Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The African-American Community Foundation - Paul R. and Frieda M. Miller Memorial Scholarship, managed by The Dayton Foundation, offers financial support to African-American high school seniors in Montgomery County planning to attend historically Black colleges. This scholarship honors the legacy of educators Paul R. and Frieda M. Miller, aiming to promote educational success. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need, with preference for those majoring in education.

The African-American Community Foundation - Charles and Pat Meadows Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation, supports underrepresented students from Dayton Public, Jefferson Township, or Trotwood Public Schools. This scholarship aims to honor Charles Meadows' belief in education as a pathway to success. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA, accepted to an accredited college, demonstrate financial need, and show participation in extracurricular activities. It fosters educational opportunities for deserving students.

The Adam Broock Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation, honors the memory of Adam Broock, a compassionate Oakwood High School graduate. This scholarship supports college students from Montgomery County, Ohio, who demonstrate financial need and academic success. The Dayton Foundation, founded in 1921, is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through philanthropic services and strategic grantmaking, focusing on workforce development and equitable opportunities.

The Dunkirk Community Funds: Ella & Irene Cunningham Scholarship, established in 1995, provides financial support to students residing within Dunkirk, IN, particularly those pursuing higher education in business or education. Preference is given to female applicants. The fund transitioned to The Portland Foundation in 2023, following the merger with The Dunkirk Foundation, continuing its mission to empower local students through educational opportunities and promote community growth.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation supports certified 501c3 non-profit organizations, focusing on youth and community enrichment in West Michigan. Founded in 2012, it has a significant annual impact and aims to provide access to educational and recreational programs. Donation requests must be submitted at least four weeks prior to the event. Events benefiting individuals or families are not eligible, ensuring a broader community impact. Prioritization is given to local organizations and those benefiting youth.

The Dunkirk Community Funds: Dr. H. L. Shroyer Christian Love Scholarship, established in 1970, provides scholarships to high school graduates from Jay County and nearby areas who exemplify Christ’s love in their daily lives. The scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate strong moral character and faith through an essay on the significance of Christ’s love. This fund was transferred to the Portland Foundation in 2023, enhancing its mission to foster community growth and opportunity.

The Amazing Grace Sulak Scholarship, established in 2017 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors Grace Sulak and aims to support high school seniors from Bluffton, May River, or Hilton Head Island High Schools. To be eligible, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate involvement in athletics and community service. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to empowering local youth through educational opportunities.

The Pride in the Hills Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, offers a one-time award to graduating high school students who identify as LGBTQ+ or as allies of the LGBTQ+ community. This initiative, part of the Foundation's commitment to support local students, reflects over a century of dedication to enhancing educational opportunities in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region. With generous donor support, this scholarship aims to help students achieve their college dreams.

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.

Mildred Culbert Kelly & Fred W. Kelly Non-Traditional Student Scholarship

Mildred Culbert Kelly and Fred W. Kelly never had children, but they were generous with contributions of time and talent to church and community groups that focused on youngsters.

Prior to his death in 1989, Mr. Kelly had been employed as an insurance agent and later purchased the Wheeler Insurance Agency which he owned and operated until his retirement in 1977. He was a founding member and past president of the Optimist Club and he assisted in establishing Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Saginaw and the READ Saginaw program.

Mrs. Kelly retired from the Accounting Department at Chevrolet Saginaw Grey Iron Foundry after 39 years of service. She volunteered at First United Methodist Church as director of the Children’s Choir, the Interpretive Choir and the Sacred Dance Group for many years. She was also a volunteer at READ Saginaw and Delta College Channel 19 and was a past president of the Opti-Mrs. Club. She died in 2000 at the age of 94.

Mildred Culbert Kelly and Fred W. Kelly’s legacy continues to assist youth with scholarships for students who might not otherwise obtain a college or Career and Technical Education (CTE) degree/certificate.

The Pharmacy Leadership Scholars program, offered by the ASHP Research and Education Foundation, is a competitive grant initiative aimed at early-stage pharmacist researchers focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in healthcare. With funding of up to five $10,000 grants, this program fosters collaboration and leadership development among grantees. It encourages innovative research addressing DEI gaps, aiming to empower pharmacists to enhance healthcare access and quality for diverse populations. This initiative is pivotal for shaping future leaders in pharmacy.

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.

Medical Scholarship

At a very early age in Alabama, Lee Essie Smith was a self-taught musician. After losing her mother as a young teenager, she began putting her God-given musical talent to work as a pianist for several churches. By the time she graduated from high school, she had learned the cosmetology trade and met Charlie McMillan, Jr.

After his wife’s death, Mr. McMillan continued his community service with the Democratic Party, Habitat for Humanity and Mt. Olive Baptist Church as an usher. Although he did not serve very long in the military, Mr. McMillan continues to exemplify the values and physical energy of the “Army Strong” slogan. He is the patriarch of the family – always dapper – and a regular attendee at church services.

The H. D. Segur and Friends Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, provides a one-time award for graduating high school students entering college. As one of the largest scholarship providers in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region, this initiative aims to support students in achieving their educational dreams. With a rich history dating back to 1923, the Foundation is dedicated to addressing community issues and fostering equitable outcomes for local residents.

Glass, Paul Memorial Scholarship Fund

A one-time payment for a high school senior or undergraduate college student from Noble County who is pursuing a career in agriculture related field. Awards $750 one time. Students can reapply. 

Amount

$750

Awards Per Year:

1 scholarship

Colleges:

Any accredited college or university

Areas of Study:

Agriculture

Ellenbecker, Oliver and Eleanor Scholarship Bachelor’s Program Fund

For Noble County High School seniors (one awarded to a Central Noble High School senior, one awarded to an East Noble High School senior, one awarded to Oak Farm Montessori School senior, one awarded to a West Noble High School senior) who will be attending a four-year college or university as a full-time student. Awards $3,500 one-time.

Awards Per Year:

1 scholarship

Areas of Study:

Any

The Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN) at the NIH aims to advance small molecule drug discovery and development. This program supports investigators in their own labs while offering access to NIH experts and contract research organizations. By combining NIH resources with industry expertise, BPN reduces risks in drug development, enabling partners to undertake late-stage projects. Focused on small molecules, it uses a cooperative agreement mechanism to support innovative, higher-risk projects, fostering essential collaborations for successful therapeutic advancements.

Noble County Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Noble County Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 2007 by the board of directors of the Community Foundation of Noble County for the purpose of allowing Noble County residents the opportunity to memorialize a friend, family, or loved one without creating a named endowment fund where the minimum is much larger than the $1,000 minimum for this fund.

Awards Per Year:

3 scholarships

Degrees/Programs:

Certificate, Vocational, Associates degree (2-year), Bachelor’s degree (4-year)

Areas of Study:

Any

The ASTR Po-Hsien Chu International Scholar Award Fund aims to support international scholars facing unique challenges in the U.S. due to their visa status. This initiative offers annual research awards to up to two scholars, with a focus on at least one Asian recipient. The $1000 honorarium promotes access to funding for groundbreaking research in theatre and performance studies and encourages recipients to engage with the ASTR community through conferences and mentoring.

The Packaging Innovation Program by the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) seeks innovative research proposals to develop sustainable packaging alternatives for U.S. specialty crops. With increasing restrictions on single-use plastics, this initiative aims to enhance global market access for U.S. producers. Collaborating with Clemson University and the Foundation for Fresh Produce, the program supports three research tracks, focusing on applied R&D, technology acceleration, and pilot-scale manufacturing projects to advance eco-friendly packaging solutions.

The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants to K-5 teachers in public and nonprofit private schools, funding innovative projects in math and science education. Designed to support teachers in implementing hands-on learning experiences, these grants encourage creativity and community involvement. Applicants can propose projects that enhance student engagement and foster scientific inquiry. The foundation prioritizes teacher-led initiatives, making it a valuable resource for educators aiming to enrich their classrooms and inspire young learners.

The Stanley and Claudie Wilson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports deserving students from Taylor County and surrounding areas who aim to pursue higher education, particularly in legal or literary fields. Applicants must be graduates in the top 20% of their class or possess a minimum 3.0 GPA. Scholarships range from $500 to over $5,000, with awards sent directly to educational institutions for fall and spring semesters.

The Todd Moore Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors a passionate golfer and student. This scholarship supports high school seniors from select schools who have played varsity golf. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments made directly to educational institutions. Todd's legacy lives on through this scholarship, reflecting his love for golf and education. Eligible students must demonstrate academic commitment and athletic participation in golf during high school.

The WesTex Drilling Co – Robt. B. Cockrell Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating seniors from select Abilene high schools. Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA and plan to pursue careers in engineering, science, or math. Scholarships range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments directed to educational institutions in August and January. This fund is part of a larger initiative to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the CDM Smith Thomas R. Camp Scholarship, offers a $10,000 award for outstanding graduate students engaged in applied research within the drinking water sector. Sponsored by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), this scholarship emphasizes the importance of investing in future water industry leaders, encouraging their innovative contributions to the field. Eligible candidates are graduate students focused on research that addresses critical challenges in drinking water management.

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.

Saginaw Choral Society – Joanne Robertson Memorial Scholarship

Joanne Robertson, a lifelong resident of Saginaw, devoted much of her life to community service. Her 30 years of professional work was with the Buena Vista School District, where she was a speech and language pathologist helping young people with their communication skills.

Joanne was an enthusiastic supporter of the performing arts. Her interest in music was both as a patron and as a performer. She sang with the Saginaw Choral Society for 14 years. She served as their librarian, vice president of marketing and vice president of membership. The Joanne Robertson Memorial Scholarship was created to perpetuate the memory of her devotion to helping others and her love of music.

The Second Chances Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports non-traditional students seeking to complete their degrees. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, this scholarship aims to make education accessible for those returning to school. Payments are made directly to institutions in August and January, ensuring that funds are available when needed. This initiative honors Kay Billings, who dedicated her life to education and fostering student success.

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.

Nexteer Scholarship

The Nexteer Scholarship Fund mission is to help high school graduates in financial need through a scholarship program for residents of Saginaw, Midland and Bay Counties who are pursuing a career in engineering or general business. The goal is to help deserving individuals within our community achieve their career goals – an objective which has the added benefit of improving the community-at-large. 

Nexteer draws upon a 100 year heritage of vehicle integration expertise and product workmanship. The company has a strong foundation and a reputation for providing dependable steering solutions and enduring customer relationships.

The Ruth Hatcher and Joe Williamson Music Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial support for McMurry junior or senior students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music or a Bachelor of Music Education. This scholarship, honoring the legacy of Ruth Williamson's parents, is part of a broader initiative that supports various students with awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, ensuring accessibility to music education.