Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

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.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Dr. Tai Afrik Memorial Scholarship

• Graduating senior, graduating early college student, or current college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Holland High School, Holland Christian, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, Zeeland West, or the Careerline Tech Center
• Enrolling/enrolled at Grand Valley State University
• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM)
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater
• Student of color
• This scholarship is potentially renewable and supports one student at a time. 

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.

Douglas C. Iles Memorial Scholarship

The Douglas C. Iles Memorial Scholarship has been established by his wife, Sandy, and his children, Ryan, Jeffrey, and Kristen, with the hope of honoring Doug’s incredible legacy. Doug was a lifelong Saginaw resident and loved giving back to his community. Doug touched countless lives and his influence has reached not only those in Saginaw and the state of Michigan but many throughout the United States as well. 

Doug carried that same passion with him as he sought to foster and mentor the next generation of financial service professionals. He was actively involved as an adjunct professor at his alma mater, Central Michigan University, where he was also the chair of the Personal Financial Planning Program. Doug strongly valued education and was passionate about helping students achieve their educational goals. He was proud of his students and always showed up excited to pass on his knowledge and experience to scores of Chippewas at Central Michigan University (CMU). In honor of Doug’s love for helping others, both at CMU and the community at large, this scholarship has been developed to help foster the next generation of business students at CMU.  

Doug’s sudden and unexpected passing left a permanent void in the lives of those that he touched. It is the hope of his family that this memorial scholarship will help others to remember Doug’s zest for life and his innate ability to find the perfect way to quietly help others with his time, talents, and treasures. In this small way, Doug’s legacy will live on in the lives of students that share his passion for business as they further their education at CMU. 

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.

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.

Dr. Raquel Ontiveros Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Raquel Ontiveros’ life was cut short when she drowned after being caught in a rogue wave while on vacation in Mexico. During her lifetime, Raquel packed significant accomplishments and contributions to her community. These accomplishments included raising two sons, earning a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan and an M.A. from Saginaw Valley State University, serving as principal at Jerome Elementary in Saginaw and teaching in the Saginaw Public Schools for many years. As an educator and administrator, Raquel stressed the importance of individuality and creativity.

Raquel was committed also to community service. She was appointed to the Hispanic Advisory Committee to the State Legislature in the early 1980s and also served on the Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs for Michigan. Locally, she served on the boards of the Rape Crisis Center and Big Brothers/Big Sisters, among others.

Friends and family remember Raquel for her high energy, infectious enthusiasm and what one friend called her “90-kilowatt” smile. They established the Dr. Raquel Ontiveros Memorial Scholarship to help others attain their educational goals in Raquel’s memory.

Startup grants are seed money for newly forming volunteer monitoring groups that want to get involved in aquatic macro invertebrate and stream habitat monitoring in wadable streams using MiCorps protocols. MiCorps staff will provide training and support to the grantees. Grantees use the information provided by MiCorps to train their own volunteers who will conduct most of the data collection work. Grantees together with volunteers identify macro invertebrates, process the data and work to turn their data results into actions that improve and protect water quality and stream habitat.

The Michigan ACEP: Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) program, administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, offers year-round applications to restore and enhance wetlands. This initiative provides financial and technical assistance to landowners and Indian tribes for permanent and temporary easements. The program emphasizes ecological benefits, including improved water quality and habitat conservation, while ensuring compliance with income limitations. Priority is given to projects that enhance wildlife habitats, particularly for migratory birds.

The MI Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) - Floodplain Easement provides crucial financial and technical assistance to local communities for mitigating flood risks and soil erosion post-natural disasters. It empowers landowners to apply for floodplain easements, promoting restoration and protection of floodplains. This program is vital for areas frequently affected by flooding, ensuring that properties are safeguarded and natural resources are managed effectively. Assistance does not require prior disaster declarations, streamlining the recovery process.

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.

Frank Rios, Jr. Line Worker Scholarship

Before COVID-19 took Frank from us, he was a hard-working family man. Frank believed in mentoring the next generation. Whether that was inside the trade of linework, community or family, he was always turning back around to help the next in line. Whether it was around linework, safety, fishing, golfing or life Frank was willing to share his knowledge and passion with others. Frank was a hardworking leader of character that had a passion for linework and making his community better through mentoring the future generations. This scholarship will be awarded to an applicant who shares these same attributes and passions.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

The Makulinski Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit and charity organizations, emphasizing sustainable community development. With a commitment to lasting change, MFF actively matches investments to amplify their impact, ranging from 10:1 to 1:2 based on beneficiary needs. The foundation welcomes proposals from various regions, including Ohio, Michigan, and South Carolina, and encourages applications that align with their mission. Interested parties can access the grant request form to submit their proposals.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Karri B. and David E. Jasperse Scholarship

• Graduating senior from Holland Christian, Black River, West Ottawa, or Holland High School
• Enrolling in a bachelor's degree program in mathematics, science, or engineering at an accredited public post-secondary school within Michigan
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater

The National Cooperative Drug/Device Discovery/Development Groups (NCDDG) program invites applications to foster innovative research in treating mental disorders and substance use issues. This initiative promotes collaboration between academia and industry, supporting diverse, multidisciplinary projects aimed at developing rational therapies and neurostimulation techniques. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before the proposal deadline to enhance project alignment with funding goals.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

The Dr. Ralph and Marian Falk Medical Research Trust – Falk Catalyst Awards support high-risk, high-reward biomedical research with up to $350,000 in funding over one to two years. These awards aim to address critical scientific challenges and enable the translation of innovative research into clinical practices. Projects focus on identifying biological markers, therapeutic targets, and developing interventions to disrupt disease processes, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for patients.

The NCDDG program supports innovative research aiming to discover and develop new treatments for mental disorders, including substance use and alcohol use disorders. This initiative encourages collaborations between academic and industry partners to advance neurostimulation techniques and drug/device development. Applicants are invited to submit proposals that focus on specific projects utilizing the U01 mechanism, with a clear emphasis on rationally designed candidate agents and cutting-edge technologies. Letters of Intent are encouraged 30 days prior to the submission deadline.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

Paul and Deanna Virciglio Scholarship

Paul Virciglio, along with his wife, Deanna, has established the Paul & Deanna Virciglio Education Fund, which will be used to award scholarships to students pursuing graduate studies in math or science.

“I noted the dramatic structural changes taking place in the business world as we prepared for the new information society. There’s a demand for higher-skilled employees, which places an emphasis on education, especially in math and science,” said Paul Virciglio.

The BCCF Competitive Grants support programs and projects in the greater Battle Creek area with funding requests over $1,500. Focus areas include health, education, and community livability, encouraging proposals that enhance wellness, access to education, and community engagement. Eligible applicants are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or tax-exempt public entities. The grants aim to foster impactful community initiatives, reviewed by volunteer committees to ensure alignment with local needs.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

About Us

Making a Difference, Together

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Women Educators Endowed Fund

The Women Educators Scholarship Fund supports applicants pursuing a degree in the field of education with a completion of at least 48 undergraduate credit hours at an accredited Michigan college of education or an institution with a reciprocal agreement.

The BCCF Mini Grants provide funding up to $1,500 to support community-driven initiatives in Battle Creek. These grants aim to enhance health, education, and livable communities by addressing local needs effectively. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, allowing for quick responses to urgent community needs, ensuring that important projects can receive timely support to foster positive change.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Safety First Grant Program aims to enhance community safety across its 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, it supports organizations that provide safety services or promote safe behavior. This program reflects Norfolk Southern's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering employees to engage locally. By investing in safety and workforce development, Norfolk Southern fosters thriving communities, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility and community well-being.

The Mecosta County Community Foundation Grants support local organizations to enhance the community's quality of life. By awarding grants twice a year, they focus on vital areas such as arts, education, health, and social services. Their mission is to address community needs through permanent endowments, improving resources like playgrounds and food pantries. This collaborative effort fosters a thriving environment for residents of Mecosta County.

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).