Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Michigan

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

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

Brenda and Charles Muller Scholarship

Brenda Muller was an avid reader. The last seven years of her career with the State of Ohio were in the Department of Education. Charles Muller was the recipient of a scholarship that made an otherwise unobtainable college education possible. His studies of America’s material culture could not have been without the assistance of many libraries. Libraries are the keepers of history, the preservers of culture and the gateway to the pursuit of intellectual curiosity.

The PLTW Computer Science program, supported by Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education in various communities by funding schools to implement PLTW courses. This partnership promotes student engagement with real-world challenges, preparing them for future careers in technology. With a total grant of $20,000, schools must offer multiple PLTW courses over two years, ensuring access to quality education for underserved populations.

American Chemical Society

Science moves forward when people come together. For over 150 years, ACS, a nonprofit organization, has united the global scientific community to foster research excellence, advance scientific education, and champion innovation. Discover how, together, we advance scientific knowledge, champion integrity, and build a community where science is for everyone.

Our Vision: A world built on science

Our Mission: 

• Advance scientific knowledge
• Empower a global community
• Champion scientific integrity

Core Values: 

• Passion for Science
• Lifelong Learning
• Inclusion and Belonging
• Sustainability

ACS Catalyst Scholarship

Description

The Catalyst Scholarship is a need-based award that supports undergraduate students pursuing chemistry or chemistry-related fields. Providing $10,000 in funding, with the potential for renewal, the scholarship helps students overcome financial barriers, persist in their studies, and advance toward their academic and career aspirations.

The Prof. Chan Two-Year College Award for the Engaged Teaching of Biology recognizes outstanding contributions by Two-Year College faculty who develop and implement innovative, inclusive pedagogical approaches. Sponsored by Sarah McBride and John Melville, this award emphasizes the impact of teaching on a broader student population and includes a $500 travel grant for the NABT Professional Development Conference, fostering professional development and collaboration among biology educators.

The Brave Heart Foundation Grant aims to uplift underserved populations, focusing on children and families through education, health, and community action. With a commitment to funding impactful programs in Indiana, the Foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate clear community benefits. Larger funding requests are accepted from previously funded agencies, ensuring continuity and accountability. This grant serves as a vital resource for initiatives that enhance the well-being of those in need, fostering positive change within local communities.

Burns and McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned firm, partners with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance access to STEM education. By expanding PLTW Computer Science programs in local schools, they aim to engage students in real-world challenges and equip them with essential skills. Eligible schools must be located in specific counties and serve a majority of students from low-income backgrounds. This initiative supports the growth of STEM education, fostering a brighter future for communities through enhanced learning opportunities.

Scholarships

We award over 120 scholarships each year to Monroe County residents. Whether you’re heading to college, pursuing a technical career, or furthering your education as an adult, there’s a scholarship for you.

By submitting the general application, you’ll automatically be matched with scholarships you’re eligible for based on factors like your GPA, field of study, and more. This process connects you to over 60 scholarships with diverse criteria, including need-based scholarships, academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and more.

Thomas Fox Scholarship

Available to Monroe County high school seniors pursuing studies in computer science or information technology.

The NewSchools: Learning Solutions Grant Program aims to empower K-8 students by enhancing their literacy and numeracy skills, crucial for overcoming educational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With a focus on innovative learning solutions, the program seeks to fund early-stage ideas that engage students and support educators. By leveraging research and technology, including generative AI, it aims to create equitable educational opportunities, fostering a brighter future for all students.

The Barbara McDowell and Gerald S. Hartman Foundation Grant supports social justice litigation in the U.S. by providing funding to organizations involved in systemic legal cases. Since 2009, the foundation has awarded over $1.4 million to 49 organizations, enhancing the lives of disadvantaged groups through impactful legal advocacy. The foundation prioritizes cases that align with its focus areas, including children's rights, discrimination, and homelessness, ensuring comprehensive support for societal improvement.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) funding aims to enhance healthcare access in underserved communities across the U.S. by providing grants for comprehensive primary and preventive health services. This initiative addresses essential health needs through competitive funding opportunities, ensuring that health centers can effectively serve their designated areas. Additional service areas may be announced as needed if current centers are unable to continue their operations, thus maintaining service continuity.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Knowles Future Teacher Scholarship Fund

The Knowles family has a history of being in the education field, and greatly values the teaching profession. The Knowles Future teacher Scholarship was established by the Knowles family and friends to encourage the next generation of teachers to continue their education past high school. Selection is based on acceptance to a college or university with a major in Education and a 3.0 GPA minimum. Evidence of good character, volunteer service, and demonstrated commitment to youth in a school setting area also selection considerations.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

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

Thomas and Richard Larrimer Scholarship Fund-Franklin County

This scholarship was established by Terrence Larrimer to honor his grandfather, Thomas Larrimer (1879-1915), and his father, Richard Larrimer (1903-1987). Both men grew up and were educated in Washington Court House. When Thomas Larrimer died in a work related accident, Richard assumed responsibility for his own education and that of his two younger brothers. Richard Larrimer graduated from The Ohio State University Law School in 1925 and founded Larrimer & Larrimer, a Columbus law firm specializing in Worker's Compensation. Through this scholarship Terrence wishes to recognize his father's commitment to education and by focusing the scholarship on science and engineering, to emphasize the importance of these disciplines in our nation's future.

The MMUF Advancement Program offers Adjunct Faculty Fellowships designed for alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. These fellowships provide essential resources and time to focus on research and scholarship, aiding individuals in securing tenure-track positions. Each fellow receives a $10,000 stipend, a six-month award period, a mentor, and funding to attend a conference. This initiative supports diverse perspectives in higher education, fostering an inclusive academic environment.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Awards

Cooper Black Award for Creativity

The Copper Black Award for Creative Achievement honors Mensa members whose innovative solutions and practical creativity have brought meaningful benefits to the world.

Details

The Copper Black Award annually recognizes Mensa International members who have demonstrated a specific creative achievement with practical value. This award honors innovations that have been implemented, at least in part, to benefit others.

Award Components

The Stewart C. Watson Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACI Foundation, provides a $5,000 stipend to graduate students focusing on joints, bearings, or seismic systems in concrete structures. This scholarship supports educational pursuits and recognizes recipients in Concrete International magazine. Eligible candidates must be full-time master's or PhD students and should not have exceeded their second year of a master's or fourth year of a PhD program. This initiative promotes innovation in the concrete industry.

The National Science Foundation's FINDERS FOUNDRY program fosters collaboration among K-12 educators, technologists, and researchers to address challenges in learning and workforce development. By creating innovative, evidence-based solutions, the program enhances educational outcomes and prepares students for a digital future driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI). It emphasizes early exposure to AI, encouraging partnerships across various sectors to co-design responsive, technology-based solutions. The program includes phases for planning and development, aligning with national priorities.

Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship will provide need-based scholarships of up to $2,500 to service-oriented college freshmen who have completed a minimum of 60 hours of community service within the last 12 months. Awards will be issued in the 2025-2026 academic year, and may be renewed annually through the senior year.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is committed to the positive development of youth and future leaders. Through providing programs focused on financial literacy, education, mentoring, health and wellness, and early childhood development, the Foundation promotes the preparation of succeeding generations of leaders.

The Organizational Change in the Professional Formation of Engineers (ENGINEER:OC) initiative promotes innovative research and activities aimed at transforming engineering education and workforce development. Supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), it seeks to enhance access to quality engineering programs across diverse institutions. Projects may involve implementing new curricular innovations or adapting existing models to different contexts, ultimately advancing the professional formation of engineers and fostering inclusive educational pathways.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

The Waltman - Howard Scholarship Fund

The Waltman – Howard Scholarship Fund was established by Kevin Howard, a 2015 graduate of Harper Creek, in honor of Sharon Waltman’s distinguished teaching career at Harper Creek Community Schools. Mrs. Waltman was Kevin’s 4th-grade teacher at Beadle Lake Elementary. She has made a tremendous impact on his life as she has done for countless other students in our community. Since finishing a successful 4th-grade year, Kevin and Mrs. Waltman have maintained a friendship to this day. Mrs. Waltman’s class helped inspire Kevin’s career in social impact. Mrs. Waltman is within a few years of retirement and is excited to see where the next chapter takes her. This scholarship is intended to recognize and support a Harper Creek student who embodies Mrs. Waltman’s dedication to education and her commitment to making a positive impact in one’s community.

The Professional Formation of Engineers (PFE) initiative aims to enhance the engineering workforce through integrated research and education. It focuses on developing ethical engineers who can adapt to a changing technical landscape. PFE supports diverse training contexts, including formal education, internships, and community experiences, ensuring clear pathways into the profession. This initiative fosters collaboration among engineers, technical workers, and communities, enhancing the skills needed for global competition and technological advancement.

Communities Foundation of Oklahoma

The Communities Foundation of Oklahoma stems from the vision of Tom McCasland Jr., and Gene Rainbolt. Two decades ago, these gentlemen formed a shared vision to create a single philanthropic organization to serve the charitable needs to rural communities across the great state of Oklahoma. Today, CFO has grown to assist hundreds of efforts in more than 45 counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

CFO offers over 100 diverse scholarship opportunities, empowering students across the state to pursue their educational goals. Each scholarship is tailored to meet unique needs, making higher education more accessible for all.

Tulsa Engineering Scholarship

Provides a $24,000 ($3,000/semester) scholarship to graduating seniors in the Tulsa-area pursuing an engineering degree with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and overall ACT score of 24 or higher, with a minimum math sub-score of 24.

The Faerie L. Angle Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Foundation for Enhancing Communities, provides scholarships to aspiring lawyers from Franklin County, PA. Eligible candidates must have been accepted into a three-year J.D. program, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to support local talent in pursuing legal education and fostering community engagement through the legal profession.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Urban League of Battle Creek Scholarship Fund

The Southwestern Michigan Urban League is an affiliate of the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. The NUL was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in New York City. The Southwestern Michigan Urban League, founded in 1966, is proud to support minority students from the Battle Creek Area who are actively involved in the community and pursuing their academic goals. This is one way in which the Urban League is working to support the dreams of our youth.

The Northwestern University Publication Subvention Grants support eligible faculty and graduate students with production costs or translation expenses for published works. Applicants must have a formal publication contract for a book or journal article. Priority is given to tenure-track assistant professors, and only one grant is allowed per year. Non-allowable expenses include travel, advertising, and the purchase of copies. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.

The Borchard Foundation Fellowship in Law and Aging offers two-year fellowships for law school graduates pursuing careers in law and aging. The fellowship provides $62,000 annually, with support for professional development and networking opportunities. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or residents and have a host agency to supervise their projects. The fellowship begins around July 1 or September 1, depending on Bar admission status, allowing flexibility in work location within the U.S.

The Franklin Research Grants support noncommercial research by funding travel to libraries and archives, purchasing research materials, and covering fieldwork or laboratory expenses. With a maximum award of $6,000, these grants are aimed at scholars with a doctorate or equivalent publications, excluding Ph.D. candidates. Grants are taxable, not retroactive, and are not intended for conference attendance or publication costs. The program encourages young scholars and allows reapplications after two years.

The Skadden Fellowship Foundation, established in 1988, offers two-year fellowships for law graduates to engage in public interest law. With a focus on serving the legal needs of impoverished communities, the program has funded over 900 fellows who contribute significantly to public service. The fellowship covers salaries and benefits, ensuring dedicated legal talent addresses critical issues. Skadden fosters ongoing support through newsletters and reunions, solidifying its commitment to improving legal services across the United States.