Best Financial Assistance Grants in Michigan

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

The Hoffman Family Scholarship, established by Bud and Charyn Hoffman, supports first-generation college students from Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Fruitport high schools. The scholarship prioritizes applicants demonstrating financial need and maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA. Awardees will be considered for all foundation scholarships through a single application process. Preference is given to students planning to attend public universities or community colleges in Michigan, fostering educational opportunities for those who might be the first in their families to pursue higher education.

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.  

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

The Asia-Pacific region, home to over half the world's population, faces challenges due to its development goals, which strain natural resources, communities, and cultural heritage. These issues are exacerbated by adverse environmental changes. While research has shed light on these problems, it's clear that more challenges lie ahead. The Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) is well-positioned to generate new knowledge and solutions for these evolving global change and sustainability issues by supporting collaborative research and scientific capacity development activities, particularly those aimed at training the next generation of early career professionals.

APN 2025 Call for Proposals: CAPaBLE Programmes

CAPaBLE, our scientific capacity development programme, aims to enhance the capacity of scientists, policymakers and practitioners to assess global change issues, and explore options to resolve issues towards achieving sustainability. Through CAPaBLE, we support activities that enhance capacity at individual, organizational and systemic levels.

Activities of interest under the CAPaBLE Programme

APN supports CAPaBLE activities that enhance existing capacities of developing countries at three levels of individual-based capacity development; group, organisation, network-based capacity development; and societies, governance, and system level capacity development. APN accepts CAPaBLE proposals that engage 1 or more member/approved countries. Proposals must address one or more of the following activities:

SCIENTIFIC CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES that promote the following approaches related to one or more of the six thematic areas of APN:

• Utilising and strengthening existing capacity, 
• Creating opportunities to use/instil capacity, 
• Developing new capacity through innovative approaches.

AWARENESS-RAISING AND DISSEMINATION activities through policy- and decision-making communities, civil society, and/or the general public.

SCIENCE-POLICY interfacing in the context of the priority topics.

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP ACTIVITIES that contribute to the capacity development components of the evolving global change arena, including the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, IPCC, IPBES, post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the UN Decade of Ocean Science, and ongoing and new global change and sustainability research programmes.

Activities geared towards using SCIENCE COMMUNICATION to disseminate knowledge generated from projects, particularly to non-science audiences.

The Peter Renstrom Prize, established in 2006 at Western Michigan University, honors a senior political science student intending to attend law school. Named after Dr. Peter Renstrom, an expert in constitutional law, this award recognizes academic excellence, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. The prize aims to support students from any department, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering future leaders in law and public service.

The Lucille Abbott Nobbs and Alpha Beta Epsilon Endowed Scholarship supports full-time junior, senior, or graduate students at Western Michigan University, prioritizing ABE WMU Sorority members and those in teacher education. Applicants must provide proof of eligibility and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The award covers tuition, fees, and books, and may be renewable for up to two consecutive years if criteria are met and funding allows.

The Kelly Carman Memorial Scholarship supports full-time junior, senior, or graduate students at Western Michigan University College of Education and Human Development, particularly those pursuing early childhood or elementary education. Eligible candidates must be U.S. residents, enrolled full-time, and can renew the scholarship for a maximum of two consecutive years. Special consideration is given to non-traditional students, ensuring diverse applicants benefit from this scholarship opportunity.

The Bess L. Stinson Scholarship supports students enrolled in any program within the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University. Candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, although a GPA of 2.5 may be accepted with a faculty recommendation. This scholarship may be renewed upon reapplication, provided that the eligibility requirements are still met and funding is available.

The Arden J. Elsasser Memorial Award, established by the League of Women Voters of Kalamazoo, honors the legacy of Arden J. Elsasser for his service to the community. This award is open annually to both graduate and undergraduate students, aiming to recognize their dedication to community service. Applicants must submit a statement detailing their studies and career goals, reflecting on how their activities embody the values of Arden Elsasser. Key deadlines are February 1 for nominations and March 1 for all applications.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Iagnocco Family Study Abroad Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University's Department of Political Science, supports political science students studying abroad. Eligible applicants must have a major or minor in political science, at least 42 credit hours, and demonstrate academic excellence. Awards can reach up to $1,000, with preferences given to those with more completed political science hours. Community service and alignment with career goals will also be considered, enhancing the scholarship's impact.

The John R. Borsos Endowed Scholarship, offered by the WMU Department of Political Science, supports graduate students pursuing political science. Established in memory of John R. Borsos, this scholarship awards approximately $2,000 annually. To apply, candidates must submit an essay and references, ensuring they maintain a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. The scholarship emphasizes academic merit, with applications open to students enrolled in the graduate program for the fall semester.

The Mark Denenfeld Memorial Endowed Scholarship is awarded to outstanding undergraduate political science majors at Western Michigan University. This scholarship, established in memory of Mark Denenfeld, provides up to $500 for the academic year. Eligible candidates must be senior political science majors with a strong academic record and community service involvement. Preference is given to those with more completed credit hours in political science. Applications are accepted annually.

The Dr. Claude and Nancy Phillips Dissertation Research Award at Western Michigan University provides up to $500 annually to support doctoral students in political science with their dissertation research. Applicants must submit a two-to-three page statement detailing their research plans and a budget for the intended use of funds. To be eligible, students must be in good standing and have achieved candidacy before the application deadline of February 1.

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.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The Dr. H. Nicholas Hamner Undergraduate Support Fund at Western Michigan University offers financial assistance to undergraduate students in the Department of History. Established through a generous gift from Dr. Hamner, this endowed fund covers educational expenses, including tuition, fees, and books. Applications are due by March 15 and should be submitted to the department chair, providing vital support for students pursuing their academic goals.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Zonta–Ann Mapes Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available for women pursuing a degree in business, science, maritime, aviation, culinary or nursing, leading to career employment. Eligible students will be enrolled at a minimum as a junior in any state accredited college, or a NMC Baccalaureate program, with at least a 3.0 GPA, and be a resident of Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Kalkaska, or Antrim Counties.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The SACF Community Impact Grants aim to support programs focused on health for youth under 18 and senior citizens in Cheboygan County and Mackinaw City. Preference is given to initiatives addressing substance abuse, mental health, healthcare access, early childhood development, and environmental stewardship. Non-profit organizations that meet eligibility criteria can apply for funding for future projects, with a focus on innovative proposals that demonstrate collaborative funding support.

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 Marine Safety Grants (MI) program, funded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance safety in recreational watercraft use through law enforcement and educational initiatives. These grants support county sheriff departments in Michigan, based on factors such as public water patrol areas and the effectiveness of boating safety programs. Funding can cover up to 75% of state expenditures or 100% of federal costs, ensuring communities have the resources needed for marine safety.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

The Team One Credit Union – Mary J. Ewing Scholarship, established in 1993, honors the dedication of Mary Ewing to the credit union community. This scholarship supports students aiming for careers in technical fields, encouraging those with a minimum 3.0 GPA, residing in Saginaw County, and pursuing undergraduate degrees at Michigan colleges. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it aims to assist students in overcoming financial barriers to education and thriving in skilled trades.

The Team One Credit Union – Theron & Marion Fager Scholarship honors the legacy of dedicated educators Theron and Marion Fager, who committed their lives to community service and education in Saginaw. Established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, this scholarship supports high school seniors pursuing technical education at Michigan State University. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be active members of Team One Credit Union. Financial awards range from $500 to $4,000, fostering the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

The ReFED Catalytic Grant Fund, managed by Refed Inc., supports innovative solutions to minimize food waste and reduce methane emissions, a cost-effective strategy for climate action. This fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance food recycling and improve supply chain efficiency in the beef and dairy sectors. By focusing on proven methods, the grant aims to accelerate impactful changes in the food system, ultimately fostering sustainable practices and collaborative efforts to combat food waste.