Best Grants for BIPOC in Michigan

Thomas J. and Barbara J. Weadock Scholarship

Oftentimes, stress and strain can be experienced by individuals when facing the high cost of higher education. In order to help provide assistance to highly-motivated students seeking post-secondary education, Tom and Barbara Weadock have established the Thomas J. and Barbara J. Weadock Scholarship. This scholarship will support students attending Michigan State University or Saginaw Valley State University. The Thomas J. and Barbara J. Weadock scholarship is especially interested in assisting students that are likely to return to the Great Lakes Bay Region following graduation to work and live.

Tom and Barbara are grateful and proud of the services that Saginaw Community Foundation performs on behalf of the citizens of this area and have full confidence that the Foundation will continue to administer our scholarship as directed.

The African-American Community Foundation - Major John F. Harris, Jr., Memorial Scholarship aims to support JROTC graduates from Dayton Public Schools in pursuing higher education. Established by The Dayton Foundation, it honors Major John Harris, Jr., a dedicated instructor who inspired students to achieve independence. Eligible applicants must demonstrate leadership and be accepted into accredited educational institutions. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and empowering youth in the Greater Dayton area.

The African-American Community Foundation - Wahid Abdullah Memorial Scholarship, established in 1997 by Jim Bucher, honors the memory of Wahid Abdullah, a promising young scholar whose life was tragically cut short. This scholarship aims to support Montgomery County students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic partner in the region, manages this scholarship as part of its mission to promote equitable opportunities and strengthen the community through education and charitable initiatives.

The Fanny Vought Fink Memorial Scholarship, established by Louise Van Vliet in 2007, supports single mothers pursuing education at accredited institutions. Funded by The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic organization in Greater Dayton, Ohio, this scholarship aims to empower women by easing financial burdens associated with higher education. With a focus on promoting equitable opportunities, it is a vital resource for those seeking to improve their lives through education.

The Henny Penny Leadership Award, provided by The Dayton Foundation, recognizes graduating seniors from Preble County, Ohio, or children of Henny Penny employees who exhibit exceptional leadership abilities. This award encourages students to pursue their educational goals at two- or four-year institutions while fostering their entrepreneurial spirit. The Dayton Foundation, a long-standing philanthropic partner, aims to enhance community welfare through strategic grantmaking and support for various initiatives in education, health, arts, and more.

The Herbert Scott Memorial Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2016, supports graduating African-American seniors from Dayton Public Schools who are in foster care or have aged out. This scholarship aims to provide educational opportunities by funding students accepted into accredited technical schools, community colleges, or universities. The Dayton Foundation, a prominent philanthropic partner in Greater Dayton, is dedicated to enhancing the community's social and economic fabric through strategic grantmaking and support for equitable opportunities.

The Jean Penny Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2022, aims to assist students from the Miami Valley in completing their college degrees. This scholarship honors Jean Penny, a Miami University graduate and co-founder of Penny and Penny Advertising, known for her love of education and generous spirit. The foundation, committed to strengthening local communities through philanthropy, emphasizes support for education, workforce development, and equitable opportunities.

The Ken Broo Memorial Scholarship, offered by The Dayton Foundation, recognizes exemplary graduating seniors who are accepted into a two- or four-year institution and plan to major in business or accounting. This scholarship aims to honor Ken Broo's legacy of hard work and mentorship, encouraging students to demonstrate their commitment through community service and volunteerism. The Dayton Foundation, established in 1921, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Greater Dayton, Ohio.

The Alexander-Bickley Scholarship, established in 2016, supports female graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools pursuing STEM degrees at accredited colleges. Inspired by Manuel Bickley's entrepreneurial spirit, this scholarship aims to empower recipients to achieve academic excellence and pursue their aspirations. Preference is given to applicants who have participated in band, emphasizing the importance of creativity alongside academic goals. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and honoring the legacy of the Bickley family.

Our Littlest Angels – Callie M. Wilson Memorial Scholarship

The “Our Littlest Angels – Callie M. Wilson Memorial Scholarship” was established in 2011 to assist students interested in the field of Nursing.

Callie Wilson was born on December 20, 1981 and was a patient in the Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (RNICU) at Covenant HealthCare in Saginaw. After 46 days of wonderful care, Callie passed away. Her parents, Byron and Mickey Wilson, along with several of their friends started the Our Littlest Angels Fund in 1982. The fund has raised $1.3 million through its golf tournament and bowl-a-thons for the purchase of specialized equipment for the RNICU.

Covenant HealthCare’s RNICU is truly a live saving service for distressed infants throughout the East-Central Region of Michigan. Several thousands of critically ill newborns have been cared for in this unit since its inception.

The golf tournament and bowling event have now been retired and the remaining funds are being used to establish this scholarship to honor all those associated with the RNICU in Callie’s memory. This scholarship will be awarded to students wishing to enter education in nursing. They must demonstrate strong leadership skills and a passion for infants and nursing.

The SMART Scholarship Program, managed by Scholarship America, provides substantial support to STEM students, offering full tuition, stipends between $30,000 and $46,000, and summer internships at DoD facilities. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers for high school seniors and current college students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With applications opening annually on August 1, the program fosters a strong community of scholars dedicated to innovation and research in STEM fields.

The TPC Group Mark of Excellence Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America Inc, supports the children of full-time employees pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers and promote educational access for students aged 24 and under. The program encourages academic achievement and assists those planning to enroll in accredited colleges or vocational schools, ensuring that eligible applicants receive the necessary support to realize their educational aspirations.

The Wellroot Family Services Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America Inc., supports students in financial need who exhibit academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current undergraduates with a minimum GPA of 2.0, planning to enroll full-time in accredited institutions. The program emphasizes holistic evaluation, considering academic performance, community involvement, and personal challenges overcome, ensuring that deserving candidates receive the support they need to succeed.

The New Britain-Berlin Rotary Club Scholarships, managed by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, support graduating seniors from local high schools, including technical schools. Priority is given to INTERACT Club members who demonstrate leadership and community service. This initiative aims to encourage youth to actively engage in their communities and make a positive impact through volunteerism. The scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational attainment and community development.

The FY26 Autism Research Program Career Development Award aims to support early-career investigators in conducting innovative research that can significantly impact autism. It encourages applications addressing specific areas of interest and mandates community collaboration for projects involving pilot clinical trials. Proposals must include partnerships with community members for effective planning and implementation, ensuring that the research is grounded in the needs of the autism community.

The FY26 Autism Research Program's Idea Development Award from the US DOD aims to support groundbreaking research that improves outcomes for Autistic individuals. This award encourages innovative, high-risk projects that can lead to significant advancements in autism research. Applications must address specific areas of interest or justify the importance of the research problem. A unique Partnering Principal Investigator option allows two researchers to collaborate on a single project, enhancing the potential for impactful discoveries.

The FY26 Autism Research Program Clinical Trial Award aims to rapidly implement clinical trials that significantly impact autism treatment and management. Projects may range from small proof-of-concept trials to large-scale studies assessing efficacy in relevant populations. Applications are encouraged to partner experienced and early-career investigators and must include community collaborations to enhance research impact. At least one community partner is required to provide ongoing consultation throughout the project.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is preparing to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at advancing research on the genomic factors influencing Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias (AD/ADRD). This initiative encourages interdisciplinary projects that utilize innovative genomic analysis techniques to uncover the mechanisms of neurodegeneration. The goal is to identify therapeutic targets that can inform precision medicine strategies for AD/ADRD treatment, while allowing time for potential applicants to form collaborations.

The Nels Andersen Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors a pioneer in early childhood education. This scholarship supports Saginaw County residents pursuing undergraduate studies in early childhood development, elementary education, or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training, with awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and can be high school seniors or current college students. Preference is given to full-time students and former participants of Saginaw County Head Start programs.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is set to announce a funding opportunity for research on the cerebellum's role in cognitive and emotional functions during aging and Alzheimer's disease. This initiative emphasizes the need for studies that enhance understanding of cerebellar physiology and neuroanatomy in these contexts, welcoming diverse research approaches. Researchers are encouraged to prepare for this new opportunity to investigate potential interventions aimed at cognitive preservation and delaying Alzheimer's onset.

The American Business Women’s Association – Saginaw Charter Chapter Scholarship supports women pursuing higher education, fostering personal and professional growth. Established in 1954, this scholarship encourages female students in Saginaw County to achieve their academic goals, particularly those enrolled in career and technical education programs. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it aims to empower women in various fields by providing financial assistance, ensuring that the next generation of businesswomen can thrive and contribute to their communities.

The Alpha Sigma Chapter, Alpha Delta Kappa, Inc. Scholarship supports aspiring educators in Saginaw County. Established in 2018, it honors the legacy of women educators dedicated to improving educational excellence. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be full-time students pursuing an undergraduate degree in education, and demonstrate residency in Saginaw County. The scholarship amount ranges from $500 to $4,000, with preference given to previous recipients. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of educators.

The Mabel M. Witmer Scholarship Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports students pursuing education in trade or technical schools. This fund aims to assist residents of Cumberland or Franklin County with financial need, especially those who have relevant work experience in their chosen field. By investing in education and skills development, the scholarship contributes to community empowerment and long-term economic growth in South Central Pennsylvania.

The SOT Undergraduate Research Award supports outstanding undergraduate students presenting original toxicology research at the SOT Annual Meeting. Awardees receive recognition, complimentary registration, lodging, and travel funding up to $800. This award encourages students to pursue graduate studies in toxicology or related fields and includes mentorship opportunities during the meeting, fostering their academic and professional growth.

The Climate Smart Communities Initiative (CSCI) Grant supports US-based projects aimed at enhancing community resilience against climate change. With a budget of $1.5-2 million, grants typically range from $75,000 to $115,000. CSCI prioritizes projects that focus on historically disinvested populations facing climate vulnerabilities, emphasizing equity, nature-based solutions, and community capacity building. The initiative encourages collaboration between climate adaptation practitioners and local government entities to address climate impacts effectively.

The Updated National Dislocated Worker Grant Program Guidance addresses the opioid crisis by prioritizing funding for applicants who demonstrate a critical need and have not previously received opioid-related grants. Key updates include eliminating Disaster-Relief Employment as a requirement, emphasizing the inadequacy of workforce resources, and encouraging applications that focus on training qualified professionals in relevant fields. These changes ensure that the program aligns with current policies and effectively supports communities impacted by the opioid epidemic.

The FY26 Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program Clinical Trial Award promotes the swift initiation of impactful clinical trials for diseases outlined in specific topic areas. It offers two application categories: Clinical Trial Only and Clinical Trial with Planning Phase, supporting various funding levels based on trial phases and participant counts. The total funding of approximately $94.5M aims to support up to 9 applications, with a maximum award period of 4 years, ensuring significant advancements in medical research.