Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Michigan

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.

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.

The Tompkins Scholarship Endowment supports graduates from Traverse City Area Public Schools, emphasizing academic achievement over financial need. Established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities for local students attending public, in-state colleges or universities. The foundation, active since 1992, works to enhance the community by providing significant, potentially renewable scholarships, reflecting its commitment to positive change across the Grand Traverse region.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Dr. Tai Afrik Memorial Scholarship

• Graduating senior, graduating early college student, or current college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Holland High School, Holland Christian, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, Zeeland West, or the Careerline Tech Center
• Enrolling/enrolled at Grand Valley State University
• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM)
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater
• Student of color
• This scholarship is potentially renewable and supports one student at a time. 

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

The Ernest B. Isaacsen Scholarship Endowment, established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to graduating seniors from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties. Eligible students must plan to attend institutions such as Northwestern Michigan College, Michigan State University, University of Michigan, or Wayne State University and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to support local youth in achieving their academic goals.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Grace Piersma Memorial Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Enrolling at Hope College
• Financial need, a consideration (encouraged to supply the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• Planning to major in dance, music, athletic training, business or a major closely related to any of these (for example: management, economics, or kinesiology)

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.

The Andrew Mozola Scholarship, funded by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), supports undergraduate students majoring in geology. This scholarship helps cover college education costs and promotes student engagement with AIPG. Eligible applicants must be AIPG student members, have a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5 in their major, and be sophomores or higher. AIPG has been advocating for geoscientists since 1963.

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.

The GPCAH Community Pilot Grant supports innovative research and outreach aimed at enhancing the health and safety of agricultural workers in the Midwest. Funded by NIOSH, this program encourages projects focusing on critical issues like mental health, injury prevention, and chemical safety. With grants up to $30,000, it invites collaboration from various organizations, particularly those within the nine-state region. Special emphasis is placed on proposals addressing the needs of underrepresented groups in agriculture.

The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, led by The Minneapolis Foundation, supports community-based nonprofits in the Great Lakes region. With a focus on underserved communities, grants will total $40 million over three years, aiming to enhance environmental health, education, and resilience. The program prioritizes applications from federally recognized tribes and organizations with limited budgets, fostering inclusive community engagement and sustainable development. Eligible projects include environmental assessments, public health initiatives, and job training.

The Lawrence C. Hazen, D.O. Scholarship Fund, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports students pursuing a medical degree in Michigan. This fund honors Dr. Hazen's legacy of community service and commitment to healthcare. Eligible candidates include residents of the Great Lakes Bay and Thumb regions, enrolled full-time in medical or osteopathic schools. Scholarships typically range from $500 to $4,000, aiding aspiring healthcare professionals in achieving their educational goals.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Michigan offers essential funding to rural areas for developing community facilities. This program supports public bodies, non-profit organizations, and federally recognized tribes in improving services like healthcare, education, and safety. Eligible areas include communities with populations under 20,000. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, depending on community income levels, ensuring that smaller, lower-income communities receive the assistance they need for vital infrastructure improvements.

Most state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural Michigan can access funding through USDA: Rural Development to build or improve water and waste systems. Grants support drinking water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater projects, which may benefit schools and districts planning facility upgrades alongside teacher-focused initiatives.

The Worthington Family Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to the arts and environmental initiatives benefiting children and young adults. Established in honor of Betty J. O'Leary, this foundation aims to carry on her legacy of intellectual curiosity and community service. Through its annual funding, it seeks to empower organizations that foster creativity and environmental stewardship, ensuring a positive impact on future generations.

The Great Lakes Stewardship Grant aims to enhance awareness and understanding of the Great Lakes' ecology, empowering residents to advocate for sustainable fisheries. This program invites proposals focused on place-based stewardship education, with a notable RFP planned for 2025, alongside another for fishing education. The next RFP for place-based education is set for release in 2027, ensuring ongoing support for community engagement and stewardship initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations working on voting rights and democracy access in Michigan can access funding through Public Wise to support unrestricted operational needs. Grants may benefit civic education or democracy-focused programs run by educators or education nonprofits, especially efforts expanding ballot access and building power in BIPOC communities.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Huntington Impact Investment Philanthropy Grant Program aims to strengthen communities by supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance self-sufficiency and social equality. With a focus on areas such as community revitalization, affordable housing, and economic development, the program prioritizes initiatives that serve low- and moderate-income individuals. Organizations with IRS tax-exempt status can apply for funding to address critical community needs, fostering a more equitable environment for all.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

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

Kuznar Family Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Sheryl Kuznar, who established the Kuznar Family Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship is for a Muskegon County high school graduate pursuing any degree within the state of Michigan.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and a vibrant Southeast Michigan community. Since its inception, it has invested over $180 million in environmental, cultural, and educational initiatives. As it transitions to spend down its assets by 2034, the Foundation aims to make bold, impactful investments that address urgent community needs and promote sustainable development.

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.

Dr. J. Max Elizabeth Busard Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dr. J. Max and Elizabeth Busard, who established the Dr. J. Max and Elizabeth Busard Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Following a distinguished medical career spanning decades, Dr. Max Busard and his wife made a commitment to support students pursing a medical degree at the University of Michigan Medical School, Dr. Busards' alma mater. The Dr. J. Max and Elizabeth Busard Scholarship will be available to residents of Muskegon and Ottawa counties who have graduated from any post-secondary institution and are attending the U of M Medical School. Dr. Busard worked at Hackley Hospital from 1949-1989 and also as medical director of Hospice of Muskegon-Oceana for 14 years. Following a distinguished medical career spanning decades, Dr. Max Busard and his wife made a commitment to support students pursing a medical degree at the University of Michigan Medical School, Dr. Busards' alma mater. The Dr. J. Max and Elizabeth Busard Scholarship Fund will be available to residents of Muskegon and Ottawa counties who have graduated from any post-secondary institution and are attending the U of M Medical School. "This is something I have been thinking about for quite awhile," says Dr. Busard. Dr. Busard worked at Hackley Hospital from 1949-1989 and also as medical director of Hospice of Muskegon-Oceana for 14 years.

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.