Best Wayne County Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The Lanny Wilde Scholarship, offered by the WMU Department of Sociology, supports undergraduate students who are currently employed as WMU Public Safety Officers and enrolled in a Criminal Justice Program. With a total award of $500 per semester, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden on dedicated students pursuing higher education. Nominations are forwarded by the Director of WMU Public Safety to Dr. Zoann Snyder by February 1st each year.

The Georgia E. Doles Walker Emergency Grant at Western Michigan University provides crucial financial assistance to undergraduate sociology students facing unexpected expenses. This grant, up to $500, is designed to alleviate financial burdens by covering costs for books, supplies, or travel related to education. However, it is important to note that funds cannot be used for tuition or fees. Preference is given to applicants who contribute to the diversity and multiculturalism of the university community.

The WMU Department of Political Science offers the United Nations/Kalamazoo Chapter Scholarship Award to outstanding undergraduates majoring in International and Comparative Politics. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence and considers factors like extracurricular involvement and study abroad participation. Eligible candidates must be in their junior or senior year and have completed at least one year of study at WMU. Preference is given to students with a record of activism and international engagement.

The Peter Renstrom Prize, established in 2006 at Western Michigan University, honors a senior political science student intending to attend law school. Named after Dr. Peter Renstrom, an expert in constitutional law, this award recognizes academic excellence, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. The prize aims to support students from any department, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering future leaders in law and public service.

The Kourdie-Elshafei Scholarship provides $2500 to undergraduate students in Western Michigan University's Political Science Department. Established by alumna Touline Kourdie Elshafei, this scholarship aims to support students with a minimum GPA of 3.15 who demonstrate financial need and have junior or senior status. Preference is given to first-generation college students and those overcoming socio-economic hardships, fostering opportunities for individuals from urban high schools.

The Dr. Claude and Nancy Phillips Dissertation Research Award at Western Michigan University provides up to $500 annually to support doctoral students in political science with their dissertation research. Applicants must submit a two-to-three page statement detailing their research plans and a budget for the intended use of funds. To be eligible, students must be in good standing and have achieved candidacy before the application deadline of February 1.

The Martin Luther King/César Chavez/Rosa Parks Future Faculty Fellowship at Western Michigan University aims to support academically or economically disadvantaged doctoral candidates in their final dissertation stage. Established in 1986, this fellowship provides financial aid averaging around $33,000 to help students complete their degrees. Recipients must fulfill a three-year teaching or administrative obligation at a postsecondary institution in Michigan, ensuring a commitment to education and community service.

The Cancer Center Support Grants (CCSGs) aim to bolster NCI-Designated Cancer Centers through funding that supports diverse research activities. These grants enhance comprehensive, clinical, and basic cancer research while fostering collaboration among institutions. The program prioritizes interdisciplinary approaches to advance cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately reducing cancer's impact on public health. CCSGs also facilitate resource sharing, administrative support, and the development of innovative research initiatives.

The Native Performing Arts Fellowship (NPA) supports Native artists in enhancing their craft through grants of up to $10,000. This fellowship prioritizes personal artistic development over project-based funding, encouraging applicants to focus on growth through classes, workshops, and professional mentorship. Eligible candidates must be U.S.-based, 18 years or older, and enrolled members of recognized tribes. The program emphasizes Indigenous values in performing arts, fostering resilience and cultural expression.

The Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Award honors Native artists who have dedicated their lives to sharing cultural knowledge and ancestral gifts. With a grant of $50,000, this award supports artists deeply rooted in their communities, fostering healing and resilience. Nominations are open for practicing artists across various mediums, including music, dance, and storytelling, ensuring the continuation of Indigenous traditions and the enrichment of Native culture.

The Cultural Capital Fellowship offers $10,000 grants to Native artists and culture bearers dedicated to community outreach and cultural preservation. This fellowship strengthens the Collective Spirit of First Peoples artists, emphasizing the importance of passing on ancestral knowledge and maintaining cultural sharing. Eligible applicants must have strong ties to their Native community and be committed to sustaining cultural practices. The fellowship aims to support those who promote generosity, wisdom, and integrity within their communities.

The Artist in Business Leadership (ABL) Fellowship supports Native artists in building sustainable art-centered businesses. This yearlong program provides $10,000 in funding along with professional development and networking opportunities. Eligible applicants must be 18 years or older, reside in the U.S., and be enrolled in or have lineage from a federally recognized tribe. The fellowship aims to empower artists to thrive within their communities while honoring their cultural heritage.

The MASOT Conney W. Berger Jr. Memorial Graduate Student Award, established in honor of a dedicated toxicologist, supports doctoral students in toxicology/pharmacology. Eligible candidates must present at the MASOT meeting and meet specific criteria, including GPA requirements and MASOT membership. This award, valued at $500, encourages academic excellence and is made possible through the generous support of SafeBridge Consultants, Inc.

The Jeanette Zaichkin NRP Nursing Grant for Excellence and Innovation in NRP Education supports nurses dedicated to enhancing neonatal resuscitation training. This grant, offered by the American Academy of Pediatrics, provides up to $10,000 for innovative projects addressing key gaps in transitional physiology and evidence-based practices. Eligible applicants must be current NRP Instructors and work in neonatal care settings. The initiative aims to empower nurses in teaching essential skills for successful newborn resuscitation.

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

The William Coon Jr. Scholarship, offered by the USACFA, provides four $2,500 awards annually for students with cystic fibrosis pursuing degrees in various fields. Applications require transcripts, proof of enrollment, and essays, focusing on financial need and academic performance. Winners receive full or half awards based on their enrollment status. This scholarship honors Bill Coon Jr.'s legacy, supporting individuals facing similar health challenges and promoting their educational aspirations.

The Wag Wine Operation supports no-kill adoption groups by providing grants ranging from $250 to $1000. These funds assist organizations in purchasing essential supplies, food, and medical care for adoptable pets. Offered by the Petfinder Foundation, this initiative aims to keep homeless animals healthy and facilitate their transition to loving homes. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, with the program benefiting over 10,000 adoption groups across North America.

The What’s Your Gap Grant, provided by BreatheStrong CF in partnership with the Closing the Gap Foundation, supports teens and adults living with cystic fibrosis. This grant alleviates financial barriers, allowing recipients to pursue health and wellness opportunities tailored to their individual goals. It aims to empower applicants who envision a healthier lifestyle but face challenges in achieving it, serving as a catalyst for positive change in their lives.

The Loretta Morris Memorial Grants support individuals with cystic fibrosis in California who wish to engage in physical activities such as swimming, horseback riding, dance, or golf. Established in memory of Loretta Morris, this fund aims to help recipients enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. Applications are welcomed from both children and adults, promoting inclusivity and well-being within the CF community. Note that certain items, like memberships or accessories, are not eligible for funding.

The Robert P. Wadell Transportation Engineering Scholarship, established in 2022 by Robert P. Wadell, P.E., MSCE, F.ASCE, supports undergraduate students in civil engineering with a focus on transportation. Funded through the ASCE Foundation, the scholarship aims to aid up to two deserving students annually with tuition and fees. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens enrolled in an ABET-accredited program and members of the ASCE. Preference is given to those in their final two years of study.

The Robert B. B. and Josephine N. Moorman Scholarship, established in 2008 by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), provides financial support for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in civil engineering or related fields. This scholarship honors Robert B.B. Moorman, a dedicated civil engineering professor. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in an ABET-accredited program and maintain good standing with ASCE. This award aims to alleviate tuition costs for deserving students committed to the civil engineering profession.

The Paul Drury Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Paul Drury, who inspired many while living with cystic fibrosis. This scholarship is aimed at siblings and children of individuals with CF, recognizing the crucial support family members provide. Eligible applicants must have a family member with CF, demonstrate academic achievement, and be enrolled in an educational program. This initiative highlights the importance of family in managing the challenges posed by cystic fibrosis.

The Lawrence W. & Francis W. Cox Scholarship, established by Mrs. Wahneta T. Hinrichs in 2008, honors the legacy of her husband and father-in-law. This scholarship is awarded annually to one undergraduate civil engineering student enrolled in an ABET-accredited program. It aims to support students with tuition expenses, furthering their education in civil engineering disciplines, thus contributing to the profession's growth and sustainability.

The John Lenard Civil Engineering Scholarship, established in 2008 by John Lenard, P.E., F.ASCE, supports undergraduate students pursuing civil engineering with a focus on water supply or environmental engineering. The scholarship aims to assist deserving students in covering tuition expenses. Awarded annually, it is limited to two recipients who demonstrate commitment to their field. The American Society of Civil Engineers, founded in 1852, oversees this scholarship, fostering excellence in civil engineering education.

The Eugene C. Figg, Jr. Civil Engineering Scholarship, established by Figg Engineering Group in 2002, honors the legacy of Gene Figg, who was renowned for his artistic bridge designs. This scholarship aims to support undergraduate civil engineering students with a passion for bridge design and construction, facilitating their education in an ABET-accredited program. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens and Student Members of the American Society of Civil Engineers in good standing.

The CF Foundation/NIH K-Unfunded Award aims to support exceptional research projects in cystic fibrosis (CF) that have been approved by the NIH but lack funding. This award provides temporary financial assistance of up to $80,000 per year for two years to ensure that promising CF research continues without interruption. The initiative focuses on fostering a new generation of researchers dedicated to advancing CF studies while encouraging the NIH to provide long-term support.