The Consumers Energy Foundation Grant Program supports projects aligned with its mission to invest in the people, planet, and prosperity of Michigan. Operating as the philanthropic arm of Consumers Energy, the Foundation funds initiatives that reduce poverty, improve education and workforce readiness, protect Michigan’s natural environment, and stimulate economic development. Priority is given to capital investments, innovative programs, and campaigns demonstrating measurable impact and sustainability.
Eligible applicants are charitable organizations as defined by the IRS, primarily located in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula where Consumers Energy operates. While proposals from outside this area may be considered, they must significantly benefit communities within Consumers Energy’s service region. The Foundation does not provide grants to individuals, religious or political organizations, fraternal orders, or for non-charitable events, contests, or utility-related costs.
Grants typically range between $5,000 and $50,000, although no explicit funding cap exists. Most grants are awarded as one-time payments, but multi-year funding is occasionally approved. Proposals are evaluated based on need, project scope, objectives, budget alignment, and expected community outcomes, with particular attention to alignment with the Foundation’s focus on people, planet, or prosperity.
The application process is open on a rolling basis with no firm deadlines. Grant applications undergo an internal review followed by quarterly board evaluations, generally held at the end of each quarter. Organizations are encouraged to submit only their highest-priority request annually due to limited funding capacity.
Applicants must report on outcome-based metrics related to their project goals. While there is no formal pre-application requirement, contacting the Foundation is encouraged to clarify fit and strengthen the application. For further inquiries, applicants may contact Catherine Wilson, Secretary/Treasurer of the Consumers Energy Foundation, via email at foundation@cmsenergy.com or by phone at 517-788-0432.
Funding decisions are communicated after board review, and successful applicants are expected to use the funds according to the approved purpose. The Foundation supports an equitable and inclusive selection process and does not discriminate on any protected basis.
Projects must align with “People, Planet, Prosperity”; prioritize strongest application due to limited funding.
