UPSF & Wildlife Grant

The Upper Peninsula Sustainable Forest and Wildlife Fund (UPSF&WF), managed by the Community Foundation of the Upper Peninsula (CFUP), supports projects that promote the sustainability of forests and wildlife in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. CFUP is a longstanding community-focused foundation that distributes charitable contributions to enhance the region's well-being. In 2016 alone, it disbursed over $1.3 million in community grants, emphasizing its commitment to regional development and environmental stewardship. The UPSF&WF grant program is a key part of this mission, directing funds toward initiatives that benefit both residents and visitors through sustainable practices. The primary purpose of the UPSF&WF is to fund research, education, training, and wildlife habitat improvement projects specifically related to the long-term sustainability of the Upper Peninsula’s forests and wildlife. Projects must demonstrate public benefit and often emphasize youth involvement, public education, and collaborative partnerships. While grants are typically capped at $1,000, applicants may request higher amounts, although awards above this threshold are subject to increased scrutiny. Political activities and general operational costs, such as salaries or ongoing personnel expenses, are not eligible for funding. Grants are issued exclusively to nonprofit organizations recognized as tax-exempt under IRS Code 501(c)(3) or other eligible nonprofit statuses. Individual applicants and service clubs are not eligible. Applicants must submit a completed grant package, which includes a cover sheet, a project narrative, a budget, proof of nonprofit status, and letters of support. This full application must be submitted in both original and four copy formats to the CFUP office. The project narrative must outline the problem or need being addressed, the intended beneficiaries, the project’s goals and objectives, and a proposed timetable. It should also detail the roles of any project partners, sustainability plans, and evaluation methods. Successful applications are those that show collaborative effort, direct public benefit, and alignment with the fund’s environmental and educational goals. Applications are due semi-annually by April 1 and October 1, unless those dates fall on a weekend or holiday, in which case the deadline is extended to the next business day. All applications must be received by 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Decisions are made by the Advisory Committee within the same month, with final approvals issued by the CFUP Board. Applicants are typically notified of the outcome within the first 10 days of May or November. Recipients must submit a project summary report within 30 days of receiving funds, detailing activities, completed goals, and community impact. For inquiries or application submission, contact the Community Foundation of the Upper Peninsula at 2420 1st Avenue South, Escanaba, MI 49829, phone 906-789-5972, or email office@cfup.org.

Emphasize collaborative efforts, ensure all five copies are submitted, tailor project to public benefit and UPSF&WF goals