Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Michigan

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

T. Llyle and Marion S. Keith Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior or a graduate of a public high school in Henderson County. This scholarship is not based on merit (however, must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 or better), but on financial need. Students must be pursuing their undergraduate education in a two or four year accredited institution.

The schlarship is renewable.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Tracy Grove Community Club Scholarship

Applicant must graduate from a school in Henderson County and must intend to enroll in a degree-granting program in an accredited two- or four-year institute. 

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

McDonald Family Cookie Jar Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County school district, who plans to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree program, and who demonstrates financial need. In the selection process, preference shall be given to students from under-represented, disadvantaged and/or diverse populations.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Olivia Scott Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County high school, who demonstrate academic excellence, sportsmanship, and/or the ability to work with others towards a common goal.

Saginaw Community Foundation

The Saginaw Community Foundation (SCF) is a tax-exempt charitable organization created by and for the people of Saginaw County. Established in 1984 with an initial grant of $50,000 by the Junior League of Saginaw Valley in celebration of its 50th anniversary, SCF enables people with philanthropic interests to easily and effectively support the issues they care about – immediately, or through their wills. SCF is one of 900+ community foundations nationwide classified as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Unlike a private foundation, SCF’s assets come from any number of individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations interested in improving the quality of life in our community. These gifts range in size and purpose, depending upon the interests of individual donors. Some funds are given for specific charitable purposes; others are unrestricted so they may be used to meet the changing needs of our community.

Saginaw Promise Zone Scholarship

Saginaw Promise – investing in the future of Saginaw and the lives of its students through a postsecondary education scholarship. The Saginaw Promise is an economic initiative formed through the Michigan Promise Zone Authority Act, enacted in 2009. The Saginaw Promise mission is to affect Saginaw’s economy and quality of life by promoting and supporting postsecondary education for all of Saginaw’s graduating students through information, programming, and a residence-based, last-dollar scholarship. Students eligible to apply must live in and graduate from a high school in the Saginaw Promise Zone consisting of the geographic boundaries of the Saginaw Public School District (City of Saginaw, City of Zilwaukee, Kochville Township and the area of Buena Vista Township designated to the Saginaw Public School District). The Saginaw Promise’s goal is for all of Saginaw’s graduating students to earn a program certificate or degree from a technical or trade school, community college or university in the state of Michigan. The scholarship funds tuition and mandatory fees that are not covered by federal, state, private, or other grants or scholarships.

Special Attachment Required

Please refer to the online scholarship application for more information

The National Leaders of Color Fellowship (LoCF) is an eight-month online program designed to foster multicultural leadership within the creative and cultural sectors. Participants receive expert guidance, engage in strategic learning focused on anti-racist practices, and build national networks. This fellowship is open to early to mid-career leaders who self-identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of color, and encourages diversity across various dimensions. Alumni can collaborate with regional arts organizations post-fellowship.

Community Foundation of Wabash County

Since its creation in 1954, the Community Foundation has grown and continually adapted its priorities to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Through these changes, challenges, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and provider, the Community Foundation has remained true to its mission and commitment to Wabash County citizens.

Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Wabash County offers a wide variety of post-secondary education scholarships to traditional, non-traditional, and graduate students. With nearly 70 different scholarship endowments created through the generosity of our donors, many students are eligible to apply.  

Richard L. and Marna L. Hettmansperger Scholarship Endowment

When their Methodist Church building closed, the Hettmanspergers put the money from the sale of the church to work as a scholarship for graduate students who want to prepare for missions, ministry, or one of the helping professions, such as social work, counseling, nursing, public health, and education.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation, founded in 2006, is the newest community foundation in South Carolina. We have a permanent endowment to meet the changing needs of the Pee Dee.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs. We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties.

Scholarships

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation partners with donors to administer 12 scholarship funds for the benefit of students in the Pee Dee. All scholarship opportunities are established through specific funds established at ECCF with criteria determined by the donor. 

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

This fund provides a scholarship to a graduating Pee Dee area high school senior who plans to major in education and teach at the elementary level. The fund was established in memory of Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey who dedicated twenty years to the teaching of kindergarten students at Theodore Lester Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Community Foundation Competitive Grants

Through grantmaking, we partner with local organizations to support projects that reflect the needs and opportunities of our region and serve our donors’ shared desire to enhance the quality of life for people in Mason County, now and far into the future.

Our Priorities

• Education: Workforce and Learning Readiness - We strive to create a career education culture across multiple pathways (college, trades, certificates, and apprenticeships), increase equitable access to high-quality learning opportunities for all ages, and advance talent development initiatives that align learning with workforce needs.

• Economic Development: Workforce Supports - We aim to foster a thriving local economy by developing innovative, attainable housing solutions; advancing transportation infrastructure and accessibility; and removing barriers to financial independence.

• Community Development: Recreation & Quality of Life - We promote the development of new, existing, and interconnected trails; work to increase and enhance inclusive and engaging public spaces and recreational activities; and foster vibrant, diverse, and sustainable arts and culture opportunities.

Be sure to review our grant priorities and guidelines. 

Community Foundation Competitive Grants: The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant Opportunity

The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant opportunity is available for nonprofits seeking support for projects that address prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance abuse and substance use disorders. Nonprofits interested will complete the same application and choose “The Boon House Legacy Fund Grant” option in the strategic goal section of the application.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Equitable Sioux Empire Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of an accredited public or private high school in the Sioux Falls area. Equitable employees, associates, immediate family members of employees, and associates of the Donor are ineligible for this award.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Joe Foss "An American Hero" Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors from South Dakota high schools. 

Community Foundation of Wabash County

Since its creation in 1954, the Community Foundation has grown and continually adapted its priorities to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Through these changes, challenges, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and provider, the Community Foundation has remained true to its mission and commitment to Wabash County citizens.

Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Wabash County offers a wide variety of post-secondary education scholarships to traditional, non-traditional, and graduate students. With nearly 70 different scholarship endowments created through the generosity of our donors, many students are eligible to apply.  

Paul Thomas Reahard Memorial Scholarship Fund

Paul Reahard taught English, creative writing, and theatre arts at Whitko High School where he was the recipient of the prestigious Dekko Foundation Teacher of the Year Award in 1996. His parents created this scholarship to carry on their son’s legacy of bringing out the best in students and awakening the spark of creativity within themselves. Selection will be based on academic performance, and financial need. Community service, work experience, or an indication of interest in and dedication to activities in performing arts, drama, theater, English literature, or creative writing are contributing factors.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Mark Bielen Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of an accredited high school in Minnehaha or Lincoln County in South Dakota.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Robert W. Best Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors of Sioux Falls Christian High School or a public high school in Sioux Falls, SD.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Sally Bertina Meyer Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of a high school in Minnehaha County in South Dakota.

Community Foundation of Wabash County

Since its creation in 1954, the Community Foundation has grown and continually adapted its priorities to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Through these changes, challenges, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and provider, the Community Foundation has remained true to its mission and commitment to Wabash County citizens.

Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Wabash County offers a wide variety of post-secondary education scholarships to traditional, non-traditional, and graduate students. With nearly 70 different scholarship endowments created through the generosity of our donors, many students are eligible to apply.  

Dr. Howard and Helen Liebengood Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Howard and Helen Liebengood Scholarship is awarded to students who are residents of Kosciusko County graduating in the top 20% of their high school class. Dr. Liebengood was a veterinarian in Silver Lake and did much to support youth, 4-H programs, and his hometown. This renewable scholarship helps promising students who have financial need.

R. Kubly Family Foundation

The goal of the R. Kubly Family Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in Monroe, Wisconsin by empowering educated and leadership-focused individuals who live and work in the Monroe area.

Scholarship Loan Program

The R. Kubly Family Foundation makes low interest loans to qualified individuals for use in paying their school tuition for graduate, professional, or certain undergraduate degrees through the Scholarship Loan Program. The Foundation will forgive those loans if the individual lives and works in the Monroe, Wisconsin area for five years after graduation. See the Program Detail & Policies PDF for more information. 

Scholarship Loan Program applications are accepted throughout the year.

The NCAA Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship is awarded annually to one male and one female student-athlete, recognizing outstanding academic achievement and potential for success in graduate study. Each scholarship provides $24,000 for one academic year, with the possibility of renewal. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.500, compete in NCAA athletics, and demonstrate strong character and leadership. The scholarship aims to support future leaders in their chosen fields, fostering excellence in academics and community engagement.

The American Urological Association Rising Stars in Urology Research Award supports physician-scientists in their journey to become independent researchers in urology. By providing supplemental salary support for up to five years, the program ensures awardees maintain protected research time while receiving competitive compensation. This initiative encourages promising researchers to compete for further funding and enhances their training in urologic research, ultimately advancing the field and improving patient care.

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Regular Grants, provided by the Barry Community Foundation, aim to fund initiatives that significantly benefit the youth in Barry County, Michigan. Grants up to $3,000 are available, with proposals due on March 15th and October 15th. Additionally, mini grants of up to $300 can be submitted year-round. This program empowers local youth by requiring that grant applications be written by youth members of their organizations, fostering leadership and community engagement.

Bucks County Foundation

Since our founding in 1979, the staff at BCF have been working closely with donors, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Bucks County. Our work with local charitable organizations helps to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.

Scholarships

The Bucks County Foundation is proud to support students throughout Bucks County in their pursuit of higher education and attainment of academic, trade and life skills that translate into economic self-sufficiency. Through the generosity of donors in our region, we manage over 100 scholarship distributions for a wide variety of students with diverse educational journeys.

Robert Winters Memorial Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to students who plan to major in education at Council Rock and Central Bucks High Schools.

Bucks County Foundation

Since our founding in 1979, the staff at BCF have been working closely with donors, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Bucks County. Our work with local charitable organizations helps to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.

Scholarships

The Bucks County Foundation is proud to support students throughout Bucks County in their pursuit of higher education and attainment of academic, trade and life skills that translate into economic self-sufficiency. Through the generosity of donors in our region, we manage over 100 scholarship distributions for a wide variety of students with diverse educational journeys.

Steven Pannepacker Memorial Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to students at Council Rock North and South High Schools who excel in academic studies and participates in extracurricular activities and community service.

Bucks County Foundation

Since our founding in 1979, the staff at BCF have been working closely with donors, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Bucks County. Our work with local charitable organizations helps to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.

Scholarships

The Bucks County Foundation is proud to support students throughout Bucks County in their pursuit of higher education and attainment of academic, trade and life skills that translate into economic self-sufficiency. Through the generosity of donors in our region, we manage over 100 scholarship distributions for a wide variety of students with diverse educational journeys.

The David Perrine Memorial Scholarship

Provides scholarships to students graduating from Central Bucks School District. Eligibility is based on the criteria set forth by David’s family.

Bucks County Foundation

Since our founding in 1979, the staff at BCF have been working closely with donors, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Bucks County. Our work with local charitable organizations helps to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.

Scholarships

The Bucks County Foundation is proud to support students throughout Bucks County in their pursuit of higher education and attainment of academic, trade and life skills that translate into economic self-sufficiency. Through the generosity of donors in our region, we manage over 100 scholarship distributions for a wide variety of students with diverse educational journeys.

The Robert Winters and Sydney Waskey Memorial Scholarship

Provides scholarships to students who plan to major in education at Central Bucks High Schools and Council Rock.

Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Educational Scholarship

The Dr. A.I. Slagle Medical Education Scholarship is for students entering their first year at an accredited medical school in the US to obtain an MD or DO. This is a 4-year renewable scholarship if the student remains in satisfactory academic standing.

• May be renewable up to 4 years - must reapply each year in order to be eligible
• Approximately $72,800 available (which may be split into multiple awards)

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Becca Bohannon Memorial Scholarship

The applicant must be a female graduating senior from Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Meade or Nelson County

Additional documentation requirements: An essay describing how service to others has been an important part of your growth and development.

The American Urological Association's Research Scholar Award offers $40,000 annually for one or two years of mentored research training. This program aims to attract promising young investigators into urologic research, providing essential support to clinical and postdoctoral fellows within five years of completing their doctorate or residency and early career faculty within their first five years. This funding opportunity is crucial for fostering the next generation of urologic researchers.