Best Grants for the Arts in Michigan

Experience Support Grant Program

The Experience Support grant program provides arts and culture-related project funding to Michigan organizations for which arts and culture is not the primary focus of the organization’s mission. Eligible applicants include municipalities, tribal entities, PreK-12 schools, colleges/universities, and non-arts/culture 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Applicants can submit one grant application to request funding in any/all of these categories: Project Support, Facility Enhancement & Equipment Purchase, Professional/Organizational Development and Transportation.

Facility Improvement & Equipment

Facility Improvement & Equipment funding is designed to assist organizations with both facility improvements and/or the purchase of equipment related to the arts and culture programming, services, and/or activities the organization provides to its audiences and communities. Organizations may request any combination of facility improvement and/or equipment needs up to the maximum request amount. Organizations applying for Facility Improvement needs must have proof of ownership of the building or evidence of a long-term lease.

• Allowable Expenses:
  • Expansion, renovation, or construction of applicant-owned cultural facilities
  • Facility structure or system maintenance of applicant-owned cultural facilities
  • Feasibility studies, architectural drawings/fees, and design fees
  • Construction and project management costs
  • Purchase of equipment directly related to the organization’s arts/cultural production 

Experience Support Grant Program

The Experience Support grant program provides arts and culture-related project funding to Michigan organizations for which arts and culture is not the primary focus of the organization’s mission. Eligible applicants include municipalities, tribal entities, PreK-12 schools, colleges/universities, and non-arts/culture 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Applicants can submit one grant application to request funding in any/all of these categories: Project Support, Facility Enhancement & Equipment Purchase, Professional/Organizational Development and Field Trips.

Professional & Organizational Development

Professional/Organizational Development funding is designed to assist an organization in providing arts and culture-related educational opportunities that increase the knowledge and skills of the organization’s personnel. Only staff members, contracted employees, board members, and/or volunteers may be selected to participate in the organization’s Professional/Organizational Development request.

• Allowable Expenses:
  • Registration fees directly related to an in-person or virtual professional development opportunity including conferences, training, or certification
  • Consultant fees directly related to organizational development opportunities including strategic planning, coalition building, fundraising planning, needs assessment, grant writing, and board governance
  • Travel (in OR out-of-state) including meals and lodging
  • Materials directly related to the professional development opportunity

Experience Support Grant Program

The Experience Support grant program provides arts and culture-related project funding to Michigan organizations for which arts and culture is not the primary focus of the organization’s mission. Eligible applicants include municipalities, tribal entities, PreK-12 schools, colleges/universities, and non-arts/culture 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Applicants can submit one grant application to request funding in any/all of these categories: Project Support, Facility Enhancement & Equipment Purchase, Professional/Organizational Development and Transportation.

Field Trips

Field trip funding is designed to assist organizations that have a need to transport participants in “field trip” style events to engage in arts and cultural programming/services/activities. The transportation costs may be associated with both in-state and out-of-state travel. The transportation funding may be related to (or may be separate from) any other project applied for within this Experience Support grant application.

The funding may be used in one (or both) of the following ways:

• Transporting a group of participants to the applicant’s venue to participate in the applicant’s arts and cultural programming/services/activities.
• Transporting a group of the applicant’s participants to a different organization’s venue to participate in arts and cultural programming/services/activities. 

Experience Support Grant Program

The Experience Support grant program provides arts and culture-related project funding to Michigan organizations for which arts and culture is not the primary focus of the organization’s mission. Eligible applicants include municipalities, tribal entities, PreK-12 schools, colleges/universities, and non-arts/culture 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Applicants can submit one grant application to request funding in any/all of these categories: Project Support, Facility Enhancement & Equipment Purchase, Professional/Organizational Development and Field Trips.

Project Support

Project Support funding is designed to support the production, presentation, and creation of arts and culture experiences for Michigan communities. Projects may range anywhere from a single, one-day event to a program that takes place over the entire grant period. Experience opportunities resulting from grant funds must be open to the public. Grant funds can only be used for the specific arts and culture related project that is awarded (cannot be used for any of the organization’s non-arts and culture-related programs).

• Allowable Expenses:
  • Fees related to hiring artists and/or culture bearers such as wages, honoraria, and residencies
  • In-state travel expenses including transportation of equipment and lodging for artists/culture bearers
  • Staff time directly related to the project
  • Production supplies
  • Marketing expenses
  • Fees related to renting a facility for the project

The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation aims to enhance the educational, economic, cultural, and religious lives of Michigan residents. Grants are made exclusively to 501(c)(3) or governmental organizations in Michigan. The foundation seeks proposals with clearly defined objectives and strong management, prioritizing innovative programs that can achieve long-term sustainability. Collaborations that foster synergy towards common goals are encouraged, while support is not extended to discriminatory or political organizations.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

The Baiardi Family Foundation (BFF) awards grants primarily in Michigan, focusing on the Detroit Metropolitan Area and Emmet County. Their mission is to foster positive change through various giving categories, including healthcare, education, the arts, and environmental stewardship. They emphasize the importance of Catholic and Judeo-Christian values in their grant-making process. Note that they do not provide grants to individuals, and all requests are evaluated based on merit to align with their guiding principles.

The Wolverine Worldwide Foundation Grant aims to enhance community well-being through dedicated support in areas such as health, education, and environmental sustainability. Founded in 1959, the foundation focuses on promoting healthy lifestyles, diversifying trades, and advancing community initiatives. By engaging with local organizations, it fosters inclusive opportunities across West Michigan, Boston, Richmond, and London, ultimately striving for a positive impact in the communities it serves.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Tuscola County Community Foundation's Founders Fund Grant supports innovative and start-up projects from grassroots or smaller non-profits. Established in 1997, this fund aims to improve the quality of life in Tuscola County by providing grants up to $600 for various charitable initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that yield substantial community benefits, foster collaboration, and leverage additional local funding, ensuring lasting impact beyond the grant period.

The Roy and Gloria Dinsdale Foundation, established in 2022, is dedicated to enhancing lives in rural Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado through grants exceeding $10,000. It supports nonprofits and government entities focused on food, shelter, healthcare, education, and the arts. The foundation prioritizes local initiatives that enrich communities and improve access to essential services, while maintaining a commitment to assisting veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities.

The Tuscola County Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Tuscola County by funding innovative projects that leverage local resources and foster collaboration among organizations. Established in 1997, the foundation supports a variety of charitable initiatives, prioritizing those that yield significant community benefits. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and other tax-exempt entities, with a focus on projects that can sustain impact beyond the grant period.

Impact100 Detroit provides high-impact grants of up to $100,000 to support local nonprofits in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties. The program focuses on five key areas: Arts & Culture, Education, Family & Individual Support, Health & Wellness, and Revitalization & Environment. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, have a proven financial history, and demonstrate innovative approaches that address community needs and serve underserved populations.

The 2025 Vilcek Foundation Grants aim to support nonprofit organizations that celebrate immigrant contributions to the arts and sciences. The foundation invites applications from organizations operating under U.S. IRS Section 501(c)(3) that promote diversity and inclusivity. Grants will be prioritized for new partners and those in states without prior funding. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering appreciation for immigrant communities and their impact on society.

Impact100 Macomb County is a women-led nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing community well-being through impactful grants. Each member contributes $1,000 annually, directly funding significant projects in areas like Health, Arts, Environment, Family, and Education. Grants typically exceed $100,000 and prioritize sustainable projects that serve local residents of Macomb County, ensuring measurable benefits within a 36-month period. The organization focuses on collaboration among eligible public charities to foster meaningful change.

The Impact100 Global Veterans Awards empower women to make a significant difference by awarding grants up to $100,000 to nonprofits that serve veterans. Focus areas include art and culture, education, health and wellness, environment, and family initiatives, promoting the well-being and support of veterans across the United States. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including tax-exempt status, and are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize funds effectively within two years.

Impact100 Genesee County is dedicated to providing grants to nonprofits that focus on enhancing community welfare through various sectors, including arts, education, environment, and health. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, based in Genesee County, and meet specific financial criteria. The initiative prioritizes projects that support underserved populations and address critical community needs, ensuring impactful use of funds within two years.

The Impact100 Little Traverse Bay Grant Program supports nonprofits in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties, focusing on community improvement in areas such as Arts & Culture, Environment, Health & Wellness, Education, and Family. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities based in these counties, with funds exclusively used within the region. The program promotes innovative initiatives that enhance life quality while ensuring sustainability and accountability through periodic progress reports.

The Chapman Prize, established by the Daniel and Barbara Chapman Trust, honors individuals and organizations making significant contributions to American society. Each year, the award focuses on a theme; in 2025, it will spotlight Economic Prosperity. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens and nonprofits with three years of charitable work demonstrating impact in the chosen field. Approximately $100,000 will be awarded annually to support endeavors that enhance economic prosperity through various initiatives.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation supports arts and culture initiatives in Southeast Michigan, with a focus on strengthening jazz culture and mentorship traditions. They provide funding for professional development opportunities for artists and promote audience engagement through music education. The foundation envisions a vibrant cultural landscape and is committed to making bold investments that address community needs while fostering collaboration among local organizations.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Creation & Development Fund, administered by the National Performance Network, supports the creation and mobility of artistic works that promote racial and cultural justice. It fosters collaboration between artists and communities through financial support, enabling artists to develop meaningful relationships and present their work. The fund emphasizes equity, access, and the importance of public engagement, ensuring that diverse voices are represented while addressing systemic injustices in the arts.

The Vilcek Foundation's 2026 Prizes for Creative Promise in Fashion & Design and Fashion & Culture will award six $50,000 prizes to young immigrant professionals. This initiative recognizes early- and mid-career creatives in fields such as fashion design, writing, and styling, highlighting the vital contributions of immigrants to the arts in the U.S. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience and intend to pursue their careers in the country.

BMO Gives is committed to fostering positive societal impact through community support and charitable initiatives. It focuses on enhancing community and economic resilience, as well as environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or non-profits operating in Canada or the U.S. and align with BMO's corporate values, which promote inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program aims to support projects that address significant societal needs and empower local communities.

The Valley Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Santa Clara County and beyond by supporting qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. Focused on educational, historical, and preservation initiatives, the Foundation provides essential funding to groups dedicated to societal improvement. By fostering partnerships with like-minded entities, The Valley Foundation strives to create lasting positive change through its grant-making efforts.