Small Grants Program

The Copper Shores Community Health Foundation (CSCHF), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, operates with a mission to foster a healthier community through enhanced philanthropy and collaboration. Based in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Foundation serves the counties of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon. Through its 2025 Small Grants Program, CSCHF seeks to support community-driven initiatives that directly influence health outcomes and promote systemic improvements to health and wellness in the region. The primary purpose of the Small Grants Program is to provide accessible, lower-barrier funding for projects that address pressing community health concerns, support wellness, and expand access to programs, events, and activities that otherwise would not occur without this support. By offering funding for targeted, short-term needs, the Foundation aims to empower local nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities to initiate or expand services in a manner consistent with the Foundation’s mission. Particular emphasis is placed on proposals that identify sustainability measures and systemic solutions, ensuring that funded programs can deliver long-lasting impact. Grants under this program can be requested up to a maximum of $2,500, with an overall program ceiling of $15,000 available for this round. While there is no set minimum request amount, all grant-supported activities must focus on health-related priorities and clearly articulate community benefit. The Foundation does not fund proposals aimed at filling budget gaps for existing services, repaying loans, supporting religious or political activities, or serving for-profit interests. Proposals must include measurable goals, sustainability plans, and budgets covering all necessary expenditures, and may receive additional consideration if they apply evidence-based methods or collaborative approaches. Eligible applicants must meet specific organizational requirements. Applicants must be recognized by the IRS as 501(c)(3) organizations, or be local government units or public educational institutions. All applicants must be domiciled in and serve the communities of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, or Ontonagon counties in Michigan. Financial accountability is required, including current 990 filings and CPA-prepared compiled financial statements for nonprofits with annual receipts under $250,000. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to implement the project and fulfill all grant-related reporting and evaluation requirements. The grant application opened publicly on June 10, 2025. Proposals are due by July 14, 2025, and awards will be announced by August 8, 2025. Applications can be submitted via email to grants@coppershores.org or mailed to Copper Shores Community Health Foundation, 400 Quincy St., Hancock, MI 49930. Any questions prior to submission may be addressed by contacting the Foundation’s offices directly or consulting their website’s FAQ section. Funded applicants will be expected to participate in evaluation efforts and learning activities led by the Foundation, as well as acknowledge CSCHF as the funding source in all program-related communications. All submissions will be reviewed by the CSCHF Grants Committee and the Board of Directors based on alignment with mission, demonstration of unmet needs, measurable impact, sustainability, innovation, and potential for replication. Additional factors include adherence to best practices, collaboration, and opportunities for public learning or policy influence. Applications that do not meet eligibility or purpose criteria will not be considered.

Applicants may contact staff or check FAQ prior to submission.