Nexteer Steering the Future Fund

In 2012, Nexteer Automotive established the Nexteer Steering the Future Fund at the Saginaw Community Foundation. This fund was created as a way for Nexteer Automotive to support programs and initiatives that directly impact the lives of individuals in Saginaw County, Michigan, where Nexteer Automotive operates and where many of its employees live and work. By creating this fund, the company demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the quality of life in its local community while encouraging projects that align with its corporate values and community engagement priorities. The fund provides annual allocations totaling $20,000, specifically dedicated to nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The emphasis of the grantmaking program is to encourage projects that improve education, promote innovation, strengthen communities, and foster diversity and inclusion. Additionally, the fund seeks to support initiatives that address economic development, technological advancement, environmental stewardship, and communication skills across home, school, workplace, civic, and global contexts. A key eligibility requirement is that applicants must secure project backing from a Nexteer Automotive employee who serves as a Nexteer Project Sponsor. The sponsor helps ensure that proposals meet the program’s evaluation criteria and align with the fund’s goals. This unique requirement ties the program closely to the company’s workforce, fostering stronger bonds between employees and the community initiatives supported by the foundation. Applications to the Nexteer Steering the Future Fund are accepted three times each year, with deadlines on February 1, June 1, and October 1. Applicants must first provide a brief project overview to the Saginaw Community Foundation by emailing Kendra Kempf at kendra@saginawfoundation.org. Once eligibility is determined, applicants receive a grant application number and the necessary application materials. All proposals are reviewed according to the program’s criteria, and funding decisions are communicated within six weeks of the submission deadline. The grant program excludes requests for operating budgets, repayment of existing debt, municipal and educational services considered basic, sectarian religious programs, individual scholarships, and sponsorships for sports teams. This ensures that funds are directed toward innovative and community-focused initiatives rather than ongoing operational expenses or restricted activities. Through its published criteria, the fund prioritizes projects that create cleaner environments, promote international relations and commerce, train future industry leaders in STEM-related fields, and improve economic and social conditions within the local community. The grantmaking process emphasizes transparency and accountability. After receiving an application, the Saginaw Community Foundation provides clear instructions and communicates outcomes promptly. Successful applicants are later required to submit a post-program report, ensuring funds are used appropriately and outcomes are documented. For additional information, the foundation’s office is located at 1 Tuscola, Suite 100B, Saginaw, MI 48607, and can be reached by phone at (989) 755-0545 or by fax at (989) 755-6524. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. This structured process ensures applicants have the guidance needed to apply successfully and demonstrate the impact of their projects in the community.

Applicants should submit a brief overview of their project to the foundation before beginning the full application.