Michigan grants for City or township governments

Grant Name: Caring for MI Future: Facilities Improvement Fund Funding Source: Michigan Department of Education, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, Office of Child Care, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Purpose: The grant program aims to distribute $50 million to new and expanding child care providers in Michigan to renovate and upgrade their facilities in order to create additional child care slots, particularly in areas with limited providers. Eligible applicants include newly licensed providers, existing providers who have expanded their capacity, those in the process of expanding their capacity, licensed family or group child care homes with approved capacity variance from LARA, providers with provisional licenses, Head Start and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) participants offering tuition-based child care, and providers changing their license type as long as they are working with LARA.

This grant provides funding for projects that enhance community and economic growth in Huron County by supporting workforce development, vibrant community initiatives, and business development, among other areas of interest.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund offers matching grants to states and local governments for acquiring and developing public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Aligning with Michigan's 2023-2027 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), this grant focuses on assessing current resources and demands, evaluating trends, and setting strategic priorities for outdoor recreation improvements over the next five years. Applications are evaluated based on criteria that ensure alignment with the SCORP, and funding decisions are made by the National Park Service upon recommendation from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Application deadlines are set annually, with a process involving submission, evaluation, and final approval stages. Applicants must have a DNR-approved community five-year recreation plan to be eligible. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: April 1st

The Native American Heritage Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that honor and promote Native American culture and heritage within the State of Michigan. Eligible projects include those undertaken by public or private K-12 schools (including charter schools), accredited colleges or universities, and local units of government such as school districts, community college districts, cities, villages, townships, road commissions, or counties. Non-profit organizations can also apply, provided they have an eligible educational institution or local government entity as their sponsor and fiduciary. The application deadline for this grant is 5:00 p.m., Friday, June 7, 2024. The grant provides financial support for projects that foster understanding and appreciation of Native American culture within the Michigan community.

The Michigan Office of the Environmental Justice Public Advocate in the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) offers the Environmental Justice (EJ) Impact Grant program. This program is designed to reduce environmental health burdens and impacts within Michigan’s Environmental Justice communities. The core mission of this grant aligns with the broader goal of promoting environmental equity and public health, particularly in areas disproportionately affected by environmental issues. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are residents within Michigan’s Environmental Justice communities. The overarching impact goal is to positively affect these residents by funding place-based and equity-focused projects. This direct focus on communities facing environmental injustice ensures that the grant addresses critical needs where they are most prevalent, aiming for tangible improvements in their living environments and health outcomes. The program prioritizes several key areas for funding. These include community improvement projects aimed at enhancing public health, initiating or expanding monitoring of background pollution levels in air, water, or soil (with air monitoring equipment classified as air quality sensors and not for regulatory use), new or improved equipment or management techniques to improve indoor air quality in schools, and the remediation/redevelopment of contaminated or blighted sites. These priorities reflect a comprehensive approach to environmental justice, addressing both pollution and its direct impacts on community well-being. Expected outcomes include measurable improvements in public health through community projects, enhanced understanding of pollution levels via monitoring, better indoor air quality in schools, and the revitalization of environmentally degraded areas. The program has a total of $20,000,000 available, with a maximum of $500,000 per applicant. This substantial funding allows for significant, impactful projects. Eligible applicants include federally recognized Tribes, community-based non-profit organizations (including grassroots and frontline organizations), schools, institutions of higher education, and local governments, reflecting a strategic approach to engage diverse stakeholders in achieving environmental justice.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service will support projects in the Great Lakes basin that implement the following strategic, priority actions: Mitigate Invasive Forest Insect and Disease ImpactsImplement targeted reforestation and forest protection actions to minimize invasive forest insect and disease impacts on watersheds. Reduce Runoff through Green Infrastructure Capture or treat stormwater runoff by planting trees and other vegetation as an integral component of green infrastructure. Restore and Connect Coastal and Riparian Forest Habitats Protect, restore, and enhance high-quality coastal zone and connecting riparian ecosystems where trees are an important component. The minimum and maximum Federal funding requests vary depending on program area, with an overall range of $50,000 to $300,000. Please review the funding table in the Request for Applications for the allowable ranges of each program area. An informational webinar will occur on July 23rd, 2024, at 9 am Central/10 am Eastern. The link is: https://usfs-public.box.com/s/91m9ed3hrjpkab7c1a5zly1ud025xxc5 The powerpoint can be found at: https://usfs-public.box.com/s/mffkiks7dyhmuewtir2liy7tllo06u16 The webinar recording is also posted on our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r9/workingtogether/grants/?cid=FSEPRD898819.

This funding opportunity supports conservation projects that provide employment and training for young adults and veterans, helping them gain experience in environmental stewardship and resource management on public lands.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Recycling Unit is offering grants to support recycling infrastructure projects. EGLE's mission is to protect Michigan’s environment and public health by managing air, water, land, and energy resources, with a focus on addressing climate change, diversity, equity, and inclusion. This grant program aligns with EGLE's broader mission by directly contributing to environmental protection through improved waste management and resource recovery, thereby supporting a healthier and more sustainable Michigan. The target beneficiaries for these grants include a wide range of Michigan-based entities, such as non-profit organizations, tribal governments, school districts, universities/colleges, local health departments, regional planning agencies, cities, villages, townships, charter townships, counties, municipal solid waste authorities, and resource recovery authorities. The impact goals are to increase access to recycling services and grow the statewide recycling rate, ultimately contributing to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s climate priorities. This program aims to achieve measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and benefit environmental justice communities or underserved and vulnerable populations. The program priorities include supporting initiatives with the largest projected increases in processing or collection capacity volume, access, and participation. Preference is given to programs with sustainable funding mechanisms, robust and continuing education programs, and applicants demonstrating strong collaboration and partnerships with other groups and organizations. Additionally, projects that leverage concurrent funding from other sources, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or various foundations and businesses, are highly valued. Projects that directly support Governor Whitmer’s climate change priorities through measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are also a key focus. Expected outcomes include a higher statewide recycling rate, increased access to recycling services across Michigan, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The measurable results will be evaluated by the projected increases in processing or collection capacity volume, participation rates, and the quantifiable environmental benefits, especially in environmental justice communities. The maximum funding request is $1 million, with a minimum of $5,000, for eligible projects such as the transition to recycling carts, public space recycling containers, new or improved processing infrastructure, school and multifamily recycling projects, and collection vehicles. Ineligible projects include organics/food waste, household hazardous waste, electronic waste, scrap tire recycling, and one-day collection events, which further refines the program's strategic priorities.

The Community Foundation is offering multiple grant cycles in 2024, including 5 community grant cycles and two ongoing grant cycles. The grants focus on various areas such as arts and culture, education, environment and land use initiatives, community and economic development, civic improvement, human services, health and wellness projects, recreation, and youth projects. Nonprofit organizations, educational institutions (preschool through college), and all units of government serving Charlevoix County residents are eligible to apply. The application deadlines vary for each grant cycle. Applicants are encouraged to contact Ashley Cousens or Megan Havrilla DeHoog to discuss eligibility and receive an access code for the online grant application. Grant decisions will be announced in early December, and funded organizations will be required to submit a follow-up report within one year of the grant award.

The Public Safety Academy Assistance Program provides financial support, up to $24,000 per recruit, for law enforcement training academy costs and salaries of recruits attending the academy, with a single agency able to fund up to 25 recruits.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and local governments in Michigan for improving emergency shelters and expanding transitional housing programs to better assist individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to museums and nonprofit organizations in Michigan to help stabilize their operations, expand their capacity, and implement strategic initiatives over the next five years.

The Climate Action Equity Project (CAEP) is an initiative distributing grants through the Greater New Orleans Foundation (GNOF) to support equitable climate action projects. This program aligns with GNOF's mission to address climate challenges by focusing on equity, ensuring that underserved communities in the Greater New Orleans area are actively involved and benefit from these efforts. The grants aim to further the goals outlined in the "Taking Steps Together for Equity & Climate" framework, emphasizing a collaborative and inclusive approach to climate resilience. The primary beneficiaries of this program are nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations serving the Greater New Orleans area, particularly those located in New Orleans and led by, or in partnership with, residents of underserved neighborhoods. The grants also encourage applications from smaller organizations and those with limited grant application experience, providing support to ensure broader participation. The impact goals are centered on fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for the region by empowering local communities to lead climate action. The CAEP focuses on several key priority areas: modernizing energy use, improving transportation choices, reducing waste, and creating a culture that supports workforce and small business opportunities in climate action. The program offers flexible support, covering general operations, various programs, and advocacy efforts including legislative, judicial, or executive advocacy, community organizing, campaigns, leadership development, and policy development. Additionally, capacity building is a significant focus, supporting technology needs, collaboration, professional development, communications training, organizational effectiveness, and evaluation and research. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in local climate resilience, increased community engagement in climate solutions, and the growth of a green economy that benefits underserved populations. Applications will be evaluated on criteria such as meeting eligibility and guidelines, the plan for evaluating program impact, the proposed use of funds, and the organization's collaboration with underserved communities. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed as a collective target, the evaluation criteria suggest a focus on demonstrable project impact and community benefit, aligning with a theory of change that posits local, equitable initiatives will lead to broader regional climate resilience and social equity.

Sanback Dam Removal & Stream Restoration Design Phase: This grant opportunity is for the design and permitting phase of fully removing Sanback Dam in Rose City, MI. The existing dam is deteriorating and poses safety hazards. If the dam were to fail, it could endanger people downstream and damage property and infrastructure. The grant is open to organizations of all types seeking to restore the stream habitat downstream. Shiawassee Access and Riverfront Development: The Village of Byron proposes to develop a publicly accessible riverfront viewing platform as part of their Economic & Public Space initiative along the Shiawassee River. The plan aims to attract new commerce, residents, and visitors to enhance the commercial corridor. The project will catalyze redevelopment efforts after a fire destroyed several sites in 2012. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers are eligible to apply. Smith Park Fishing Access: The City of Essexville's Smith Park includes a boat launch and recreation area near Saginaw Bay. However, fishing opportunities are limited due to irregular riverbanks and failed erosion control measures. This grant supports park improvements with a focus on fishing access, including the development of a floating fishing pier. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers can apply for this grant opportunity. Finn Road Park Improvements: Proposed by Hampton Township, this grant supports improvements at Finn Road Park along Saginaw Bay's shoreline. The project includes native plantings and restoration, a universally accessible kayak launch, parking improvements, and a new playground area. Grant funds will specifically be used for the kayak launch and native plant rain garden. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers are eligible to apply. An updated Development/Capital Improvement Plan for the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition: This grant supports updating and publicly distributing the Development/Capital Improvement Plan for the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition. The plan aims to enhance public launch sites along the river

This grant provides flexible funding to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in the greater Holland/Zeeland area of Michigan to address various community needs through capital investments or new and expanded programs.

The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) is offering $57 million in grant funds for in-person before-school, after-school, before-and-after-school, and/or summer programming for children in grades K-12. This initiative aligns with MiLEAP's mission to prioritize education from preschool through postsecondary, focusing on kindergarten readiness and helping individuals earn skills or degrees for good-paying jobs. The grant specifically supports Out-of-School Time (OST) Programs that provide educational programming in core subjects such as mathematics, reading, and science. The target beneficiaries are children in grades K-12. The impact goals are to improve school attendance, academic outcomes, attitudes toward school, positive behaviors, skill development and retention, and higher education aspirations, as well as to enhance family engagement. MiLEAP's strategic priority is to prepare children for kindergarten and help more people earn a skill certificate or degree, and this grant directly contributes to that by funding programs that offer expanded learning opportunities and academic enrichment. The grant prioritizes the expansion of existing programs, establishment of new programs, hands-on academic enrichment, field trips, professional learning, and the development of school-community partnerships. It also supports expanded learning opportunities in areas like mentoring, leadership, community engagement, agriculture, visual and performing arts, financial literacy, STEM, health and wellness, recreation, career and college exploration, youth voice, 21st-century skills, social-emotional learning, and cultural engagement. Expected outcomes include measurable improvements in areas such as improved school attendance and academic performance, enhanced positive behaviors and skill development, and increased aspirations for higher education. The grant's theory of change posits that by investing in comprehensive OST programming that addresses both academic and social-emotional needs, children will be better prepared for academic success and future career opportunities, thereby contributing to MiLEAP's broader goal of lifelong education and advancement.

This grant provides funding to public and nonprofit organizations in Michigan to implement solar energy projects that benefit low-income households by reducing their energy costs and promoting equitable access to clean energy solutions.

Grant Opportunity: Outdoor Education Partnership III Description: The Chippewa Nature Center and U.S Fish and Wildlife Service are collaborating to restore wetland, grassland, and pollinator habitat as outdoor classrooms on school lands in the 22 County Saginaw Bay Watershed. County or city-owned lands can also be developed as outdoor education areas if local schools can incorporate them into their curriculum. The projects will be funded through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, with an average cost of $2,000 per acre for restoration. Priority will be given to schools, and each project will include a customized curriculum guide, lessons, supplies, and teacher training. Grant Opportunity: Great Mural Project Description: The Downtown Saginaw Association is leading the Great Mural Project, which aims to transform eyesores or forgotten spaces in Saginaw with beautiful murals and community art installations. The project focuses on sustainability, the river system, non-motorized trails, and other WIN investment projects. WIN will provide a small advisory committee to support the project. Grant Opportunity: Places Create Stories : The Power of Nature Description: Heart of the Lakes and Little Forks Conservancy are partnering to develop a media project that highlights the value of nature from an economic and community perspective. The project aims to create three short videos that emphasize the importance of nature for community character, job retention/recruitment, and economic development. The videos will be distributed through land conservancies and can be tailored for different groups' use. Grant Opportunity: Nature Kindergarten Pilot Description: This grant supports the development of a nature-based kindergarten pilot project at Bullock Creek Schools in cooperation with Chippewa Nature Center. Building on the success of a nature-based preschool program at Chippewa Nature Center, this pilot project aims to incorporate nature-based learning into two kindergarten classrooms. Grant Opportunity: MI Great Bay Regional Tourism Marketing & Development Phase 1 Description: This project seeks funding

This funding opportunity supports nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions in Charlevoix County that are working to improve youth mental health and create a positive school environment.

This grant provides funding to local governments and Michigan-based non-profits for projects that improve water quality and recreational access in the Chain of Lakes Watershed and surrounding areas in Antrim County, Michigan.