Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFMC) empowers local initiatives through strategic grants aimed at fostering educational attainment, enhancing economic development, and promoting community trust. By supporting diverse projects, CFMC envisions a vibrant, inclusive future for Muskegon County, where every resident can thrive. The foundation prioritizes collaboration and opportunities for youth, ensuring that community voices are heard and valued, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for all.

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 Community Foundation of Greater Rochester offers general grants under $1000 to support nonprofit organizations in the Greater Rochester area. These grants aim to enhance quality of life by funding diverse projects in social services, education, health, arts, and more. The Foundation's 35 years of experience in philanthropy ensures a thorough assessment of community needs, allowing it to effectively link donors with impactful causes, ultimately fostering sustainable improvements in the community.

The Community Energy Management Program, administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), provides matching grants to local governments and tribes for energy management improvements. This initiative aims to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy implementation, aligning with Michigan's climate goals. Eligible projects include energy audits, efficiency upgrades, and community engagement efforts, with a total funding pool of $300,000 and a maximum award of $25,000 per applicant.

The HDR Foundation Grant Cycle supports community organizations aligned with HDR's values, focusing on education, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. This employee-funded initiative emphasizes the importance of employee engagement in grant proposals, requiring a clear scope of work and completion within a year. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments, while grants are not provided for faith-based organizations or individual support.

The Community Foundation of Greater Rochester offers grants over $1000 to support nonprofit organizations in the Greater Rochester area. With over 35 years of experience, the Foundation funds various initiatives including social services, health, education, and the arts. It aims to connect donors with meaningful causes and enhance community quality of life. Grant applications are open to tax-exempt organizations, while political campaigns are excluded from funding consideration.

The Investigator Initiated Research Grant Program, offered by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation, supports doctoral-level researchers addressing critical health-related research gaps. Eligible applicants include primary investigators with medical or doctoral-level credentials based in Michigan's nonprofit hospitals and universities. This program emphasizes evidence-based research to improve health outcomes while ensuring effective resource utilization, thereby enhancing healthcare access and quality for Michigan residents.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The EDA Chicago FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development through comprehensive planning and technical assistance. By supporting the development and implementation of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), EDA empowers designated organizations, including Indian Tribes, to create jobs and foster economic resilience in distressed areas. This initiative focuses on strategic investments to facilitate effective economic development practices, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity across regions.

Thome Aging Well Grant Program

As communities navigate rapid shifts in resources, rising housing and living costs, and other emerging challenges, this final round of Thome Aging Well funding aims to assist organizations that are supporting older adults through these uncertain times. These flexible, one-year grants are designed to bolster housing-based programs, services, and supports that safeguard the health, stability, and well-being of older adults during this moment of change.

Award

• Up to $200,000

This funding opportunity aims to provide flexible support to affordable housing organizations and past Enterprise Thome Aging Well grantees to respond to the urgent or emerging needs of their residents or clients with effective solutions. Eligible organizations must serve older adults (aged 55 and older) with lower incomes living in Michigan and Maryland.

Grants will have a one-year period of performance.

The High Priority HIV and Substance Use Research funding opportunity aims to support innovative research that addresses the intersection of HIV and substance use. Researchers are encouraged to submit proposals that include a detailed research plan and preliminary data, exploring new avenues for prevention, treatment, and potential cures for HIV among people who use drugs. Applications are due by 5 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior.

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.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Gene and Donna Mallak Memorial Scholarship

The Gene and Donna Mallak Memorial Scholarship was established by their daughter Jeanne in honor of the tremendous support they gave her to pursue her college dreams. Her hope is that this scholarship will provide the same support for those who receive this award to also pursue their dreams.

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 McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

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.

This Library Services and Technology Act grant program is designed to provide libraries with the opportunity to expand services for learning and access to information and/or to develop library services that provide all users access to information. The intent is to fund one-year projects that increase access to library collections and information. 

The F26AS00104 State ANS Management Plan 2026 aims to combat aquatic nuisance species through pre-proposals followed by full applications. Managed by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, this initiative requires a 25% cost-share and limits administrative costs to 5%. Applications are due by October 14, 2026, though the funding opportunity closes on December 16, 2026. The plan is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting a coordinated national approach to invasive species management.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Michigan State University Alumni Association of Saginaw County Scholarship

The Michigan State University Alumni Club of Saginaw County was established in the early 1960s and is associated with the National Michigan State University Alumni Association. From the beginning, the MSU Alumni Club of Saginaw County has had the following mission:

The MSU Alumni Club of Saginaw County, Michigan, shall act as an agency for the dissemination of information regarding the educational advantages of Michigan State University, support the activities of Michigan State University toward the realization of its educational program, in every way possible, including scholarships, and unite, for social purposes, those persons who are interested in the distinguished record and future enhancement of Michigan State University.

The Scholarship Fund itself has been awarding scholarships to MSU students from Saginaw County for over 20 years. Our scholarship recipients have gone on to notable careers in business, engineering, medicine, education, finance, law, social service, public service, manufacturing and a variety of other careers – all of which were “jump started” in part through the scholarship they received from the MSU Alumni Club of Saginaw County. Our proudest moments are when our scholarship recipients return to Saginaw County to work and live and, subsequently, join us as members of the MSU Alumni Club of Saginaw County to help in perpetuating the mission of our Club.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Margaret L. Palmer Scholarship

Margaret L. Palmer was born in Newberry, Michigan. She received her teaching certificate in 1927 from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Michigan. In 1956, Miss Palmer moved to Saginaw to teach first grade at North Elementary School. Retiring in 1974 after 46 years of service, Miss Palmer’s teaching made a difference in the lives of countless young people.

William H. Palmer established this scholarship in honor of his sister. “Education was so important to her,” remembered Bill, “I can still recall the opening days of school. Her enthusiasm was just bubbling. You couldn’t help but realize how teaching was more than just a job for her.”

“She influenced so many people. People still come up to me and tell me how Margaret made a difference in their lives or in the lives of someone they know. There were no bad youngsters as far as she was concerned. Good teachers like Margaret are necessary to inspire young minds. That’s why the Margaret L. Palmer Scholarship is designated for those interested in elementary education.”

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. 

Community Violence Intervention (CVI) is a non-punitive approach representing an evidence-informed suite of services that proactively engages individuals, groups, and/or communities with the highest likelihood of involvement in firearm violence.

Districts must use funding to contract with nonprofits, community-based organizations, subject matter experts, or other governmental entities to implement a plan to reduce or prevent youth violence. A plan to reduce or prevent youth violence implemented must use evidence-based practices, include mentorship and community engagement strategies, and may include, but is not limited to, increased academic, counseling, health, and wrap-around services to youth.

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.

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.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors Great Lakes Bay Region Scholarship

The mission of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors Great Lakes Bay (NAIFA-GLB), formerly Saginaw Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, is to promote an ethical business environment for those in the profession of providing financial security to the public and to serve its members through leadership and support of the Association.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors Great Lakes Bay Scholarship was established to reflect the Association’s strong commitment to higher education and the importance of giving back to the communities it serves.

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.