The Michigan Baseball Foundation (MBF) is a private nonprofit organization that supports capital projects proposed by nonprofit organizations operating within the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan. MBF’s mission is to strengthen communities through strategic investment in youth-centered initiatives, amateur sports, regional economic development, and public health. Since its founding, MBF has contributed over $1.8 million in grants to area nonprofits.
MBF awards grants for tangible, capital-focused projects and does not provide funding for daily operational needs or temporary programmatic costs. Eligible project types include facility upgrades, equipment purchases, and permanent infrastructure that supports community access, youth engagement, and physical activity. Examples of excluded uses include uniforms, scholarships, travel expenses, consumables, and routine maintenance like field resurfacing.
To be eligible, applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving one or more counties in Michigan’s Mid-Michigan area, particularly within the Great Lakes Bay Region. Applications are assessed on alignment with MBF’s objectives, regional impact, and youth benefit. MBF strongly prefers projects that demonstrate additional financial support from donors or other partners and discourages being the sole or initial funder. Organizations are expected to complete their projects within the calendar year they receive the grant.
For the 2026 grant cycle, applications are due February 13, 2026. Interested applicants must submit a complete application form including project description, goals, outcomes, budget, funding sources, geographic scope, and number of youth served. Evaluation criteria include clarity of outcomes, alignment with MBF’s funding priorities, and demonstrated community need.
For assistance with your application, organizations may contact Jessica Gillespie at gillespie@loons.com or call 989-837-2255. The application form is available through MBF’s website and outlines all necessary submission components.
MBF prefers applicants who are not solely dependent on MBF funding and who secure other funding sources
