Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Michigan

ASPCA PRO

ASPCApro.org provides tools and resources for animal welfare professionals, veterinary personnel and volunteers. We take a progressive approach to helping the country's at-risk animals, promoting cutting edge research to advance the field.

ASPCA Research Grants

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) research grants fund high-quality research with a clear potential to benefit animals, either directly or through effecting systems-level change. Proposals to extend existing studies, focused on other disciplines, will also be considered if they can clearly demonstrate substantial potential benefit to animal welfare.

This year we are soliciting proposals in the following six research areas:

• Access to Veterinary Care (AVC) Research
• Applied Behavior Research
• Cruelty Research
• Farm Animal Welfare Research
• Psychological Trauma Research
• Shelter Research

Proposals focused on evaluating the effectiveness of a program or service must demonstrate methodological rigor and a clear plan to produce generalizable scientific knowledge. Please view eligibility information for specific projects from the research area you are interested in. 

Farm Animal Welfare Research

Proposals exploring how farmers’ use of healthier, non-conventional broiler chicken breeds, intersects with the birds’ use of pasture, environmental outcomes, and/or chicken product nutritional content. Research may be conducted by farms or other businesses in addition to academic or research institutions. However, field studies must include an academic partner or follow established field trial protocols for design and data collection.

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

Louis S. and Nancy L. Rubinsky Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Nancy L. Rubinsky, who established the Louis S. and Nancy L. Rubinsky Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in honor of Louis. Lifelong residents of Muskegon, Nancy and Louis Rubinsky, had been active members of the Muskegon community. Louis was a fixture on Western Avenue as a salesman at Vets Clothing. Nancy was active at the Muskegon Community College, first, as an instructor of nursing, and, then, as a Board Trustee. Grants from the fund will mirror the Rubinsky's individual passions. In honor of Louis, the fund will support community education projects in the visual and performing arts and Nancy's interests will be expressed by supporting adult/returning students pursuing nursing degrees.

The ASTS: Veloxis Fellowship in Transplantation Grant offers $42,500 per year for two years to support clinical training in solid organ transplantation. This grant is aimed at current transplant surgery trainees who have completed their surgical residency and are committed to the field. Awardees must attend the ASTS Award Ceremony and complete their fellowship at the same institution for the duration of the award, ensuring a focused and comprehensive training experience.

Bernard and Jerene Lemmen Memorial Scholarship

Allegan or Ottawa County graduating senior, graduating early college student, current college student, or adult returning to school.

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

MPS/Dietz Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Muskegon Public Schools, who established the MPS/Dietz Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. For many years Muskegon Public Schools has administered several scholarship s for the benefit of Muskegon County high school students. Following a review of these scholarships and recognizing the Foundation's considerable expertise not only in scholarship programming but also in investment management, the Board of Education approved a recommendation to transfer all scholarships held by Muskegon Public Schools to the Muskegon County Community Foundation. The Foundation is proud to receive this honor and looks forward to working with Muskegon Public Schools administrators to award scholarships to Muskegon-area high school seniors for many years to come.

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

MPS/Harry E. and Clara H. Brown Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Muskegon Public Schools, who established the MPS/Harry E. and Clara H. Brown Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. For many years Muskegon Public Schools has administered several scholarships for the benefit of Muskegon County high school students. Following a review of these scholarships and recognizing the Foundation's considerable expertise not only in scholarship programming but also in investment management, the Board of Education approved a recommendation to transfer all scholarships held by Muskegon Public Schools to the Muskegon County Community Foundation. The Foundation is proud to receive this honor and looks forward to working with Muskegon Public Schools administrators to award scholarships to Muskegon-area high school seniors for many years to come

Agnes Zuverink-Norman Nursing Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Holland Christian, Holland High School, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West.

The Brayman-Beach Scholarship, honoring leaders Susan J. Brayman and Carroll D. Beach, supports Colorado youth pursuing a bachelor's degree. It awards two scholarships of $5,000 annually, aimed at members of Colorado credit unions who demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, U.S. citizens, and complete the FAFSA by March 1. This investment in education fosters the future of the credit union movement.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Cindy Graves Nursing Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is intended for students who are pursuing an additional degree or certification in nursing to grow professionally and better serve their patients. Students may attend any accredited educational institution, college, or university.

This Fund honors Cindy Graves, a DeKalb County public health nurse who had a tremendous impact on the community. Cindy was a registered nurse at Kishwaukee Hospital for 30 years – working as a pediatric nurse and emergency room RN, house supervisor, ER charge nurse, EMS educator, EMS coordinator, and ER director (2005 – 2012). From 2012 until the time of her passing Cindy worked at the DeKalb County Health Department as the director of community health and prevention, health promotion and emergency preparedness. Cindy was very active in the community and with her church.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

CHS Inc. Scholarship Fund

This Fund was created as a lasting memory to the legacy of the Elburn Cooperative and to support the communities that strengthen the cooperative.

The CHS Inc. Scholarship is available to high school graduates and current undergraduate students at an accredited college or university. Applicants must be a family member of an eligible CHS Inc. customer or employee. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Brian D. Slavenas Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Fund honors Brian D. Slavenas, a DeKalb High School graduate who was killed in Iraq (2003). The scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating high school senior who is a resident of DeKalb County, IL, and going on to either major or minor in music. Preference is given to applicants who were involved in music during at least the last two years of high school. 

The Valley Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Santa Clara County and beyond by supporting qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. Focused on educational, historical, and preservation initiatives, the Foundation provides essential funding to groups dedicated to societal improvement. By fostering partnerships with like-minded entities, The Valley Foundation strives to create lasting positive change through its grant-making efforts.

The Support Program for Translation and Publication on Japan offers financial assistance to overseas publishers for translating and publishing Japanese works. It covers part of costs incurred between April 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, including translation fees and publication expenses. Eligible costs include paper, typesetting, and printing, but do not cover editing or copyright fees. The goal is to enhance global understanding of Japan through literature.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Suter Family Scholarship Fund

Provides an annual award to graduates at both DeKalb and Sycamore high schools. The Charles & Helen Suter Memorial Scholarship award will honor the late Charles and Helen Suter, their love for education and learning, and the family’s ongoing service to the community.

As with many funds at the Community Foundation, the Suter Family Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of a loved one. Recipients of the award will know it as the Charles & Helen Suter Memorial Scholarship award. Eligibility criteria for the award speaks to the values and ideals held by the family, holding academic achievement, volunteerism and service club involvement as preferred.

Currently there are over 65 scholarship funds at the Community Foundation, all with a desire to provide impact in the pursuit of education.

The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides up to $5,000 for U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status to promote Japanese Studies. This grant supports conferences, presentations, and research that enhances understanding of Japan. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for online projects, while others must be submitted three months prior to the project start date. Preference is given to projects that secure additional funding from other sources.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Virginia Larsen Nursing Scholarship Fund

Started in 2001 by Sycamore resident Virginia Larsen, the Virginia Larsen Nursing Scholarship is open to students who are residents of DeKalb County seeking a college-level nursing degree. Applicants must be full-time students.

The Catalyst Adventure Grant, offered by the American Alpine Club, supports individuals and teams from underrepresented communities in climbing. Awards range from $250 to $2,000, aiming to overcome barriers to access. The grant promotes skill progression in various climbing disciplines, emphasizing community engagement. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens or green card holders of all experience levels, with expeditions required to occur between June 15, 2025, and June 30, 2026.

The Allegan County Community Foundation is committed to supporting programs that create meaningful impact across our community. Through a variety of grant opportunities, we help nonprofits, schools, government entities, and community organizations bring their ideas to life and address the most pressing needs in Allegan County. Whether you’re focused on youth, food security, housing, or other areas of local importance, our grantmaking is designed to fuel your mission and foster lasting change. Explore our open grant cycles, guidelines, and resources to get started.

Allegan County Community Foundation: PRIDE Fund Grant

The Pride Fund promotes safe, healthy, affirming environments for LGBTQIA+ communities within Allegan County by increasing visibility, allyship, multigenerational support, access to resources and promoting physical and mental health. Organizations providing programs and services that serve the LGBTQIA+ community in Allegan County that meet these criteria are welcome to apply.

The Pride Fund promotes safe, healthy, affirming environments for LGBTQIA+ communities within Allegan County. Priority is given to programs that: 

• Increase visibility, 
• increase allyship,  
• increase multigenerational support,  
• increase access to resources, and  
• promotes physical and mental health. 

Empowering a Better Tomorrow Scholarship

The Empowering a Better Tomorrow Scholarship, powered by Walmart, is intended to assist in the creation of a pathway for those who desire to further their education as they enter back into society. This scholarship will be available to the formerly incarcerated or those who have recently been convicted and who have completed their sentence. This scholarship will be awarded to individuals who can exhibit qualities of leadership, commitment to change, and desire to give back to their community.

Scholarship amount:

• $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Palmer Family Music Education Scholarship Fund

Dee Palmer, his brother, parents, and grandparents have contributed to the musical pleasure of thousands of people in DeKalb County for over 160 years. The establishment of the Palmer Family Music Education Scholarship Fund is in their honor and provides an award for a high school senior who resides in DeKalb County and is pursuing a career in music. This scholarship is administered by the Community Foundation.

The LACCW Resilience Scholarship Program, initiated by the Los Angeles County Commission for Women, supports women in overcoming personal and academic challenges. Established in 1999, it has awarded over $500,000 in scholarships, emphasizing resilience and determination. Eligible applicants must reside in Los Angeles County and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA while enrolled in accredited educational programs. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also motivates women to achieve their academic goals despite adversities.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

DeKalb County Dental Society Fund

This Fund provides scholarship support for high school seniors from a DeKalb County high school determined by DeKalb County Dental Society.

The Medical Student Research Award, funded by the American College of Gastroenterology, offers U.S. and Canadian medical students a unique opportunity for summer research experiences in gastroenterology and hepatology. This award promotes interest in these fields through mentored projects, covering living expenses and travel to the ACG Annual Scientific meeting. Since 1994, over $31.89 million has been awarded, supporting more than 745 recipients, making it a vital program for aspiring researchers.

The ISF New Student Scholarship supports orphaned or former foster care students in their pursuit of higher education. By providing financial assistance and mentoring, ISF empowers these students to overcome obstacles and thrive academically. Recipients are selected based on their moral character, commitment to personal growth, and readiness to engage in leadership training. This initiative aims to transform lives and foster the next generation of leaders.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

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

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.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Darrell H. and Rosaline M. Smith Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Rosaline M. Smith, who established the Darrell H. and Rosaline M. Smith Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Rosaline a former Treasurer for the City of Muskegon, and Darrell Smith, a longtime employee of the Muskegon Post Office, who cared deeply for each other and shared more than 50 years of marriage. Music was something they loved and had very much in common. The Darrell H. and Rosaline M. Smith scholarship was created to honor Darrell, who is no longer with us, and to provide a helping hand to graduating seniors of any Muskegon County high school who have demonstrated academic achievement and will pursue a music degree.

The Woman of Wonder Scholarship supports women residents of Washington State pursuing higher education, whether full-time or part-time. Applicants must demonstrate financial need through FAFSA and share a personal essay about a pivotal life moment. This scholarship aims to empower single mothers and women facing challenges in their educational journey. Awards can be used for undergraduate, advanced degrees, continuing education, or certificates, ensuring accessibility for all women seeking academic advancement.

The AHA Career Development Award supports early-career healthcare professionals to explore innovative research questions and pilot studies. With a budget of $77,000 per year, this award aims to enhance research skills, provide mentorship, and prepare awardees for successful scientific careers. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree and commit at least 10% effort to the award. The program emphasizes mentorship from experienced investigators, ensuring a structured path towards independence in research.