Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Michigan

The NCR-SARE Graduate Student Grant Program funds up to $20,000 for graduate student projects addressing sustainable agriculture in the North Central Region. Established in 2002, it supports Master's and Ph.D. students at accredited institutions. Projects can last up to 36 months, and applicants may receive only one grant during their academic career. The program aims to promote innovative solutions to agricultural challenges and enhance sustainability practices in the region.

The Camp Roy-El Scholarship Endowment, established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, offers financial support to college juniors and seniors studying at Michigan-based institutions. This scholarship is aimed at students pursuing careers in fields that serve individuals with disabilities, such as nursing, occupational therapy, and social work. Applicants are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and previous applicants are encouraged to reapply, fostering ongoing support for dedicated students.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Gerstbrein/McCanna Scholarship for the Arts

After a long and rewarding career in Landscape Design and Art Education, Lisa Gerstbrein/McCanna wanted to promote the Arts and Industrial Arts in the community where she made her home and her livelihood. Her career brought her tremendous joy in pursuits that she loved as well as the satisfying reward of helping students find inspiration in the worlds of Art and Industrial Art. She is a true believer in the concept of STEAM based education. Accordingly, she established a fund to provide scholarships for the advanced education of advancing Senior High School Students in these areas who are residents of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania and are pursuing higher education in an approved program within 300 miles of their respective school - Armstrong High School, West Shamokin High School or Lenape Technical School. 

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Frank and Virginia Such Memorial Scholarship, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, honors two community pillars known for their dedication to education and family. This scholarship is aimed at local students pursuing a college education in teaching or education, with a focus on financial need. Eligible candidates must be at least juniors at a Michigan college, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. The application process is streamlined, allowing students to apply for multiple scholarships at once.

The Make/Shift Pitch Haus Competition, hosted by CultureSource, aims to celebrate Michigan's vibrant creative community by awarding four grants of $25,000 each. This initiative supports artists, makers, and cultural entrepreneurs who contribute to the state's identity and economic growth. Participants will utilize a versatile shipping container for various artistic activations, fostering collaboration and innovation. By investing in creative talents, Pitch Haus not only enhances cultural expression but also aids in talent retention and community development across Michigan.

Grand Traverse Regional Community FoundationThe Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.Helen and Dale Cropsey Scholarship Endowment (Leelanau County)Available to residents of the Suttons Bay or the Bingham area, including graduating high school seniors and students currently attending an accredited post secondary educational institution in the state of Michigan. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and attend church in the Suttons Bay or Bingham area. Priority will be given to students attending/planning to attend Michigan State University and who attend Immanuel Lutheran Church or First Lutheran Church. Previous recipients are eligible to apply.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Gauthier Family Fund Scholarship, established by Barbara Gauthier in 1998, supports high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area pursuing mechanical or electrical engineering studies at Michigan Technological University. Funded by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, this scholarship emphasizes academic achievement and financial need, ensuring deserving students receive the educational assistance they need to succeed in engineering fields.

The Delta Dental Foundation (DDF) aims to enhance oral health access and equity through strategic partnerships and funding initiatives. Established in 1980, the DDF focuses on underserved populations, promoting education, and addressing health disparities. The foundation prioritizes grants that align with its strategic plan, emphasizing oral health equity for people with disabilities. With a commitment to improving overall health, the DDF supports innovative programs and initiatives that ensure everyone has access to quality dental care.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The Hoffman Family Scholarship, established by Bud and Charyn Hoffman, supports first-generation college students from Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Fruitport high schools. The scholarship prioritizes applicants demonstrating financial need and maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA. Awardees will be considered for all foundation scholarships through a single application process. Preference is given to students planning to attend public universities or community colleges in Michigan, fostering educational opportunities for those who might be the first in their families to pursue higher education.

The David M. Dolan Scholarship, offered by the International Association for Great Lakes Research, supports master's and Ph.D. students engaged in applied environmental statistics and modeling related to the Great Lakes. The scholarship provides a $3,000 award, complimentary conference registration, and IAGLR membership. Recipients must present their research at the annual IAGLR conference. Eligibility is limited to those whose research aligns with Dr. Dolan's work, and previous awardees are not eligible.

The Greater Lake Superior Foundation Grant Program provides $2000 grants annually to support graduate research on Coaster Brook Trout in Lake Superior and its tributaries. Eligible applicants must be graduate students from accredited universities in Michigan, Minnesota, Ontario, or Wisconsin, focusing on Fisheries Management, Limnology, Ecology, or Biology. Research topics include habitat requirements, migratory behavior, and management activities. Recipients must submit a project summary for publication on the GLSF website.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Zonta–Ann Mapes Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available for women pursuing a degree in business, science, maritime, aviation, culinary or nursing, leading to career employment. Eligible students will be enrolled at a minimum as a junior in any state accredited college, or a NMC Baccalaureate program, with at least a 3.0 GPA, and be a resident of Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Kalkaska, or Antrim Counties.

The Watershed Council Grant Program, managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), invites proposals from watershed-based organizations to enhance organizational administration, conservation, and educational initiatives. With a total funding of $600,000 available, individual grants are capped at $40,000 for a 12-month period. Projects should focus on capacity building, water quality improvement, and community engagement to foster sustainable water resource management.

About MSHDA

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, provides financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.

MSHDA's loans and operating expenses are financed through the sale of tax-exempt and taxable bonds and notes to private investors, not from state tax revenues. Proceeds of the bonds and notes are loaned at below-market interest rates to developers of rental housing, and also fund home mortgages and home improvement loans. MSHDA also administers various federal housing programs.

Neighborhood Development Division

Purpose Statement

The Neighborhood Development Division (NDD) provides affordable housing solutions and opportunities to Michigan residents, neighborhoods and partners. Neighborhoods are a defined, community-based residential area where people live and share amenities and resources.

Our current programs include MI Neighborhood, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and MSHDA MOD. Our legacy programs include Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP), Small Scale Housing Rental Program (SHRP), Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy-Efficiency (MI-HOPE), and MSHDA Investing in Community Housing (MICH). These programs have been discontinued and have been rolled in the MI Neighborhood Program.

What is the MI Neighborhood Program?

MI Neighborhood (MIN) uses money from state (HCDF) and federal (CDBG) funds to support local housing needs. These grants help repair existing homes and build new affordable housing. Each community can use the money in ways that best meet its needs, either to improve a neighborhood or support larger regional goals.

The goal of the occupied rehabilitation funds is to keep current homes safe and in good condition. This home repair program can include small and large home repairs and updates for energy efficiency and accessibility.

The goal of the new unit funds is to help communities create more homes. This affordable housing program can include building new single‑family homes, small rental housing projects, and fixing empty homes.

About MSHDA

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, provides financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.

MSHDA's loans and operating expenses are financed through the sale of tax-exempt and taxable bonds and notes to private investors, not from state tax revenues. Proceeds of the bonds and notes are loaned at below-market interest rates to developers of rental housing, and also fund home mortgages and home improvement loans. MSHDA also administers various federal housing programs.

Neighborhood Development Division

Purpose Statement

The Neighborhood Development Division (NDD) provides affordable housing solutions and opportunities to Michigan residents, neighborhoods and partners. Neighborhoods are a defined, community-based residential area where people live and share amenities and resources.

Our current programs include MI Neighborhood, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and MSHDA MOD. Our legacy programs include Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP), Small Scale Housing Rental Program (SHRP), Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy-Efficiency (MI-HOPE), and MSHDA Investing in Community Housing (MICH). These programs have been discontinued and have been rolled in the MI Neighborhood Program.

What is the MI Neighborhood Program?

MI Neighborhood (MIN) uses money from state (HCDF) and federal (CDBG) funds to support local housing needs. These grants help repair existing homes and build new affordable housing. Each community can use the money in ways that best meet its needs, either to improve a neighborhood or support larger regional goals.

The goal of the occupied rehabilitation funds is to keep current homes safe and in good condition. This home repair program can include small and large home repairs and updates for energy efficiency and accessibility.

The goal of the new unit funds is to help communities create more homes. This affordable housing program can include building new single‑family homes, small rental housing projects, and fixing empty homes.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to a variety of scholarships designated to benefit a graduating senior from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). .

Tompkins Scholarship Endowment (Central, West, TC High)

The Tompkins Scholarship Endowment was established to provide scholarship awards to benefit graduates from Traverse City Area Public Schools. Awards will be based primarily on academic achievement without consideration of financial need. Individual scholarship awards are intended to be significant in nature and may be renewable for future years. To qualify, students must be attending a public, in-state college/university.

About MSHDA

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, provides financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.

MSHDA's loans and operating expenses are financed through the sale of tax-exempt and taxable bonds and notes to private investors, not from state tax revenues. Proceeds of the bonds and notes are loaned at below-market interest rates to developers of rental housing, and also fund home mortgages and home improvement loans. MSHDA also administers various federal housing programs.

Neighborhood Development Division

Purpose Statement

The Neighborhood Development Division (NDD) provides affordable housing solutions and opportunities to Michigan residents, neighborhoods and partners. Neighborhoods are a defined, community-based residential area where people live and share amenities and resources.

Our current programs include MI Neighborhood, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and MSHDA MOD. Our legacy programs include Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP), Small Scale Housing Rental Program (SHRP), Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy-Efficiency (MI-HOPE), and MSHDA Investing in Community Housing (MICH). These programs have been discontinued and have been rolled in the MI Neighborhood Program.

What is the MI Neighborhood Program?

MI Neighborhood (MIN) uses money from state (HCDF) and federal (CDBG) funds to support local housing needs. These grants help repair existing homes and build new affordable housing. Each community can use the money in ways that best meet its needs, either to improve a neighborhood or support larger regional goals.

The goal of the occupied rehabilitation funds is to keep current homes safe and in good condition. This home repair program can include small and large home repairs and updates for energy efficiency and accessibility.

The goal of the new unit funds is to help communities create more homes. This affordable housing program can include building new single‑family homes, small rental housing projects, and fixing empty homes.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The Northwest Michigan Osteopathic Scholarship, provided by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, supports MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine students who are in good standing and have ties to rural Northern Michigan. Established in 1992, the foundation is dedicated to fostering positive change in the region by supporting local causes like education, health services, and community development.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, supported by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to engage students and communities in tree planting and care. This initiative fosters greener campuses, enhances mental health, and promotes sustainability. By meeting five essential standards, institutions can gain recognition for their commitment to environmental stewardship, creating a lasting impact on the health of our planet and the well-being of students.

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Traverse City Tourism Hospitality Scholarship Fund (Benzie and Grand Traverse Counties)

Available to graduating high school seniors from Benzie or Grand Traverse Counties, or current NMC students pursuing degrees, industry certifications, or careers in hospitality or tourism-related studies. Preference given to those who are active in school and extracurricular activities, who have demonstrated community responsibility through volunteer efforts, and who have held jobs in the hospitality industry and are excited to continue. Financial need will be considered.

With support from Toyota Motor North America, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $250,000 in grant funding to make public lands more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities. The 2026 grant program will focus on communities near Toyota Motor North America facilities and is restricted to 16 communities, as detailed below. 

Overview

Through the 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands grant, NEEF aims to:

• Increase the capacity of local organizations and government agencies to address mobility and accessibility considerations on public lands; and
• Improve the level of access, comfort, and enjoyment experienced by public lands visitors of all abilities, together with their families and friends.

The grant will provide up to $20,000 per grantee to increase physical or digital access, provide adaptive recreation equipment or programming, or perform accessibility assessments on public lands in communities near 16 Toyota Motor North America facilities.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.