Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

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)

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 Michigan Competitive Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing their first degree, focusing on financial need and merit. To qualify, applicants must achieve a minimum SAT score of 1200 and file the FAFSA by July 1. Eligible institutions include public universities and non-profit colleges in Michigan. This scholarship aims to increase access to higher education for residents while ensuring students meet specific eligibility criteria, including citizenship and enrollment status.

The Midwest Culture Bearers Award honors and supports nine folk arts practitioners annually, providing each with a $5,000 unrestricted grant. This initiative aims to amplify the essential work of culture bearers across the Midwest, fostering opportunities for recognition and community connection. By prioritizing traditional practices and knowledge sharing, the award not only celebrates cultural heritage but also strengthens the creative roots of the region, ensuring vibrant artistic expression for future generations.

The Growing Justice Fund provides grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 to support community-led initiatives that enhance equitable food procurement. This initiative aims to empower Tribal, Indigenous, Black, Latinx, Asian, and immigrant communities by facilitating access to institutional contracts and promoting local economic viability. With a focus on health, environmental justice, and collective action, these grants are designed to foster sustainable food systems and build wealth in historically marginalized communities.

The Fostering Futures Scholarship, administered by the Michigan Education Trust, offers financial assistance to former foster youth in Michigan who have experienced foster care after age 13. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, possess a high school diploma, and enroll at least half-time in a participating institution. This program aims to support the educational pursuits of students who have faced significant challenges, ensuring they have access to higher education opportunities.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The George G. Johnson Scholarship Fund, established in 2021, aims to support African American male undergraduates at Wayne State University's Mike Illitch School of Business who are pursuing degrees in accounting or finance. Funded by Mr. George Johnson, an esteemed alumnus and successful entrepreneur, this scholarship reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering diversity within the field. It stands as a testament to Mr. Johnson's legacy and dedication to empowering future leaders.

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Humane Organization Grant Program 

Mission

To enhance the quality of life of shelter/ rescue animals and to increase their chances for adoption. 

The St. Croix Valley Foundation (SCVF) Humane Organization grant program funded by the Compassionate Animal Fund, is accepting applications (invitation only) from Managed Open Admission humane organizations located in the upper Midwest. The grants, ranging up to $3,000, can cover items on your “wish list” including food, supplies, infrastructure needs, and veterinary cost. 

Funding Criteria

Grants are intended to provide funds for items such as food, supplies, medicine, spay/neuter programs (for in-house animals to aid in adoption) newsletters, or other needs and/or programs that most benefit the humane organization.

​We understand that shelters may differ in the services or alternatives they offer during the waiting period prior to intake. If your facility is at capacity, you must provide a clear statement outlining how emergency surrenders and stray animals are handled, including the procedures your organization follows to operate as an Open Admission shelter.  

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.

Randy Boileau Storyteller Scholarship

• Graduating senior who resides within the primary service area of the Community Foundation or in Hamilton
• Enrolling at Aquinas College, Calvin University, Ferris State University, Hope College, or Grand Valley State University
• GPA of 3.5 or greater
• Majoring in marketing, advertising, public relations, journalism, video production, graphic design, or a related subject
• 1,200-character or less answer to this question: How might you use narrative to create understanding and build community in your future career?

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

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

Richard and Betty Cawein Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dick and Betty Cawein, who established the Richard and Betty Cawein Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. In nearly 48 years of marriage, Dick and Betty Cawein had 28 different addresses but they found their way back to the place they really loved, their hometown of Muskegon. After a career in the Navy, Dick was a shop teacher at Mona Shores. Betty was involved with St. Jean?s Church and the Muskegon Garden Club, but they both felt very strongly about education. Dick passed away in 1993 and Betty in 2015, but their love for Muskegon and their passion for education lives on in the Richard and Betty Cawein Scholarship Fund, created with a bequest from Betty?s trust. It will help support students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree who are doing two years at MCC and then going on to one of Michigan's public colleges/universities or Notre Dame or Duke.

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.

Samuel Meengs Scholarship

• Graduating senior from one of the following high schools: Black River, Calvary Schools of Holland, Holland Christian, Holland High School, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at Hope College
• Financial need, a consideration (encouraged to submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 4.0 or greater
• Involvement in high school sports, music, or the arts preferred
• This scholarship is potentially renewable and supports one student at a time.

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.

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.

John and Ruth Schrier Hope College 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.

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.

J. Dean and Carolyn L. Owen (Carolee) Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of J. Dean Owen, their family and friends in memory of his wife Carolee Owen. Carolee was a dedicated community volunteer and this fund will provide scholarships to graduates of Muskegon County High Schools who are planning on attending a college or university within the state of Michigan. In 2015 J. Dean passed away. The family and friends of J. Dean and Carolee Owen can be assured that hundreds of young people, for years to come, will benefit from this fund established in her memory.

The Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Melbourne & Alice E. Frontjes Scholarship

Open to students who are residents of Kent County for 3+ years, attending CMU, WMU, GRCC, MSU or U-M and with a minimum 2.75 GPA.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Scholarships

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

John T. & Frances J. Maghielse Scholarship

Open to full time, second year or higher undergraduate students who are residents of Kent County and are graduates of a Grand Rapids Public Schools high school attending a college in the state of Michigan studying education and with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

The Delta Dental Foundation's Community Mini Grants provide up to $10,000 to local nonprofits promoting oral health care in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These grants focus on enhancing access to dental care for at-risk populations, educating communities about oral health, and supporting innovative programs. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with strategic aims and the ability to achieve impactful results. This initiative seeks to improve community health through dedicated funding and support for effective oral health programs.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Scholarships

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

John M. and Alicent Epps Jasperse Scholarship

Open to residents of Kent County for 2+ years, attending Grand Rapids Community College with a minimum 2.5 GPA.

The Delta Dental Foundation provides in-kind dental donations, including educational materials and hygiene products, to support organizations in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These donations aim to promote oral health awareness and equity among underserved communities. Interested organizations should plan ahead, as applications are reviewed after the submission period closes. Supplies may be limited, and quantity restrictions may apply. For more information, preview available materials through the Foundation's website.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Reach for Your Goal Scholarship

Open to students who are Kent County residents attending college in the state of Michigan and with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

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.

University of Michigan Club of Holland Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Calvary Schools of Holland, Fennville, Hamilton, Holland Christian, Holland High School, Saugatuck, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• 1,700-character or less response to this prompt: Please explain why the University of Michigan is your first choice and discuss your educational goals and intended major

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) strives to promote better health outcomes, reduce health risks, and support stable and safe families while encouraging self-sufficiency.

Crime Victim Services Commission (CVSC) Compensation Program

The Crime Victim Services Commission (CVSC) Compensation Program may help crime victims and their families with the financial costs of crime. We may cover costs including medical and dental treatment, non-medical remedial treatment, counseling, funeral expenses, crime scene cleanup, grief counseling, residential security, relocation expenses, transportation, loss of earnings or support, and other necessary services not paid by other sources. The program is administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.