Best Jackson County Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

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 Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The So All Youth Can Play Sports Grant, supported by the Wirebaugh Family, aims to enable youth in Jackson County, Michigan, to engage in sports activities. This initiative focuses on providing financial assistance for children under 18 who may struggle to afford participation in organized sports during the Summer or Fall seasons. By encouraging youth involvement in sports, the grant promotes teamwork, social skills, and a healthier lifestyle, ultimately contributing to their overall development and success.

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 JCF Community Impact Operational Support Grants aim to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in Jackson County by providing operational support to eligible 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations. Grants range from $10,000 to $20,000 based on the organization's annual budget. This initiative is funded by the Community Needs Endowment Fund, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and advocacy. Nonprofits can apply for these funds to address their operational needs and further their impact.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Youth Impact Grant, administered by the Jackson Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Committee, aims to support youth-focused initiatives in Jackson County, Michigan. It provides funding to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government entities that create positive impacts on local youth. This grant not only benefits the community but also empowers student volunteers by enhancing their leadership skills and philanthropic experience. Applications for projects that cater to youth needs are currently being accepted.

The Communities in Action Grant Program, funded by the Jackson Community Foundation, aims to empower grassroots organizations and neighborhood groups in Jackson County. It supports initiatives that enhance community engagement and cohesion, focusing on projects that bring together diverse populations and address challenges faced by historically underserved communities. Applicants need not have formal nonprofit status; the emphasis is on collective action and resourcefulness, fostering pride and identity within local neighborhoods.

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.

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 PLTW Engineering - New Program, supported by Burns & McDonnell, aims to empower U.S. students through STEM education. By offering at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year, schools can enhance their curriculum and foster critical skills. This initiative not only increases access to valuable programs but also prepares students for future challenges in college and careers, ensuring they thrive in an evolving world.

The PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion initiative aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in communities served by Burns & McDonnell. This partnership focuses on empowering students through real-world learning experiences, helping them develop essential skills for future careers. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs to foster greater participation and engagement in STEM fields.

The PLTW Gateway - New Program, in partnership with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance student engagement in STEM by providing teachers with essential resources and support. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, eligible schools can apply for grants to introduce and expand PLTW programs, fostering real-world skills through applied learning. This initiative targets schools with significant free and reduced-price lunch populations, promoting equity in education across various U.S. counties.

The PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion initiative, led by Burns & McDonnell in partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW), aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to PLTW programs for students in eligible communities. This program empowers students through real-world applied learning experiences, promoting essential skills for college and careers. Grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Gateway programs starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, fostering a brighter future through education.

The PLTW Launch - New Program initiative, sponsored by Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to eligible schools within specific U.S. counties. Schools must implement PLTW modules over two academic years, ensuring access to real-world learning experiences for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. This program emphasizes the importance of empowering educators and fostering student engagement in STEM fields to prepare them for future careers.

The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion initiative by Burns & McDonnell aims to enhance access to STEM education in U.S. schools. This program focuses on empowering students by providing real-world learning experiences and essential skills. Grants will support schools in expanding PLTW programs during the 2026-2027 academic year, benefiting students from underserved communities. By fostering a deeper understanding of STEM, the initiative seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The YAC Youth Mental Health Grant, administered by the Jackson Community Foundation, aims to address critical youth mental health issues identified by over 800 local high school students. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant supports 501(c)3 nonprofits, school districts, churches, and government units dedicated to enhancing mental health resources for youth in Jackson County, Michigan. By prioritizing these initiatives, the grant seeks to foster a healthier community for young residents.

The Dunkirk Community Funds: Dr. H. L. Shroyer Christian Love Scholarship, established in 1970, provides scholarships to high school graduates from Jay County and nearby areas who exemplify Christ’s love in their daily lives. The scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate strong moral character and faith through an essay on the significance of Christ’s love. This fund was transferred to the Portland Foundation in 2023, enhancing its mission to foster community growth and opportunity.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Jackson Family Scholarship

Scholarship awards are made to students who are either seeking to enter the nursing profession or who are currently in the nursing profession and wish to obtain a higher level of certification in the nursing field (LVN to RN, RN to BSN). Applicants must have completed at least 2 semesters that are applicable to their nursing degree.

The Jackson Family Scholarship was originally established in 2007 to support promising students in nurse training programs. The donors decided to focus on nursing because they both recognized the important contributions nurses make to patients’ well-being, and the increased need for well-trained nurses in the future. Through these awards, the Jackson Family Scholarship Fund will make positive contributions to excellent students and help build the nursing workforce of the future.

In 2019 the fund moved to the Community Foundation with the intent to support students specifically in the North State region. Scholarship awards will be made to students who are either seeking to enter the nursing profession or who are currently in the nursing profession and wish to obtain a higher level of certification in the nursing field (LVN to RN, RN to BSN). Applicants must have completed at least 2 semesters that are applicable to their nursing degree. Priority consideration will be given to nurses who plan to work in the California “North State”.

The Asheville Wilbert Vault Service Scholarship, established by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, offers financial aid to residents pursuing a career in funeral services. This scholarship is aimed at individuals from the 18 westernmost counties of North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. Eligible applicants must be seniors in secondary school or graduates and can apply funds to any relevant post-high school educational program. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to supporting local communities.

The Mary Eleanor Morris Scholarship, established by the estate of Mary Eleanor Leonard Morris, supports educational opportunities for graduating seniors from Logan County, Ohio. This scholarship reflects Morris's enduring commitment to community service, benefiting students from various local high schools. Eligible candidates must not hold significant national scholarships and must plan to attend an accredited educational institution in the U.S. This initiative aims to empower local youth and foster their educational aspirations.