Best Monroe County Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

Woman in Philanthropy Endowment Fund

G.R.O.W

Nationwide, women are increasingly influential in family decisions about charitable giving. Recognizing this, the Community Foundation of Monroe County, through a group of dedicated women, has established G.R.O.W. Monroe.

Giving Represents Our Women is a philanthropic women’s organization which supports women & children organizations throughout the community. The group unites powerful, visionary women who are committed to provide lasting, fundamental change in the community and to help area women and children make better lives for themselves.

Our Purpose

To ensure that women have the information we need to be effective philanthropists. To financially support organizations that can provide a better life for women and help to promote a better future for our children. To keep members informed of the issues in our community that are currently affecting these individuals and to become an active participant in changing those situations. Currently we are involved with the issue of human trafficking and focusing on ways to help combat this endemic problem.

Grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to projects serving women and children in Monroe County. We are seeking impactful, community-driven initiatives that create meaningful change at the local level.

Grassroots arts organizations and artist-led groups in Monroe County, Michigan and nearby Southeast Michigan counties can receive US $2,000 - US $3,000 to deepen creative work tied to community wellbeing. CultureSource funds projects where arts programming intersects with issues like mental health, food justice, cultural exchange, policy change, or water quality through cross-sector partnerships.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering sustainable business growth in Southeast Michigan. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, the Foundation supports initiatives that leverage funding to create favorable conditions for small businesses. By promoting networking and resource sharing, and diversifying industries, they aim to enhance regional resilience. Since 2008, over $180 million has been awarded to initiatives aligned with their mission, with plans to spend down all assets by 2034 to facilitate impactful investments.

Assisting Our Neighbors In Need

We are investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. We award grants for capital funding and innovative projects and campaigns that align with our priorities for each.

Grant seekers are encouraged to review our priorities and ensure projects/programs align with the outcomes we seek. Metrics related to outcomes will be requested within the grant application.

What type of projects does the Consumers Energy Foundation fund?

The Consumers Energy Foundation funds capital projects and provides program and operation support in alignment with our commitment to Michigan’s people, planet and prosperity. Our priorities include reducing poverty levels/ALICE numbers in Michigan by focusing on basic needs, education and workforce readiness; protecting/preserving Michigan’s land, water & air; and economic development by focusing on neighborhood revitalization, job growth, and arts and culture.

Check Your Grant Request Against These Standards: People; Planet; and Prosperity

Grant Priorities: Planet

Will your project/program protect/preserve or restore land, freshwater bodies, or air quality in Michigan?

Land, Water & Air

The Consumers Energy Foundation is dedicated to ensuring Michigan has world-class natural resources by funding programs and organizations that strengthen environmental stewardship, preserve the natural beauty of Michigan and reduce environmental impact when natural resources are used.  

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation supports organizations in Southeast Michigan and Metropolitan Denver focused on improving lives through health, youth, and animal welfare initiatives. They offer grants for project development, capital expenses, and unique circumstances. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that address underserved community needs, ensuring sustainable impact and enhanced access to essential services. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate non-discriminatory practices in their operations.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

The Sylvania Franciscan Foundation Fund offers grants to support initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking, assisting immigrants and refugees, and promoting social justice. The fund also aligns with Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ call for environmental stewardship. Eligible projects may include survivor support services, community engagement, and ecological education. Notably, faith-based organizations that limit service to their members or engage in lobbying are ineligible for funding. This foundation prioritizes systemic solutions that foster dignity and opportunity for underserved communities.

Michigan Afterschool Partnership 

The Michigan Afterschool Partnership (MASP) is the statewide voice and coordinating hub for out-of-school time programs that support Michigan’s young people, families, and communities. MASP brings together education leaders, youth-serving organizations, businesses, philanthropy, and policymakers to strengthen and expand high-quality afterschool and summer learning opportunities across the state. By aligning local efforts with statewide strategy, sharing best practices, and elevating data-driven insights, MASP helps ensure out-of-school time programs are effective, sustainable, and responsive to community needs—supporting youth success, working families, and Michigan’s future workforce.

With Youth For Youth (WYFY) Grant Opportunity for Southeast Michigan

Grant Opportunity & Funding Priorities

Beginning in 2026, the Southeast Michigan WYFY Advisory Council will distribute just over $2 million in grants to support out-of-school time and youth sports programs that incorporate youth voice, equitable access, and systems-level improvements. Funding decisions will be made by the Southeast Michigan Advisory Council using a structured review process designed by young people.

To meaningfully increase youth voice across funded programs, proposals should demonstrate how youth input and leadership are embedded in program structure, culture and decision-making. Priority will be given to programs that demonstrate the following funding priorities:

• Equity ensures all youth are centered, youth’s specific identities are considered and there is an unbiased distribution of resources for youth in programming.
• Safety as emotional, relational, in programming, and a created space of belonging.
• Tangible Resources, ensure tangible supports that remove barriers to participation, such as transportation, food, youth stipends, and materials.
• The need for youth to experience both Learning and Enjoyment in the program.
• Preparation for a future where young people can thrive.
• The Role Adults Play by being adult allies who listen, support, and share power with young people.
• Youth Voice & Leadership as a non-negotiable experience for all young people in the program.

What is Out-of-School Time?

For the purposes of this application, out-of-school time (OST) is defined as any youth-serving program that supports young people outside the traditional school day (e.g., before and after school and/or during summer). Examples are as follows, but not limited to:

• Youth Sports
• Arts, Culture, and Enrichment
• Leadership Development and Civic Engagement
• Youth Workforce and Career Readiness
• Library and Recreation Program
• Prevention and Restorative Initiatives

We believe these programs operate in a wide range of settings, including community-based 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, early childhood centers, and faith-based programs, collectively forming a critical part of Michigan’s youth-serving infrastructure. 

Programs must:

• Serve youth ages 5–18
• Operate in Southeast Michigan (Livingston, Wayne, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne)
• Provide programming outside the traditional school day

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Old National Bank Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations for community impact initiatives across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Focused on four key areas—Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Financial Empowerment—the foundation prioritizes programs that support underrepresented communities. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation’s funding priorities to qualify for grants, which can be applied for every two years.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Toledo Walleye Transportation Fund offers grants to accredited schools and nonprofit organizations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, facilitating transportation to Toledo Mud Hens baseball or Walleye hockey games. Aiming to eliminate financial barriers, the fund provides awards up to $1,000 for eligible applicants. Schools and nonprofits can receive one transportation award for each game annually, promoting enriching experiences for students and communities.

ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.

The Jean Griswold Foundation

The Jean Griswold Foundation (JGF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Caregivers through educational opportunities and scholarships. 

Our Mission

The mission of the Jean Griswold Foundation is to support Caregivers by providing educational scholarships* to enable them to further their training, enhance their careers, and better assist the clients they serve.

By offering educational scholarships*, our Foundation will not only make a positive impact on the Caregivers themselves, but also the clients they assist and the home healthcare agencies where they are employed, as well as help advance the overarching home-care industry.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the federally accredited educational institutions of the winning Scholars’ choosing.

Empowering Caregivers Through Education

The Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship Program awards scholarships to deserving Caregivers who wish to further their education in a care-related field. Applicants do not have to be associated with Griswold in any way, and the funds will be paid directly to the institution where the caregiver will be receiving education.  

Our Winter 2026 Scholarship Application period is now open! Applications will be accepted until 11:59pm ET August 31, 2026. Join our email list to get the first notice of all Scholarship happenings.  

Where would we be without Caregivers? 

Their selflessness is astounding, yet they are often overlooked and underappreciated. 

The Jean Griswold Foundation is dedicated to supporting Caregivers, the backbone of the care industry. We provide educational scholarships so Care Professionals can further their training, enhance their skills, elevate their careers, and better assist the people they serve.

The Flourish Fund Grant, offered by CultureSource, supports innovative and experimental artist-led projects in Southeast Michigan. With annual funding of six $10,000 grants, the program encourages public engagement and collaboration among independent artists. Eligible projects should have a strong visual arts foundation and involve a public component, while ineligible projects include those led by students or existing incorporated entities. This initiative aims to foster creativity and cultural development in the region.

Monroe County, Michigan 501(c)(3) nonprofits and other tax-exempt organizations can access funding for community-focused projects, including youth sports, parks and trails, caregiver support, education, and entrepreneurship. The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation concentrates its giving in Southeast Michigan, seeking creative, collaborative initiatives that address significant local needs and strengthen long-term economic and social vitality.

The Community Foundation of Monroe County aims to enhance the quality of life in the region through strategic grant-making. With a vision for a thriving community, the Foundation prioritizes stewardship, local impact, and inclusivity. It focuses on education, health, and community enrichment initiatives to address pressing issues like opioid mortality and access to arts. The Foundation supports innovative collaborations that engage diverse community members, ensuring long-lasting benefits for Monroe County residents.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Monroe County, Michigan can receive up to US $50,000 for implementation projects advancing the county’s Community Health Improvement Plan. With a mission to strengthen local wellbeing, Community Foundation of Monroe County supports youth health, chronic disease prevention, and social determinants of health, prioritizing collaborative, multi-partner efforts.

The DTE Energy Foundation Tree Planting Grants, supported by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, aim to enhance tree planting efforts across public lands within DTE Energy's service area. This initiative encourages local governments, schools, and nonprofits to engage in sustainable tree planting projects to foster environmental stewardship and community revitalization. By focusing on properly planted and maintained trees, the program seeks to protect natural resources and promote a greener future for all.

The Old National Bank Foundation provides sponsorships to enhance community initiatives in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Their mission focuses on social responsibility, supporting underrepresented groups, and aligning with the Community Reinvestment Act. Sponsorships cover events such as fundraisers and sporting events, emphasizing active engagement and measurable impact. The Foundation aims to improve quality of life through strategic partnerships and meaningful contributions.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The CFSM Youth Leadership Grants support youth-led programs that empower young people to take leadership roles within their communities in southeast Michigan. Established in 1991, this initiative encourages youth participation in grant proposal reviews and has funded over $1.8 million in youth-serving grants. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $20,000, fostering partnerships and enhancing young people's awareness of critical local issues. Applications are reviewed by the Youth Advisory Committee, ensuring youth voices are central to the decision-making process.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Michigan Coastal Management Program Grant aims to foster resilient coastal communities by funding projects that protect sensitive resources and promote biodiversity. With approximately $1,000,000 available, the grant encourages initiatives that enhance public access, mitigate coastal hazards, and support diversity and equity within communities. It emphasizes the importance of community engagement and technical training to address climate change impacts and improve resilience through innovative solutions.

The Consumers Energy Foundation Grant aims to assist Michigan communities by funding innovative projects that enhance people's lives, protect the environment, and promote economic prosperity. Eligible applicants must align their initiatives with the foundation's focus areas, which include reducing poverty, environmental preservation, and economic development. Notably, the foundation primarily supports tax-exempt organizations based in Michigan, while also considering projects that significantly benefit the state. Applicants are encouraged to review eligibility criteria and grant standards before applying.