2025 Miller Foundation Grant

The Miller Foundation, based in Battle Creek, Michigan, was founded by Robert B. Miller Sr. with a mission to strengthen the local community by supporting nonprofit organizations. The Foundation operates with the belief that resources should be used to create a better and more cohesive community. Its philosophy emphasizes both setting an example and encouraging others to contribute so that projects become community-wide accomplishments. The Foundation is firmly rooted in serving the Battle Creek area and is committed to funding initiatives that advance community well-being. The primary purpose of the Miller Foundation’s grantmaking is to provide support to nonprofit organizations serving Battle Creek. The Foundation does not provide grants to individuals, and applicants must demonstrate federal tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code unless they are governmental organizations. A distinctive requirement of the Miller Foundation is that any organization receiving funding must ensure that at least 60 percent of its board members participate in a minimum two-hour board training session either within six months before or after the grant award. The Foundation facilitates this requirement by hosting four free board training sessions per year. The funding scope of the Miller Foundation focuses on supporting community-based projects and programs. While the Foundation does not specify award ceilings or floors, it has a policy of not awarding more than 10 percent of a project’s or program’s total budget. This requirement encourages grantees to seek multiple sources of funding and ensures that funded projects have broad community and organizational support. The Foundation also provides access to board training opportunities, which it considers a critical element of strengthening nonprofit governance and sustainability in the region. The application process begins with a Letter of Intent (LOI), which may be submitted at any time up to two weeks before a grant review deadline. Within seven days of submission, applicants are notified whether they may proceed to the online application stage or if their request has been denied. Once approved to proceed, applicants must complete the online grant application using the Foundation’s grant software system. The system is also used to request matching grants or CEO grants. Applicants must create an account or sign in to access these application forms. Grant applications are reviewed by the Miller Foundation Board of Trustees three times per year. Applications are due by February 5, June 5, and October 5, with reviews occurring at the Foundation’s March, July, and November/December board meetings. Letters of intent must be submitted at least two weeks prior to these deadlines. Organizations are expected to provide documentation of compliance with board training requirements if they have attended training outside of those provided by the Foundation. The Miller Foundation does not publish explicit evaluation criteria beyond its eligibility and governance requirements, but it prioritizes applications that align with its mission of community improvement. Its review process is structured around deadlines and recurring cycles, ensuring multiple opportunities per year for organizations to apply. While no direct contact information is provided in the grant guidelines, applicants are directed to the Foundation’s website to create accounts, submit applications, and find details about board training opportunities. This structured process reflects the Foundation’s dual focus on funding community-driven projects and strengthening nonprofit governance in Battle Creek.

Ensure compliance with board training requirements and submit LOIs at least two weeks before deadlines.