CFNEM Community Impact Grant Program

The Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan (CFNEM) provides Community Impact Grants aimed at supporting nonprofit charitable initiatives within its service area, which includes Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency, and Presque Isle Counties. CFNEM operates to foster community well-being and economic vitality by funding projects that address pressing local needs, support innovative programs, and encourage collaboration and sustainability in the northeastern Michigan region. Eligibility for this grant requires the applicant organization to be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public school, or government entity. Religious organizations may also apply but must demonstrate that their proposed project serves the general public and avoids sectarian religious content. Grants to individuals are not permitted. Applications must include the organization’s Employer Identification Number (EIN), affirming their tax-exempt status. Grant proposals must be for future-oriented projects; applications for funding retroactive to already completed work will not be considered. Typically, grants are not awarded for routine operations or budget shortfalls. Stronger consideration is given to proposals requesting seed funding for new and dynamic initiatives that show evidence of additional support from other funding sources. CFNEM generally discourages applications that seek ongoing funding for the same project. The maximum award amount per application cycle is $5,000. Funded grants will be paid in full via check within two weeks after grant approval, contingent upon submission of a signed grant agreement by the applicant organization’s executive director. Final reporting on the use of funds is mandatory. Should a grantee need more time to complete the project, a six-month extension may be requested in writing. Applications are reviewed semi-annually, with deadlines on January 15 and July 15. The Grant Screening Committee, comprised of CFNEM board members, reviews all proposals and makes funding recommendations. These recommendations must be approved by the Board of Trustees during their monthly meeting following each deadline. Final grant decisions are typically made within six weeks of the application deadline. For additional guidance, CFNEM offers a sample budget to assist applicants in preparing their financial information for submission. Interested parties can find further information, access application materials, and contact CFNEM through their official website.