made to eligible non-profit organizations under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, ensuring that contributions support initiatives that enhance the quality of life in BASF communities and promote a sustainable future.

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 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.

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.

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.  

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: Prosperity

Will your project/program contribute to Michigan’s economy by creating safe, desirable neighborhoods, supporting job growth and entrepreneurs, or attracting visitors?

Growing Our Local Economy and Resources

The Consumers Energy Foundation is dedicated to ensuring Michigan businesses and communities are growing and have world-class cultural resources. We’re deeply involved in community development efforts across the state. We award grants supporting our economic development priority to improve the welfare of whole communities, with a focus on funding projects with long-term benefits on Michigan’s economy. 

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.

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 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 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 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 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 Steel Dynamics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life and local economies by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Priorities include higher education, economic development, and human services, particularly in communities where Steel Dynamics operates. Grants are awarded based on community impact, employee involvement, and organizational integrity. Applicants must demonstrate a strong ethical track record and effective community engagement to qualify for funding opportunities.

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.

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.

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 Advancing Lives Grant, offered by the Advia Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to making a meaningful impact in their communities. This grant focuses on initiatives that drive progress and improve lives, ensuring that the funding is directed towards organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status and community involvement. Applications are limited to one grant per year per organization, fostering a fair distribution of resources.

The Teachers and Educators Scholarship, funded by the Advia Foundation, invites teachers to propose financial literacy projects aimed at enhancing students' understanding of money management. This initiative supports the development of effective financial decision-making skills among students, fostering a generation of informed individuals. Eligible proposals should focus on innovative classroom strategies that promote financial knowledge and empower students to make sound financial choices.

About KIP:D+ Cultural Heritage

Kresge Innovative Projects: Detroit Plus (KIP:D+) funds projects in Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park neighborhoods that support the vision and creativity of residents. We support inclusive, collaborative processes that authentically engage community members in planning, design and implementation.

Through project funding, capacity building, and support for transformative initiatives, KIP:D+ enables grantees to foster resilience, collaboration, and meaningful change.

This round of KIP:D+ focuses on Cultural Heritage. We’re funding arts, culture, and community projects that help neighborhoods remember their history, share stories and traditions, and carry forward community legacy.

The Flowers for Dreams Foundation Grant prioritizes organizations committed to mental health and community care initiatives for vulnerable populations. With a mission to fund local charities, the foundation has donated over $1.5 million to date. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000, with applications accepted year-round. In 2025, the foundation emphasizes support for mental health services, ensuring that funds are used for impactful community care. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and operate within the designated service area.