Best Grants for Charities in Michigan

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

William B. and Bonnie Z. Swonger Nursing Scholarship

A Shelby County resident who is a graduate of any high school within Shelby County and is pursuing a Registered Nursing degree. 

Selection based upon:

• Financial need and academic ability.

Awards

• Four $1,250 scholarships available

The Brees Dream Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of cancer patients while providing essential care, education, and opportunities for children and families in need. With the support of generous donors and partners, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing cancer research and offering vital resources to those facing challenges. This commitment reflects a profound dedication to improving quality of life and fostering hope in communities.

The Dr. Curtis Jones Leadership Award Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, honors the legacy of Dr. Curtis Jones, a distinguished educator and former Superintendent. This scholarship aims to support a graduating senior from Bibb County Public Schools who exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. Awarded annually at $1,875, it is renewable for up to four years, encouraging students to achieve their academic goals while honoring Dr. Jones's commitment to education and community.

The MOORE Equity in Mental Health Community Grants Program, initiated by the American Psychiatric Association Foundation, aims to enhance mental health services for young people of color. With grants up to $10,000 over two years, it supports community organizations addressing mental health and substance use inequities. Eligible applicants include non-profits with a focus on culturally relevant care and sustainable solutions. The program fosters collaboration and awareness through innovative initiatives aimed at improving access to essential mental health services.

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

School Bus Road Scholarship Fund

The School Bus Road Scholarship Fund was established in 2023 by the Louisa County, VA Chapter of the NAACP. The purpose of the scholarship is to support postsecondary educational scholarships for qualifying graduates of Louisa County Public High School. and any future high schools built by Louisa County Public Schools in Louisa County, VA, attending an accredited two or four-year community college, techical or vocation school, college or university in the United States.

$20K for changemakers with transformative ideas & firsthand insight in early childhood

About the Imagine Award

The Imagine Award by the Promise Fund offers $20,000 in flexible funding (see definition in FAQs) and a six-month cohort-based learning experience for community-rooted early childhood leaders with ideas for transformative impact. ​​Award recipients are at the idea stage and will launch a pilot within six months, testing their solutions with real users, gathering feedback, and refining their approach.

Imagine Award recipients will learn strategies for designing and executing lightweight tests for rapid learning while gaining clarity on their idea's direction using impact and business models. They will craft a compelling story about their work to build future partnerships and run a focused pilot with strong feedback loops for gathering data, all while growing alongside a supportive peer community.

What We Provide

Our grant dollars are flexible and meant to be used at award recipients’ discretion for the pursuit of tests or a pilot of a transformative idea. Read the FAQ for more information.

Direct, one-on-one support from our team to help you learn, get tailored help, and make relevant connections.

Multi-day gathering for peer connection, learning, and pilot design.

Access to a bench of mentors to guide you as you transition out of the program and navigate next steps with your pilot.

Light, tailored coaching to support pilot preparation, launch, and implementation.

Ongoing peer community and resources to continue learning and collaboration

Community Diversity FellowshipThe Community Diversity Fellowship is a unique opportunity for psychiatry residents from diverse backgrounds and residents who are committed to serving minority and vulnerable populations. The fellowship provides professional development, training, mentorship, and a field placement component (up to 15 hours per month) designed to add exponential impact in the delivery of culturally competent psychiatric care across hard to reach and traditionally underrepresented communities. These populations include—but are not limited to—American Indians/Native Alaskans, Asian Americans/Native Hawaiians/Native Pacific Islanders, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, LGBTQ, and religious minorities.Program Benefits:

• Attend one APA Annual Meeting
• Attend one Fellowship Forum
• Develop leadership skills in the field of psychiatry and advance understanding of the life experiences of racial ethnic minority communities
• Gain hands on experience through field placement in a traditional underrepresented community mental health setting (up to 15 hours per month)
• Gain an understanding of APA/APAF Governance through service on an APA Council, Committee, or APAF initiative 
• Cultivate a professional network with psychiatrists interested in minority mental health and services through exclusive events through engagements with APA leaders.
  • Establish relationships and peer-mentorship with a diverse group of resident fellows with similar career interests and goals

The Retirement Research Foundation (RRF) offers Professional Education & Training Grants aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals serving older adults (60+). The foundation focuses on projects with significant national or regional impact, particularly those addressing the needs of historically marginalized groups, including people of color and LGBTQ individuals. RRF seeks to foster a well-trained workforce capable of meeting the increasing demands of an aging population, thereby improving the quality of life for older Americans.

About Us

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Our Promise

To help you help others through the most effective philanthropy possible.

Juanita Muller Scholarship

Juanita Muller was widowed in 1949. She reared two sons, Joe, then 14 and Charles, 10, working six days a week in a dress factory. Charles, the provider of this scholarship, was the first in his family to receive a college education, thanks to the Woodward Trustees Foundation in Cincinnati. It provided financial aid in high school and a scholarship to the University of Cincinnati. May the recipients of the scholarship fully appreciate the effort of their single parent and have an impact on the lives of those they touch.

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

J. Martin Diggs Memorial Scholarship

• 2 yr., 4yr., Community College, College or University (U.S.)

The Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative offers Classroom Resources Grants aimed at enhancing theatre education in under-resourced public schools. Funded by a $1.3 million grant from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, the initiative provides essential resources, scholarships, and grants to foster artistic growth. By supporting diverse students and schools, this program opens pathways to careers in theatre, ensuring all young people have access to quality arts education, thereby enriching the cultural landscape of America.

About

Community Foundation of Greenville bridges philanthropy and purpose in Greenville County, helping people make their charitable giving simpler and more powerful for 70 years. We strategically match diverse needs and opportunities in Greenville County with philanthropic resources.

Vision:

Community Foundation of Greenville will be the leading catalyst for developing assets and unlocking potential to meet the needs of an inclusive and equitable community.

Mission:

Community Foundation of Greenville improves the lives of Greenville County residents through strategic philanthropy, community investment, and collaborative leadership.

Obermier Scholarship Fund in Memory of John N. Obermier, Edith M. Obermier and Mary Belle Obermier

Purpose

Mary Belle Obermier established this scholarship with a gift from her estate in 2012. Her intent was to help academically deserving students who need financial assistance to be able to attend college and to give preference to qualified students who are committed to a career in the United States Navy. The preference for naval students is in recognition of the US Navy careers of her deceased husband, John, and his deceased first wife, Edith, who were both veterans of World War II.

Criteria:

• Applicants must demonstrate financial need (economically disadvantaged).
• Applicants must have a current academic GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Applicants must be enrolled/accepted to an institution of higher learning prior to applying.
• Applicants must submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher, employer, or clergy.

Preference in the selection process will be given in the following order to qualified students who are:

students who are committed to a career in the United States Navy

residents of Greer, SC

residents of South Carolina and

residents of all other states

The AMA Foundation Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship: Alliance Grassroots provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. With a commitment to supporting diversity in medicine, this scholarship focuses on candidates interested in women's and children's health issues. Open to all medical students, it recognizes volunteerism and research in health-related fields. Since 1950, the AMA Foundation has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, fostering a diverse cohort of future healthcare professionals.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Lewis G. and Margaret R. Curtis Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Lewis and Margaret, who established the Lewis G. and Margaret R. Curtis Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Margaret Curtis wished to establish two scholarships; one for females pursuing careers in nursing or health care careers and the other for a male pursuing a vocational, technical or trade career scholarship. Mrs. Curtis, a nurse in the area, provided for this fund in her will in memory of her husband and herself. She stated that the income be used to award scholarships in two fields, nursing and vocational training.

The Jonathan Larson Grants provide essential support to emerging musical theatre artists, helping composers, lyricists, and librettists further their creative endeavors. Established in memory of Jonathan Larson, creator of the iconic musical "Rent," these grants empower artists to create impactful work that resonates with contemporary culture. The program, sustained by the American Theatre Wing and the Larson Family, encourages professional growth and artistic exploration without the limitations of specific projects.

We administer a number of scholarships, which range from the traditional academic and athletic awards to corporate and special circumstances offerings. These scholarships are open to all residents of Marshall County, as long as other requirements are met.

Applying for a scholarship is free, so we invite you to spend some time finding opportunities for which you are a good fit.

Marohn Family Fund

The purpose of the fund is to provide annual scholarships to students from schools (Plymouth High School, Triton High School, Culver High School, Bremen High School and Argos High School) within Marshall County Indiana.  

The scholarships will be used to help fulfill educational needs in the vocational trade, and technical career areas.

The Mary Agnes Powers Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, supports nursing students from several Pennsylvania counties. This scholarship honors Mary Agnes Powers and is awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and enrollment in nursing programs. Eligible candidates must reside in designated counties, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be entering their final year of nursing education. The scholarship aims to empower local students in their pursuit of nursing careers.

The Paul J. Baum Fund Scholarship, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports college and graduate students pursuing degrees in Music. As one of the oldest community foundations in the U.S., The Pittsburgh Foundation has been dedicated to improving quality of life since 1945. This scholarship opportunity is available to both undergraduate and graduate students who meet eligibility criteria, including a minimum GPA of 2.5 and participation in music programs.

The Abortion Bridge Collaborative Funds, initiated by the Women Donors Network, aim to enhance abortion access across the U.S. in response to the 2022 Dobbs decision. The fund prioritizes support for 501c3 organizations committed to reproductive justice, focusing on immediate community needs and sustainable solutions. Emphasizing grassroots leadership and innovative approaches, the fund seeks to build a robust infrastructure for reproductive care, ensuring equitable access for all individuals in need.

The B-Fund Grant by the Brem Foundation aims to enhance early detection of breast cancer by funding crucial screening and diagnostic tests for women in need. This initiative supports entities in the DC metro area, providing financial assistance for services like mammograms and ultrasounds, while ensuring equitable access regardless of socio-economic status. However, it excludes costs related to post-diagnosis care, employee salaries, and administrative expenses, promoting targeted and effective use of funds in the fight against breast cancer.

The National Scleroderma Foundation's New Investigator Grant aims to support emerging researchers dedicated to scleroderma studies. This three-year grant, totaling $200,000, encourages applicants with doctoral degrees and postdoctoral experience. Eligible candidates are invited to submit proposals that may lead to further research funding. The grant emphasizes innovative research approaches while providing essential financial support for early-career investigators. Note that the grant does not cover certain costs, ensuring focused investment in research advancement.

The OAR Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals by funding community-led projects that address physical health and support services. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 are available for initiatives designed to produce practical tools and resources. Eligible applicants include family members, autistic individuals, and community organizations committed to improving the lives of those affected by autism. Projects should be innovative, publicly accessible, and focus on priority topics such as health systems and community services.

Ethan J. Hazelwood Heart of Gold Memorial Scholarship

The Ethan J. Hazelwood Heart of Gold Memorial Scholarship was established in 2025 by family and friends of Ethan as a lasting tribute to his life and giving spirit.

Those who knew Ethan remember him as a kind, creative, and giving person. He was always helping others and once gave the boots on his feet to a fellow student who had none.

Open to individuals in Whitley and Noble County, the scholarship is for high school seniors as well as non-traditional students, who wish to pursue additional education in the field of agriculture or diesel mechanics.

The Andee Jorgensen Scholarship, managed by the Renton Regional Community Foundation, supports students from King County demonstrating financial need and resilience against personal hardships. With an award of $1,000, this scholarship honors civic leader Andee Jorgensen and is available for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. Preference is given to those engaged in community service. The foundation aims to foster education and empower local youth to pursue their academic ambitions while overcoming challenges.

The Parkinson Association of the Rockies Eric Wright Memorial Fund honors Eric Wright's legacy by providing scholarships to high school seniors and college students affected by Parkinson Disease. Recipients, eligible for up to $20,000 over four years, are selected based on merit and financial need. This fund aims to inspire the next generation while supporting students who have experienced loss or hardship due to this condition, promoting education and resilience within the community.

The ADDF-Harrington Scholar Program aims to transform academic discoveries into effective treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. With funding of up to $600,000 annually, this program prioritizes innovative drug targets and supports research from hit-to-lead optimization to IND-enabling studies. Eligible applicants include academic investigators with a strong potential to advance meaningful therapeutics. The program emphasizes collaboration with industry experts, making it a significant opportunity for advancing dementia research.

The AISES Sports and Technology Scholarship aims to empower Indigenous students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Sponsored by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, this scholarship supports American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and First Nations students, ensuring they have the financial resources needed to excel. Eligible applicants must be full-time students in accredited programs and demonstrate tribal affiliation, contributing to a diverse future in technology and science.