Best Grants for Museums in Michigan

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

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.

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 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 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 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 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 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 Invasive Species Grant Program (MISGP) aims to combat both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species through prevention, detection, eradication, and control strategies. Jointly managed by the Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, and Agriculture, this program focuses on strengthening the early detection network, preventing new invasions, and controlling established species. Funding is prioritized based on specific criteria, project metrics, and geographic location, ensuring effective resource allocation.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Midwest Region Student Travel Award

Each year, CSA travel funding in an amount up to $750 is available for a Midwest Region Student Member to present at the National Symposium of The Costume Society of America. Awards may be distributed among multiple student members.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Knizacky Family Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Fabian Knizacky, who established the Knizacky Family Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

This scholarship is presented to graduating seniors from any Mason County School, Manistee Catholic School, or Manistee High School who have a Freesoil Community connection. The student must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0. He or she must demonstrate leadership ability, community involvement, and extracurricular high school activities. The recipient may pursue any degree at any Michigan two or four-year accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Distinguished Contribution Award

The purpose of the Distinguished Contribution Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a member who has conducted or promoted research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award

The purpose of the Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a new investigator who has conducted nursing research that has the potential to enhance the science and practice of nursing.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an MNRS member who has demonstrated sustained influential leadership and service to the organization, such as chairing committees, organizing annual conference activities, or serving on the Board of Directors. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an MNRS member who has significantly advanced the profession of nursing either through an extensive program of research or creation of environments where research can flourish, and whose sustained leadership and distinguished career yielded outstanding and noteworthy accomplishments. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

The Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Award

The purpose of the Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award is to recognize the contribution of a member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to advance equitable health outcomes and reduce health disparities through research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.  

About the Foundation

The Council of Michigan Foundations leads, strengthens and supports Michigan's community of philanthropy by emboldening and equipping CMF members in the relentless pursuit of equitable systems and inclusive diversity, fortifying the field through public policy action, fostering the growth of current and future philanthropy leaders and advancing exemplary philanthropic practices and field expertise. 

Vision

A thriving philanthropic sector leading in the relentless pursuit of equitable systems and inclusive diversity. 

Mission

We lead, strengthen and support Michigan’s community of philanthropy. The Grant

There are several grant opportunities available for CMF community foundation members through CMF’s Technology Grants: 

• Software Training: Support for software training of general ledger, donor or grants management systems
  • This option is limited to 50% of the total cost, with a maximum of $2,500 available per request. 
• Team-up Grants: This support could be used for group training or software development. 
  • Up to $5,000 in support is available for a group technology/software project that benefits at least three community foundations. 
• Transition Support: Support is available for key staff turnover or for a transition to a third-party accounting provider.
  • This support may be used to assist in the purchase, migration and or training costs related to these transitions. a maximum $5000 is available.
• Cybersecurity Audit: Support for community foundations with assets under $50 million is available to support the Digital Elevation Information Technology Security Assessment process.
  • Grant levels are as follows:
    • Assets of $1 - $10 million: $2,000
    • Assets over $10 - $25 million: $1,500
    • Assets over $25 - $50 million: $1,000

• Equipment Purchase: Support up to $2,500 for the purchase of equipment such as laptops, printers or other electronic devices (i.e. OWL cameras).
  • This option is limited to foundations with assets under $25 million and should be used for one-time purchases such as staff expansions or emergency replacements only.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.