Best Grants for Minorities in Michigan

The Bob Zylstra STEM Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who identify as female or as students of color from West Michigan. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing STEM majors by removing barriers to education and fostering diversity in these fields. Each year, the foundation awards scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to help students achieve their academic and career aspirations.

The Health Career Connection Internship, offered by John Muir Health, is a 10-week full-time program aimed at empowering underrepresented college students in healthcare. This internship provides valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and real-world experience, focusing on diverse backgrounds. It encourages participants to explore careers in health professions, particularly those from low-income and first-generation college student backgrounds. The program is designed to inspire and motivate interns as they embark on their professional journeys.

The Toward An Inclusive Architecture Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to empower Tennesseans of color by providing financial support for architectural education. This initiative not only covers educational expenses at accredited architecture schools but also enhances professional growth through internship placements at partner firms. By fostering diversity in architecture, the scholarship seeks to create a more inclusive and thriving community in Tennessee.

The CareQuest Emergent & Relief Fund aims to address the unique challenges faced by historically underserved communities in the healthcare system, particularly in oral health. This fund supports innovative approaches, urgent clinical responses, and immediate relief efforts for community crises. Grants are targeted at organizations demonstrating commitment to equity in health services, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need. With a focus on transformative change, this initiative seeks to enhance access and improve health outcomes across diverse populations.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Lightbown Family Scholarship Fund

The Lightbown Family Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for students from Allegheny County pursuing a career in education. Corinne Elsie Lightbown passed away peacefully on Jan. 7, 2017 at the age of 86 having lived a full and rewarding life. Connie, as she was known to friends, loved life, people, friends and family as well as traveling and discussing movies, political issues and literature. She was an English teacher for 34 years with the Mt. Lebanon High School and taught in London, England, and Japan. A firm believer in the value of a good education, she established this scholarship fund in her name to support students in their academic studies. She never married so had no children of her own, yet her many students became a part of her extended family through the years. Many remained in touch with her and considered her as a mentor and friend. It was her wish that this scholarship would continue beyond her life in this same spirit.

• Award varies
• Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

Excellence in Medicine Awards

The AMA Foundation’s Excellence in Medicine Awards honor physicians and medical advocates who exemplify the highest values of the profession—volunteerism, community engagement, leadership, and service to underserved populations. Each recipient is recognized at a ceremony during the AMA Annual Meeting in Chicago and receives a $2,500 grant honorarium directed to a nonprofit health organization of their choice. Since 2005, more than 100 honorees have been celebrated through this program, with over $250,000 awarded to strengthen community health and advance equitable care nationwide. 

Excellence in Medicine Awards- Pride in the Profession Award

Honors physicians who aid underserved populations in the U.S.

About Us

The Youth Climate Justice Fund aims to support climate justice young leaders with trust-based funding, resources, and capacity strengthening, enabling them to amplify their voices and to keep their vision and influence alive.

Collectively, we have the power to ignite meaningful change and build equitable and sustainable futures. Despite the challenges posed by the current crisis, youth climate justice organizers remain determined to address current issues and explore new approaches.

Mission & Purpose

We work to strengthen existing organizing efforts and support emerging youth-led initiatives with a focus on bridging funders and organizers to enable flexible and impactful support. Through capacity strengthening and resource sharing, we empower and support young people to drive change and build a just and sustainable future.

How To Apply

The Youth Climate Justice Fund provides funding to emerging youth-led climate justice and socio-environmental groups through a participatory decision-making process.

LSC’s Basic Field Grants aim to enhance access to civil legal services for low-income individuals across the U.S. and territories. These grants support eligible organizations for up to three years through a competitive application process. The funding is allocated to specific service areas, which change annually, and focuses on providing comprehensive legal assistance. The program includes three types of service areas, ensuring diverse populations, including agricultural and Native American communities, receive necessary legal support.

The Grant for Grassroots Exchange: U.S.-Japan Community Networking supports initiatives that foster connections between grassroots communities in the U.S. and Japan. With funding up to $10,000, projects should enhance mutual understanding through events like workshops and conferences. Eligibility is limited to U.S. organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and priority is given to collaborations with underrepresented groups. This grant aims to strengthen community ties and promote cultural exchange on a local level.

The Wayfinders: Launching Spiritual Activists Grant Program, initiated by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), empowers college students to pursue anti-racism and anti-poverty initiatives on their campuses. This innovative program connects participants with mentorship and financial resources to develop justice and spirituality projects. With support from the 1001 New Worshiping Communities initiative, students will receive coaching and guidance throughout the academic year, culminating in a retreat to share experiences and insights.

The Risk and Protective Factors of Family Health initiative invites research proposals to explore family health and resilience, addressing health disparities in minority communities. Key submission deadlines are set for various dates from February 2025 to February 2027. This program is supported by the National Institutes of Health, highlighting the importance of family well-being as a critical area for advancing health equity. Proposals should focus on interventions that improve family health outcomes.

The Judith Heavenrich Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of Judith Heavenrich, aims to support single, low-income mothers in Saginaw County as they pursue higher education or vocational training. Judith, a lifelong advocate for education and environmental issues, faced numerous challenges in her life but remained dedicated to her community. This scholarship reflects her spirit and commitment to empowering women to achieve their educational goals, with awards typically ranging from $500 to $4,000.

The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.

The Spotlight Fund Grants aim to enhance racial equity in K-12 education by providing flexible funding to BIPOC educators. With grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, these funds are essential for sourcing tools and materials that support diverse student needs. As schools face budget cuts exacerbated by COVID-19, this initiative focuses on proven strategies that foster an inclusive learning environment for students of color, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive.

The Department of Defense Research and Education Program aims to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions by enhancing defense-related research and educational capabilities. This initiative encourages collaboration with other educational institutions and government organizations to increase STEM graduates and strengthen national defense. Eligible applicants include accredited minority institutions and community colleges. The program is open until July 31, 2029, providing a significant opportunity for institutions meeting the defined criteria.

Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program

The Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program seeks to honor Renna Clarinet Thornton’s philosophy and enthusiasm for education.

After graduating from Coppin State College with her degree in special education in 1972, Renna started her 40-year teaching journey with Baltimore City Public Schools as a science teacher and special educator.

Through the Clarinet Program, the Claude C. Thornton Foundation offers workforce development training, a $1,000 scholarship to collegiate students, as well as parent coaching 1:1s and workshops.

Mission

The Clarinet Scholarship provides awardees with unrestricted monetary and mentorship support to empower minority students through their academic journey, ultimately promoting exceptional achievement. The Clarinet Scholarship also serves to encourage awardees to continue utilizing inquiry-based strategies to gain the academics and skills needed to be victorious and productive within the community.

The Centers of Excellence Program, funded by the US HHS: HRSA, aims to improve health professions education for under-represented minority individuals. It provides grants to health schools and organizations to enhance academic performance, expand clinical education, and strengthen faculty recruitment. This initiative promotes strategic partnerships to develop a competitive applicant pool and supports research on health issues affecting minority groups, ensuring better health outcomes and career opportunities in the health professions.

This funding opportunity by the FDA aims to enhance education and public awareness regarding the risks associated with skin lightening products, such as hydroquinone. The initiative encourages innovative, community-based strategies that engage stakeholders in promoting health equity. Proposals should focus on outreach activities that strengthen the scientific understanding of these products while addressing public health concerns. This is a vital step in ensuring safer use and informed consumer choices.

The REACHing Communities (REACH) Consortium (U01) Clinical Trials Optional grant aims to advance health equity among racial and ethnic minorities through cooperative agreements. It focuses on research, outreach, and mentoring diverse students and researchers. Although the grant information has not been updated in over six months, it remains under observation for potential updates. The initiative is part of the FDA Office of Minority Health and Health Equity's commitment to improving minority health.

The Eash-Potter Scholarship supports LGBTQ youth in central Pennsylvania, honoring Melinda Eash and Sharon Potter's legacy. It is available to graduating high school seniors from specific counties who demonstrate commitment to enhancing the community climate for LGBTQ+ individuals. Financial need is a consideration, and the scholarship is a one-time award. Students of color, transgender individuals, and children of LGBTQ+ parents are particularly encouraged to apply, promoting diversity and inclusion within the scholarship program.

The Indian Housing Block Grant Competitive Program (IHBG-COMP) for FY 2026 offers competitive grants to eligible recipients under NAHASDA. This program aims to support affordable housing initiatives benefiting low-income Tribal families, enhancing their living conditions and community well-being. Funded by the US HUD's Office of Public and Indian Housing, the IHBG-COMP encourages the development of sustainable housing solutions within Native American communities.

Steve's Foundation Grant is a small private funding opportunity providing grants between $500 and $5,000, averaging $2,600. It supports organizations that empower disadvantaged individuals, focusing on cost-effective programs that yield significant impacts. The foundation prioritizes proposals from non-profits that directly assist those in need, especially children and marginalized communities. Applications are evaluated annually in May or June, but due to high demand, the foundation cannot respond to every inquiry.

The Hillman Innovations in Care Grant seeks innovative, nursing-driven proposals to address the impact of racism on health equity for marginalized communities. This includes addressing health disparities faced by BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and economically disadvantaged populations. The program encourages bold, evidence-based interventions that enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes. Grants of up to $600,000 will support projects that demonstrate potential for broad replicability and sustainability over a 36-month period.

PetSmart Charities offers Natural Disaster Response Grants to support organizations addressing the urgent needs of pets affected by major disasters. Grant funds can be utilized for shelter supplies, veterinary care, structural repairs, and supplemental staff expenses within 30 to 45 days post-disaster. In special cases, funding may extend up to 60 days. Eligible applicants include authorized disaster responders and nonprofit organizations directly impacted by the disaster, ensuring timely assistance to affected animals and their caretakers.

The ICRG Seed Grant supports innovative research aimed at understanding and treating gambling disorders. With a focus on pilot studies, secondary data analysis, and developing new methodologies, it encourages both established and early-career researchers to apply for funding up to $40,000. The grant emphasizes the importance of addressing critical issues in gambling research while ensuring the inclusion of diverse participant groups. This initiative aims to enhance public education and promote responsible gaming practices.

The Health Equity Data Access Program (HEDAP) offers funding for six seats in the CMS Virtual Research Data Center, enabling researchers to access critical CMS data for minority health research. Focused on various health topics, HEDAP aims to tackle health disparities among underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and individuals affected by poverty. The program encourages innovative research methods and intersectional approaches, enhancing researchers' capacity to utilize CMS data effectively while providing actionable insights for stakeholders.

The CareQuest Institute for Oral Health® is inviting proposals for school-based and school-linked initiatives aimed at improving oral health access for high-risk children. This grant opportunity seeks to address systemic barriers to oral health through innovative programs that engage schools and communities. Ideal projects may include workforce development, community engagement strategies, policy advocacy, and the use of technology. Proposals should focus on creating equitable oral health solutions that enhance both health and academic success for children and their families.