For Good Major Grant

The Berrien Community Foundation’s “For Good Major” grant is part of its biannual “For Good Grants” program, aimed at supporting impactful initiatives within Berrien County, Michigan. Established to empower local nonprofits, schools, religious organizations engaged in community work, and government entities, this funding opportunity is designed to catalyze community improvement through both small- and large-scale grants. The “For Good Major” grant specifically provides up to $15,000 for projects that address critical needs and foster positive change, with an emphasis on sustainability and collaboration. Grants are awarded in two cycles each year, with application deadlines set for March 1 and August 1. Applicants are encouraged to begin project activities at least two months after the submission deadline—June 1 or later for spring applications and October 1 or later for fall applications. The program is restricted to organizations serving Berrien County, and only one grant per calendar year may be awarded to a single organization. Additionally, applicants that have received grants three years in a row must take a one-year break before reapplying. The For Good Major application requires a detailed proposal and several key documents. These include a project budget form and a signed grant signature form. Nonprofit applicants must also submit financial documents such as their most recent IRS Form 990 (N, EZ, or full), audited or compiled financial statements (based on IRS requirements), a list of board members, and a current operating budget. Government and religious organizations must provide their board list, current budget, and a financial balance statement. These materials help the foundation evaluate the organizational capacity and financial stewardship of each applicant. Funding priorities are broad and include areas such as arts, children, education, environment, health, seniors, youth leadership, and community improvement or special needs. Preference is given to programs that are innovative, prevention-focused, and capable of long-term sustainability without future reliance on the Foundation. The Foundation also favors proposals that demonstrate collaboration, community unification, volunteer engagement, and the potential to attract additional resources. While general operating expenses may be funded, such requests must be justified with clear reasoning and a plan for future self-sufficiency. Projects or initiatives typically excluded from funding include annual fundraising campaigns, sectarian religious purposes, political efforts, existing debts, individual grants, endowment contributions, and ongoing travel or holiday food programs. The Foundation assigns low priority to capital campaigns and discourages applications that imply long-term funding commitments. All applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s grant portal. New applicants must register as an organization using their EIN or manually input their information. Helpful application tips include drafting responses in a Word document before pasting them into the portal, and ensuring login credentials are saved securely. Applicants with additional questions are encouraged to contact the Foundation at 269-983-3304. The Foundation has also made past recipient examples publicly available, showcasing a wide range of funded programs from youth services to public safety and community health initiatives.

Use a Word document to draft answers; Save login details; Plan for sustainability; Avoid multiple consecutive-year applications