Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Alex Cooper Memorial Scholarship

The Alex Cooper Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in 2017 by Jonathan Culler, his high school classmate and teammate, Andrea Ault, his devoted mother who never left his side, and the River Valley Class of 2017, after he lost a 3-year battle to childhood cancer, osteosarcoma.     

The Cooper Fund supports seniors and graduates from the River Valley Local Schools district. Alex’s scholarship gives special consideration to students active in River Valley athletics, especially football or baseball, and/or music. To honor Alex’s untimely passing, the Cooper Fund seeks to assist students who have been diagnosed with cancer personally, those with an immediate family member with the disease, and those who demonstrate financial need resulting from cancer treatment.

Columbus Matrix Foundation Scholarship

Since the early days of print journalism, The Association for Women in Communications has evolved to become the overarching professional organization to unite communicators across a vast spectrum of disciplines-from print and broadcast journalism, to graphic design, photography, public relations, advertising, marketing, new media, and much more.

Award Amount:

• Up to four scholarships of $10,000 payable over four years at $2,500 per academic year.

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.

Homer FFA Alumni Scholarship Fund

Established in 1983 the Homer FFA Alumni is a support group for the Homer FFA chapter. The Homer FFA chapter was established in 1948. The Homer FFA Alumni Chapter focuses on premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Homer FFA Alumnus have received national recognition as an Outstanding Alumni Affiliate. The Homer FFA Alumni Scholarship was established in 2002. The Homer FFA Alumni highly encourage current FFA members to reach their fullest potential through furthering their education, beyond high school.

The Home Depot Foundation's Veteran Housing Grants Program aims to enhance the lives of U.S. veterans by funding the construction or rehabilitation of supportive housing. Grants, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with experience in veteran housing. Since 2011, the Foundation has committed over $550 million to veteran causes and seeks to invest an additional $750 million by 2030, focusing on projects in major cities across the U.S.

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.

Kristin & Michael Bauman Scholarship Fund

Kristin Bauman, as a teacher and consultant, taught hearing impaired students in Pennsylvania and Calhoun County, Michigan for over 30 years. She had lost the majority of her own hearing in her youth which served to motivate her to help others with this disability. After retiring, she was approached by a former hearing impaired student who as an adult, wished to return to college. Kristin was reminded of how difficult it was to find the financial resources to go to college. In researching the scholarships available to students with disabilities, she found there were few scholarships offered for students with disabilities especially within the Calhoun County, Michigan area. Students with hearing impairments have to work harder than most to not only obtain but succeed in higher education. Kristin and her family would like to help hearing impaired students, as well as their future teachers, make higher education a reality through this scholarship.

The Numotion Foundation Grants aim to enhance the lives of individuals with mobility disabilities by supporting IRS-designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. By fostering partnerships with various charities, including national and local organizations, the foundation raises awareness and funds for necessary research and support services. Contributions are made for each new wheelchair sold, ensuring a coordinated approach to charitable giving while prioritizing programs that specifically assist those with mobility-related challenges.

The Jacques Parker and Marie Deguard Scholarship, offered by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, supports high school seniors in the region pursuing higher education in visual arts or architecture. Scholarships are renewable for up to five years, covering costs for college, apprenticeships, or specialized courses. This initiative aims to promote economic mobility and provide opportunities for creativity, ensuring a lasting impact on students' lives in Berkshire, Columbia, northeast Dutchess, and northwest Litchfield counties.

The Saint Joseph Catholic Church Beatrice Knights of Columbus Council 1723 Scholarship aims to support deserving students in need of financial assistance for higher education. This scholarship is available for undergraduate studies and can be accessed within a five-year period if other funding exceeds the need. Candidates must be active members of the church, demonstrate academic achievement, financial need, and civic involvement. Applications are available at the church rectory office in February.

The Marion A. and Ruth K. Sherwood Family Scholarship Fund supports current college students from the Tri-Cities area, promoting academic achievement and community involvement. Funded by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, this scholarship emphasizes financial need and aims to assist students in continuing their education. Applicants must submit transcripts and additional documentation to demonstrate eligibility. This initiative reflects the Sherwoods' commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community betterment.

The Joanie Bostic Memorial Senior Pirate Spirit Award, established by the Decatur County Community Foundation, honors Joanie Bostic's passion for youth and Greensburg athletics. This scholarship recognizes a senior who exemplifies outstanding school spirit through participation in or support of athletics or music. Eligible candidates must be graduating seniors from Greensburg Community High School and submit a statement detailing their school experience and encouragement of Pirate spirit.

The NCCIH Natural Product Mid Phase Clinical Trial (R01 Clinical Trial Required) invites applications for clinical trials focused on natural products, such as botanicals and dietary supplements. Emphasizing scientific validity, the program seeks to evaluate optimal dosages and patient responses in a hypothesis-driven manner. Applications must include substantial preliminary data to assess bioavailability and confirm measurable impacts on target engagement. Key deadlines range from March 2024 to October 2026, ensuring timely submissions for interested researchers.

The St. Baldrick's Foundation Scholar (Career Development) Award supports early-career researchers dedicated to childhood cancer research. This three-year award, which can be extended for two additional years based on progress, provides up to $110,000 per year. Founded in 2000, the foundation has mobilized volunteers worldwide to raise funds through head-shaving events and various activities, all aimed at finding cures and improving survivors' lives.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation Summer Fellowship Award provides funding for undergraduate, graduate, or medical students to gain hands-on experience in pediatric oncology. With a stipend of $5,000 awarded to the mentor's institution, this fellowship supports the next generation of researchers dedicated to finding cures for childhood cancers. Since its inception, the foundation has mobilized volunteers through various fundraising events, fostering a community committed to transforming lives and advancing cancer research.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program aims to enhance juvenile drug treatment courts (JDTCs) across the U.S. by supporting states, local courts, and Tribal governments. This initiative focuses on improving outcomes for youth dealing with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health issues. The program underscores the commitment of the Office of Justice Programs to strengthen community safety and provide vital resources for effective intervention and support.

The Ruth Danley and William Enoch Moore Charitable Fund Grant is a private foundation based in Pittsburgh, established in 1992. It focuses on philanthropy, specifically supporting K-12 education for Native American children living on reservations. The foundation directs its grants primarily to regions preferred by donors, including several states in the Northeast and Midwest, aiming to improve educational opportunities and foster community development in underserved populations.

Michelle M. Vasenda Fund

Established in memory of Michelle M. Vasenda, a career nurse who lost her battle to breast cancer in 2009. It was her vision to create a scholarship to help those committed to helping others.

Amount: Varies

• $1,000-$2,000

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The BJA FY 2026 Veterans Treatment Court Program aims to enhance operations for veterans in the criminal justice system, focusing on reducing substance use, including opioids and alcohol. It integrates treatment for substance use and mental health disorders within a judicial framework, targeting high-risk veterans. This initiative not only addresses public safety concerns but also aims to provide necessary support and resources for veterans dealing with issues like PTSD and traumatic brain injury, fostering rehabilitation and recovery.

The NCCIH Natural Product Early Phase Clinical Trial Award (R33) invites applications for early phase clinical trials of natural products like botanicals and dietary supplements. This funding aims to support studies that assess the impact of these products on target engagement and clinical outcomes. The NOFO encourages innovative designs that optimize delivery methods and investigate combinations with existing treatments. With a maximum support period of three years, the initiative seeks to translate basic science findings into practical clinical applications.

The Tim Scott Scholarship, offered by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, supports students from high schools in St. Croix County, WI, and nearby areas who are committed to volunteerism. This scholarship recognizes the importance of giving back to the community and encourages students to engage in meaningful service. With a mission of fostering local generosity, the Foundation connects donors with impactful initiatives that enhance the wellbeing of the St. Croix Valley region.

The NCCIH Natural Product Early Phase Clinical Trial Phased Innovation Award (R61/R33) invites applications for early phase clinical trials focused on natural products. This funding opportunity supports research into botanicals and dietary supplements that show promise based on preliminary evidence. Successful trials can receive up to six years of funding to enhance understanding of pharmacokinetics and clinical impacts. Applications must aim to optimize product delivery and explore innovative combinations with other treatment approaches.

The RAK Education Foundation Scholarship provides financial assistance to residents of Camden, Chowan, Gates, Pasquotank, or Perquimans Counties who have earned a high school diploma or GED. This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees or certificates in Career and Technical Education fields such as trade education, computer science, business, health science, and more. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026, encouraging eligible students to apply.

The John Edelman Scholarship supports student veterans pursuing careers in mental health counseling, offering five scholarships of $10,000 each. This initiative, funded by Student Veterans of America, emphasizes the importance of mental health support for veterans. Eligible candidates must be enrolled as full-time students in the 2025-2026 academic year and maintain strong academic performance. The scholarship aims to reward exceptional achievement and encourage further study in disciplines that promote mental well-being.

The Barry Community Foundation supports programs and organizations that support and strengthen our community.

S.C. Blood Family Fund Grant

To fund projects dedicated to the agricultural heritage of the lives of Barry County residents, celebrating or supporting the legacy of family farms and our close-knit communities. Initiatives that benefit the Irving, Carlton, Woodland, and Castleton area will be considered.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Do It 4 Ur Kidz Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to head-of-household, single parents for post-secondary education to help them improve their lives and those of their children.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and amounts vary; paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Donor Information

A former St. John Fisher College professor who understood and greatly admired the hard work and challenges of single-parent students created this scholarship to support their higher education endeavors and to improve their employability, their lives, and the lives of their children.

The Richard H. and Ann M. Gerken Scholarship, established in 2013 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, aims to support qualified students pursuing post-secondary education in nursing or medicine. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hilton Head Island, graduating from a local high school with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enriching the lives of Lowcountry citizens through education and healthcare.

The Pediatric Lupus Research Grant aims to provide pilot funding for innovative research initiatives focusing on pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It supports various projects, including feasibility studies and the development of new methodologies or technologies. With a total funding of up to $90,000 for two projects over one year, this grant encourages collaborations and aims to significantly improve the lives of children affected by lupus in the U.S. and Canada.