Best Financial Assistance Grants in Michigan

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Charles E. Mueller, M.D. Scholarship

Charles E. Mueller was raised in Long Island, New York. In 1961 he received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University in Washington, DC. He went on to study at the University of Michigan Medical School, graduating in 1965. After an internship at St. Joseph Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, he spent two years in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War where he earned the Army Commendation Medal. In 1968, he returned to Ann Arbor and completed his residency in General Radiology in 1971. From 1971 until July 1972, he was an instructor at the University Hospital. In July 1972, he came to Saginaw and joined Medical Radiologic Consultants (MRC), P.C., servicing Saginaw General Hospital.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

A.C. “Kate” & Leo Joseph Merlone Scholarship Fund

Kate and Leo Merlone understood the value of education, both in formal academia and through any media that would expand a person’s mental horizons.

Commitments to family obligations in their youth did not allow them to continue their formal education to the extent that they had desired. Instead, throughout their lives, they chose self-education through books, travel, museums, volunteer involvement in the community and always good conversations.

They passed on this message of self-education to their children, even as they encouraged them to pursue a higher education. Their strong work ethic and efforts to constantly improve themselves have been a wonderful example for their children and grandchildren.

The Ladies Literary Club Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports students from Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, or Ottawa counties. Eligible applicants must be studying writing in Michigan and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship aims to empower local talent by removing barriers to academic success, enabling passionate students to pursue their educational goals and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The Northwest Michigan Osteopathic Scholarship, provided by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, supports MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine students who are in good standing and have ties to rural Northern Michigan. Established in 1992, the foundation is dedicated to fostering positive change in the region by supporting local causes like education, health services, and community development.

The Joyce Foundation's Journalism Grants support independent, nonpartisan reporting to address critical issues in the Great Lakes region. By investing in high-quality journalism, the Foundation aims to promote informed decision-making and strengthen community cohesion. Eligible applicants include nonprofit journalism organizations and projects that enhance local news and support early career journalists, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. The application process requires advance planning, with funding decisions made quarterly.

The John Charles Volderauer Scholarship, provided by the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, aims to support students at the WMU Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. This one-time, non-renewable award helps facilitate access to medical education, reflecting KZCF's commitment to racial and economic justice in Kalamazoo County. Since 1925, KZCF has worked to create equitable educational opportunities, ensuring that aspiring medical professionals receive the necessary support to succeed in their careers.

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Battle Creek Kennel Club Scholarship Fund

The Battle Creek Kennel Club Scholarship is awarded to a student currently attending the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University. The recipient must be a resident of the Kennel Club service area. Upon graduation, the recipient must plan to enter a small animal practice.

The Battle Creek Kennel Club is a member of the American Kennel Club. As such, it sponsors two shows and a puppy match each year. It encourages and supports good sportsmanship and responsible dog ownership. Among its other projects are support of the Calhoun County 4-H and State 4-H canine programs.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The NCR-SARE Graduate Student Grant Program funds up to $20,000 for graduate student projects addressing sustainable agriculture in the North Central Region. Established in 2002, it supports Master's and Ph.D. students at accredited institutions. Projects can last up to 36 months, and applicants may receive only one grant during their academic career. The program aims to promote innovative solutions to agricultural challenges and enhance sustainability practices in the region.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

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.

The Gil Gabanski Student Scholarship, provided by the MGWA Foundation, offers multiple $2,000 awards for undergraduate and graduate students studying at accredited institutions in Minnesota and nearby areas. This scholarship aims to ease educational expenses and foster interest in groundwater-related careers, including hydrogeology and groundwater geology. It also promotes mentorship opportunities for early-career students, honoring Gil Gabanski's legacy in the geosciences community.

The Otis Smith Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, provides non-renewable scholarships of up to $3,000 for single parent mothers pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. Established to honor Otis M. Smith's mother, the program aims to empower women in southeastern Michigan, particularly those demonstrating financial need and strong academic potential. Applications are open until February 12, 2025, and recipients may use funds for tuition or educational expenses.

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 Tom F. Bunge Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that assist homeless individuals, reflecting the legacy of its founder, Tom F. Bunge. Established in St. Joseph County, Indiana, the trust awards approximately 10 grants annually, with a preference for local organizations. To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) exempt organizations. The trust aims to address homelessness without geographical restrictions, although it focuses on Indiana and Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

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 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

Michigan 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.

Mission: Expand economic opportunity and prosperity for all. Vision: Make Michigan a place where all people, businesses and communities have the economic means and personal freedoms to reach their full potential.

3P STEM Education Grants

MiSTEM is reimagining STEM education using transdisciplinary approaches to create a STEM culture, empower instructors, integrate communities and learning spaces, and ensure high-quality STEM experiences for students.

The MiSTEM Network will award up to $800,000 in mini grants (up to $50,000 per grantee) to boost STEM education and career exposure for students. An important focus of this grant program is planning to implement 3P learning (Place-, Project-, and/or Problem-based) Learning in Michigan.

These materials were developed under a MiSTEM grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education and a grant awarded by General Motors Corporate Citizenship. These mini grants are administered by Michigan State University and Beyond Consulting, LLC.

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.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

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.