Best Financial Assistance Grants in Michigan

DREAMS Grant Program

DREAMS For Duchenne

Launched in 2023, Entrada DREAMS is a competitive annual grant program designed to fund efforts within the Duchenne muscular dystrophy community to better identify, understand and reach those who are currently underrepresented and underserved.

DREAMS and Belonging

Entrada is building a company culture where everyone can belong, contribute and grow. In the same way, we are committed to working toward a healthcare system that is equitable and inclusive. Entrada DREAMS is part of our commitment to support Duchenne-focused non-profit organizations in their efforts to address disparities in healthcare and to better serve all people living with Duchenne.

DREAMS and Impact

DREAMS has funded transformative projects that bridge healthcare disparities and strengthen community connections. Keep reading to learn more about past recipients and their projects.

This year, two nonprofit organizations will each receive a $50,000 USD grant to fund projects that advance equity, accessibility and inclusion for individuals with Duchenne. Entrada will award one grant to a U.S.-based nonprofit and another to a nonprofit in the UK or EU.

The Frances Parker Rupert Memorial Fund for Music and the Performing Arts provides scholarships to talented students pursuing music or performing arts degrees. Established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, this fund aims to support high school seniors from specific counties, considering their potential and financial need. Applicants must demonstrate their artistic abilities and articulate how this scholarship will aid their educational goals in a two-page essay.

Who We Are

We weave the work of communities, connecting and uplifting passionate people, critical resources and transformational ideas. Working side by side with every corner and sector of our region, we have identified social and economic justice as the most critical elements to a thriving community. We serve to advance efforts in these areas by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and authentic engagement for a more equitable southwest Washington.

John and Maradee Potter Scholarship

Maradee Potter established this scholarship to honor her husband, John who died in 2021. John was retired from his career as a proofreader legal editor. John and Maradee were married for 36 years. Maradee is honoring her husband and her work to provide scholarships for students who have graduated from high schools located in Clark County, Washington and have been a recipient of Special Education services with a documented disability. Maradee worked in the Vancouver Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher during her career and continues to be an advocate for people with disabilities by serving on the Clark County Community Services Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board and Homes for Community Living Board. It is important to the donor that people with disabilities have equitable access to education and the support necessary to pursue post-secondary education and career training.

Award Information

The number and amount of scholarships will be determined by the scholarship committee. The scholarship may be renewable. Renewal applicants must reapply each year.

The AABE National & Regional Scholarship, awarded by the American Association of Blacks in Energy, supports students pursuing careers in the energy sector. Annually, over $350,000 is distributed through multiple scholarships, including six regional awards of $3,000 and one national award of $5,000, renewable for up to four years. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to energy-related fields, promoting diversity and equity in education.

The Michael Herman Scholarship, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, honors a talented young soccer player who passed away tragically at 15. This scholarship is awarded to graduating high school seniors from the Tri-Cities area who have played soccer and wish to continue participating in college-level soccer. Financial need is not a priority, and all eligible students are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to further their education while pursuing their passion for sports.

The Chairman Tommy Taylor Memorial Scholarship

The Chairman Tommy Taylor Memorial Scholarship was opened by the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers in 2014 in memory of Tom Taylor, a former chairman of the alliance. He was a prominent figure in the oil & gas industry and an esteemed leader. The one-time $2,500 scholarship is for graduating seniors and currently enrolled college students who have graduated from a Texas high school. The student's field of study must be energy or oil and gas industry-related, including petroleum, geology, and engineering. The award can be used at any college or university.

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) are seeking innovative research applications for non-invasive imaging technologies to study the human olfactory system. This initiative emphasizes the need for advanced multimodal imaging techniques to enhance diagnostic capabilities for olfactory disorders, addressing challenges posed by the system's unique anatomical features. Collaboration among experts is encouraged to foster impactful research developments.

The Blue Mountain Community Foundation Common Scholarship supports current high school seniors and graduates from Walla Walla, Columbia, Garfield, or Umatilla County who have been residents for at least three consecutive years. It also includes adults residing in these counties and those working in the wine industry or pursuing degrees at the University of Idaho or WSU. This scholarship simplifies the application process by allowing students to apply once for multiple scholarships.

The Adult Learner Scholarship by College Now Greater Cleveland supports adult students aged 19 and older who have interrupted their education. Eligible applicants must be pursuing a first bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, or a vocational certificate. This renewable scholarship, which ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 annually, is available for up to five years or until degree completion. Applicants must meet GPA requirements and reside in specific Northeast Ohio counties, ensuring access to education for returning learners.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) invites proposals for the Bats for the Future Fund RFP to combat white-nose syndrome (WNS) affecting bat populations in North America. This initiative seeks to advance treatments, implement management strategies, and support research that enhances bat survival and recovery. A match of 50% of the grant amount is preferred, aimed at fostering innovative conservation efforts and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the future of affected bat species.

The MSA Climate Change Research Award, offered by the Mycological Society of America, supports innovative research addressing the impacts of climate change through the lens of fungal studies. Ideal candidates include undergraduates, graduate students, and post-doctoral scientists who are MSA members or have applied for membership. This award encourages collaboration and aims to disseminate research findings to the global scientific community, fostering inclusivity across various demographics.

Healthcare Assistance Grant

The MS Focus Healthcare Assistance Grant assists uninsured individuals with the cost of visiting their MS specialist as well as dental assistance. The grant, which can pay for one visit and one follow-up, is designed to assist those already diagnosed with MS who may need a visit to their treating physician to renew a prescription or handle other important needs. 

Applicants give MS Focus staff authorization to negotiate costs directly with the provider, and the fee is paid directly to the doctor. 

The IEN-WMAN Mini-Grant Program provides crucial financial support to Indigenous communities and grassroots organizations impacted by mining in the U.S. and Canada. With over $200,000 distributed annually in $4,000 grants, the program aims to address mining-related environmental and health issues. Priority is given to proposals that demonstrate a direct impact on affected communities, particularly Indigenous-led initiatives, ensuring that financial assistance is directed where it is most needed.

The Bureau of Land Management's Plant Conservation and Restoration Program (PCRP) aims to enhance the native seed supply chain, crucial for restoring resilient public lands. By collaborating with various partners, PCRP seeks to improve rangeland health, restore wildlife habitats, and create job opportunities. In 2026, the focus will be on local seed collections, supporting farmers entering the native seed market, and developing innovative technologies to ensure effective restoration outcomes and ecological resilience.

The Howard Youth Endowment Program Grant, established by John E. N. and DeDe Howard through the Berrien Community Foundation, aims to enhance youth activities in Saint Joseph and Benton Harbor, Michigan. This grant supports nonprofit, school, church, and government organizations, with a preference for projects occurring at Howard facilities. The foundation envisions stronger communities by connecting caring individuals with impactful causes, ensuring the continuous development of vibrant, sustainable environments for youth.

The NHLBI is launching a Limited Competition Small Grant Program aimed at NHLBI career development award recipients. This program supports researchers transitioning to independence by providing small grants for expanding research objectives or initiating new studies based on their prior work. It encourages applicants to form collaborations and develop impactful projects, although applications are not currently being solicited. This initiative aims to facilitate the generation of essential preliminary data and publications, aiding recipients in their K-to-R transition.

Samsung Solve For Tomorrow

The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition asks students to consider how science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) can be used to create change in their communities. With the help of their teachers, students compete to win up to $100,000 in prizes for their school, plus the opportunity to work with Samsung employees to develop their innovations. 

Guidelines

Your teacher will apply on behalf of your team by answering these five questions, each in 1,000 characters or less.

• Describe the community challenge or issue you are planning to tackle.
• How will STEM be applied to address this challenge or issue?
• What is the anticipated impact to your local community?
• What activities will you put in place to achieve your goals?
• How will you define and measure success?

Your solution may go through many iterations as you test and refine the idea, but the problem you are solving should remain the same throughout the competition. .

Once your teacher submits your team’s application, the fun begins! Get to work building your solution, gathering data, and iterating as you go. 

Helpful Tips

• Choose a problem that you and your classmates are truly passionate about solving.
• Pick a topic that's manageable for your team and realistic to execute within the bounds of the competition. Feasibility is included in the judges’ scoring rubric.
• Consider the audience you are developing a solution for and get their input as you work.
• Leverage your local community. See if you can connect with your town government or other leaders in your area to get them invested in and excited about your project.
• Remember to back up any claims with facts and statistics.

Reasons to get involved

• Prizes for your school range from $1,000 all the way up to $100,000.
• Community recognition: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow participants and winners are frequently featured in the local news.
• Build crucial skills in areas like public speaking, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.
• Collaborate with your peers on a project you feel passionate about.
• Help your community become a better place with your innovative thinking.
• Through the Solve for Tomorrow competition, educators can teach Problem-Based Learning (PBL) by challenging students to find solutions in their communities. 

The Viola Pfaff Bowman Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, supports high school students in Hamilton County, particularly those from Hamilton Heights, Noblesville, Sheridan, and Westfield High Schools. Candidates must be pursuing a degree in communications or business and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship honors Viola Pfaff Bowman, a dedicated alumna who inspired many through her involvement in school media. It encourages students with media program experience to apply.

The Mary L. Fenker Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated educator, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio, pursuing undergraduate degrees. Since 1995, the Erie County Community Foundation has prioritized community needs, offering this scholarship to enhance the quality of life in the region. Preference is given to African American students from Sandusky High School, with financial need considered. Renewable for up to three years, the scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals.

The Scott R. MacKenzie Foundation offers grants to support innovative genetic research aimed at advancing cures for diseases like cancer, diabetes, lung, and heart diseases. Only U.S.-based tax-exempt organizations with over five years of operation can apply. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration among research entities to enhance genome sequencing and disease detection. By funding these initiatives, they aim to foster awareness and progress in genetic research for future generations.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Irene Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Mrs. Irene Miller of Caroline County. Mrs. Miller began her career in public health nursing in 1940 and joined the Fredericksburg Department of Health in 1948. In 1954 she became nursing supervisor for the planning district and in 1968 she went on to serve as a Virginia Regional Supervisor covering 14 counties and 4 city service areas.

By establishing the Irene A. Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund in her will, Mrs. Miller wished to support the further education of a Caroline County student or students who wish to pursue a career in nursing. 

The Michael Hurewitz Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, supports high school seniors in the region who have a passion for journalism and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to empower students by providing them the necessary financial assistance to pursue their educational goals in journalism, fostering the next generation of storytellers and communicators in our community.

The Experiential Opportunities Career Development Award, funded by the Society of Toxicology, provides up to $1,000 to support underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postbaccalaureate researchers, in enhancing their education and career development in toxicology. Created in 2009, this initiative aims to promote diversity in the field. Four awards may be granted at each deadline, with funds supporting activities occurring by July 31 of the current fiscal year.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Jeremy Daniel Hawley Skilled Trades and Technical Education Fund

Humility and hard work -- this scholarship was established in memory of Jeremy Daniel Hawley, who personified these two ideas. A 2001 graduate of Fredericksburg Christian High School and resident of King George county, Jeremy was admired by friends and family, fellow students and teachers for his character and integrity, his community service and his strong commitment to Christian values.

Jeremy was not known for his academic success, but rather for his strong internal compass and his drive to be successful on his own terms. He completed a community college certificate program in heavy equipment operation and began working for a builder while taking business classes at night. In less than a year he had progressed to crew supervisor in his job, but in 2003 an automobile accident took his life before he could realize his dream of running his own excavation business.

This scholarship is intended to promote hard work, skilled trades and personal character in the name of Jeremy Hawley. 

The Graduate Education Fund offers the South Australia Defence, Space & Cyber Scholarship for scholars from the USA and South Australia. This scholarship supports PhD and Post-Doctoral research in Defence, Space, and Cyber Security, ensuring candidates have affiliations with educational institutions. Awarded funds, up to US $40,000, can cover tuition, travel, and living expenses. Applications are due in March for USA to Australia and September for Australia to USA, promoting collaboration in research between the two nations.

The Career Guidance for Trainees Grant, offered by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, aims to enhance the career development of early career administrators focused on PhD scientists. This grant supports a workshop that equips participants with research evaluation skills to create impactful career-focused interventions. Participants will receive a $15,000 grant to implement their projects, develop networks, and share findings at national meetings, fostering a diverse scientific workforce essential for research innovation and public service.

The Research Grants on Improving the Use of Research Evidence program aims to enhance the application of research findings for young people aged 5-25 in the U.S. It offers major grants ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000 over 2-4 years, focusing on impactful studies and capacity-building for researchers. The foundation encourages collaboration among scholars and practitioners to strengthen research practices and evidence use in various settings.