Best Youth Sports Grants in Michigan

Paul and Deanna Virciglio Scholarship

Paul Virciglio, along with his wife, Deanna, has established the Paul & Deanna Virciglio Education Fund, which will be used to award scholarships to students pursuing graduate studies in math or science.

“I noted the dramatic structural changes taking place in the business world as we prepared for the new information society. There’s a demand for higher-skilled employees, which places an emphasis on education, especially in math and science,” said Paul Virciglio.

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) provides the connections, expertise and innovative solutions to drive continued business growth, build vibrant communities, create affordable housing, generate tourism and attract and retain key talent to fill Michigan’s vast pipeline of opportunities.

MIOSHA Workplace Improvement to Safety and Health (MIWISH) Grant Program

The MIOSHA Workplace Improvement to Safety and Health (MIWISH) Grant Program awards qualifying employers a dollar-for-dollar match – up to $5,000 – to purchase safety and health-related equipment and equipment-related training. The goal of the program is to create a safer and healthier work environment and reduce the risk of injury and illness to workers in Michigan.

This is a reimbursement program. Grant awards are limited to one per company. Invoices dated prior to the approved contract date are not eligible for this program. Grants are awarded to employers that best satisfy the MIWISH goals.

Examples of eligible grants include:

• Eyewash stations
• Fall protection systems
• Machine guarding
• Lock out/tag out systems
• Monitoring equipment and equipment for noise
• Lifting equipment for small nursing care facilities

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

ON Semiconductor Foundation

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an additional investment to support grants for schools in onsemi communities to implement or expand the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2027 school year.

PLTW Biomedical Science- Program Expansion

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Biomedical Science course in the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools may implement any PLTW Biomedical Science courses of their choosing.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

ON Semiconductor Foundation

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an additional investment to support grants for schools in onsemi communities to implement or expand the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2027 school year.

PLTW Biomedical Science - New Program

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Biomedical Science course in the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools may implement any PLTW Biomedical Science courses of their choosing.

The Andrew Mozola Scholarship, funded by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), supports undergraduate students majoring in geology. This scholarship helps cover college education costs and promotes student engagement with AIPG. Eligible applicants must be AIPG student members, have a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5 in their major, and be sophomores or higher. AIPG has been advocating for geoscientists since 1963.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

University of Michigan Club of Holland Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Calvary Schools of Holland, Fennville, Hamilton, Holland Christian, Holland High School, Saugatuck, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• 1,700-character or less response to this prompt: Please explain why the University of Michigan is your first choice and discuss your educational goals and intended major

The MI Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) - Floodplain Easement provides crucial financial and technical assistance to local communities for mitigating flood risks and soil erosion post-natural disasters. It empowers landowners to apply for floodplain easements, promoting restoration and protection of floodplains. This program is vital for areas frequently affected by flooding, ensuring that properties are safeguarded and natural resources are managed effectively. Assistance does not require prior disaster declarations, streamlining the recovery process.

The Michigan ACEP: Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) program, administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, offers year-round applications to restore and enhance wetlands. This initiative provides financial and technical assistance to landowners and Indian tribes for permanent and temporary easements. The program emphasizes ecological benefits, including improved water quality and habitat conservation, while ensuring compliance with income limitations. Priority is given to projects that enhance wildlife habitats, particularly for migratory birds.

The MI Healthy Forests Reserve Program (HFRP) supports landowners in restoring and protecting forestland through financial assistance and easements. It aims to enhance biodiversity, recover endangered species, and improve carbon storage by offering 10-year restoration agreements and 30-year easements. Eligible landowners must provide proof of ownership and can mitigate regulatory restrictions under the Endangered Species Act by enhancing their land's habitat. This program significantly contributes to sustainable forest management and conservation efforts.

The Michigan ACEP: Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) program, administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, aims to protect the agricultural viability of land by preventing nonagricultural uses. It provides financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing easements that conserve agricultural land, ensuring the long-term sustainability of food supply and environmental quality. Eligible lands include private or Tribal agricultural lands, and NRCS may contribute up to 75% of the easement's fair market value.

The MI Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is designed to enhance existing conservation efforts on working lands in Michigan. It provides tailored plans to improve agriculture, grazing, and wildlife habitats while offering financial assistance for sustainable practices. With no minimum acreage requirement, the program supports various land types, ensuring compliance with USDA regulations. Participants experience increased resilience to market fluctuations, reduced input needs, and improved environmental conditions, making it a vital resource for sustainable agricultural operations.

The Michigan Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) supports farmers and landowners in integrating conservation practices into their operations. Offering technical and financial assistance, this program addresses key natural resource concerns such as soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat. Participants work closely with NRCS to implement sustainable practices that enhance agricultural productivity while promoting environmental stewardship. Applications are accepted year-round, ensuring ongoing support for eligible lands and applicants.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The Michigan Sea Grant is offering Graduate Student Research Fellowships for innovative research in natural or social sciences related to the Great Lakes. Open to M.S. or Ph.D. students, these fellowships support projects for one to two years, with funding of up to $60,000. Notably, a 50% non-federal match is required to secure these funds, ensuring collaboration with local agencies or NGOs. Applications are encouraged before the extended deadline of August 15, 2025.

The Michigan Sea Grant Research Program invites proposals for Core Research projects addressing critical research needs for the Great Lakes and its coastal ecosystems from 2026 to 2028. Projects should enhance decision-making and engage Michigan communities, with a budget of up to $220,000 over two years. Full proposals are due by August 15, 2025, and must include at least 50% non-federal matching funds. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among university researchers and relevant agencies.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Van’t Hof Scholarship

• Graduating senior from one of the following high schools: Black River, Holland Christian, Holland High School, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at Hope College or Calvin University
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• Potentially renewable for three additional years

The MI Wildlife Habitat Grant Program aims to enhance wildlife habitats in Michigan, focusing on grasslands and savannas of at least 100 acres. This initiative supports sustainable wildlife populations as outlined in the Wildlife Division's strategic plan. The program prioritizes projects that improve habitat quality and quantity, aligning with GPS Goal 2 to adapt to environmental changes. Funding is provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural resources.

The MI Snowmobile Trail Improvement Program, managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, supports the maintenance and enhancement of the state's snowmobile trail system. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit snowmobile organizations. Grants cover seasonal grooming, special maintenance projects, and equipment replacement, ensuring trails remain safe and accessible for users. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding awarded for a full fiscal year.

The MI Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Trail Improvement Program, funded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, aims to maintain existing ORV trails, develop new trails, and restore damaged natural resources. Eligible applicants include government agencies and non-profit organizations, focusing on public access facilities. Key projects involve seasonal maintenance, special repairs, and restoration efforts on public lands affected by illegal ORV use. This program ensures sustainable outdoor recreation while preserving Michigan's natural landscapes.

The MI Off Road Vehicle Safety Education Grants aim to enhance safety in off-road vehicle usage through educational programs. Funded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, these grants support certified instructors to conduct safety classes. Eligible applicants include local government agencies and educational institutions in Michigan. Grants provide up to $15 per student for instruction, but do not cover expenses for equipment purchases. This initiative is crucial for promoting safe practices in off-road vehicle operation.

The MI Waterways Program Grants, funded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, offer approximately $3.5 million for engineering studies and infrastructure improvements for local government units and state colleges. Eligible projects require a 50% match of estimated costs, while those demonstrating a qualified need may receive consideration even without the match. Applicants must submit a comprehensive 5-Year Recreation Plan for harbor projects, including maintenance schedules and traffic summaries.

The MI Boating Infrastructure Grants, administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, provide essential funding for constructing public recreational harbor facilities that serve transient boaters. This initiative aims to enhance community health and safety by developing dockage for boats over 26 feet, improving navigational aids, and promoting public access to waterways. Local governments, universities, and private entities are eligible to apply, with grants covering 75% of project costs to ensure vibrant and accessible recreational opportunities.

The MI Natural Resources Trust Fund Grants support projects aimed at protecting natural resources and enhancing outdoor recreation in Michigan. A minimum of 25% of the fund is allocated for public land acquisition and development of recreational facilities. Eligible projects include land acquisitions, fishing and hunting facilities, and various recreational developments. Grants range from $15,000 to $400,000 for development projects, with no limits for land acquisition. Applications are assessed based on established criteria.

The MI Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), managed by the Michigan DNR, supports the development of public outdoor recreation facilities. With grants ranging from $30,000 to $500,000, the program aims to enhance trails, community recreation, and accessibility while promoting local investment in recreation resources. This reimbursement program requires a 50% local match, ensuring communities actively participate in funding their projects. The initiative aligns with Michigan's State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).

The MI Source Water Protection Grants, administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), offer matching funds to public water supply systems. These funds aim to develop and implement source water protection programs that prevent contamination of drinking water sources. Eligible applicants include community and non-profit water systems that demonstrate financial commitment and establish local protection teams. Approximately half a million dollars in funding is available annually to support these crucial initiatives.

The Michigan Clean Diesel Grant Program, managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), aims to reduce diesel emissions by funding projects that replace outdated vehicles and equipment with electric alternatives. Eligible applicants include both public and private entities, with a total funding pool of $1,152,965. Individual grants range from $25,000 to $500,000, supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and align with Michigan's decarbonization goals.