Michigan Environment Grants

The Sisters of St. Francis (Sylvania) Foundation Grant Program, in partnership with the Greater Toledo Community Foundation, is offering grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations in selected counties of Ohio and Michigan, to support programs that combat human trafficking, assist immigrants and refugees, advance social justice and equal opportunity, and promote environmental preservation and sustainability.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Recycling Unit is offering grants for recycling infrastructure projects. Donor Name: Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) State: Michigan County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant | Matching Grants Deadline: 05/17/2024 Size of the Grant: $500,000 to $1 million Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: EGLE protects Michigan’s environment and public health by managing air, water, land, and energy resources, and is focused on addressing climate change, diversity, equity, and inclusion. In fiscal year (FY) 2024, EGLE will provide matching grants to support Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s climate priorities by supplementing efforts to increase access to recycling services and grow the statewide recycling rate. Program Priorities  Programs with the largest projected increases in processing or collection capacity volume and/or access and participation. Programs with sustainable funding mechanisms in place. Programs that currently provide or propose robust, continuing education programs. Applicants with demonstrated ability to collaborate and partner with other groups and organizations. Projects that leverage concurrent project funding from other sources, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), The Recycling Partnership, Carton Council, Closed Loop Fund, Michigan Soft Drink Association, American Beverage Association, or local foundations or businesses. Projects that support Governor Whitmer’s climate change priorities through measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Projects that will benefit an environmental justice community or underserved and vulnerable populations within a community. Funding Information The maximum amount of funding that can be requested for an EGLE Recycling Infrastructure Grant is $1 million. The minimum grant funds an applicant may request is $5,000. Eligibility Criteria  For purposes of this RFP, the following types of entities are eligible to apply: non-profit organizations, tribal governments, school districts, universities/colleges, local health departments, regional planning agencies, cities, villages, townships, charter townships, counties, municipal solid waste authorities, and resource recovery authorities located in Michigan. Eligible Recycling Infrastructure Grants include but are not limited to: The transition from recycling bins to carts, public space recycling containers, creation, or enhancement of public drop-off recycling, new or improved recycling processing infrastructure, school recycling projects, collection vehicles, and multifamily recycling projects. Ineligible projects include organics/food waste projects, household hazardous waste projects, electronic waste recycling projects, scrap tire recycling projects, and one-day collection events. For more information, visit EGLE.

This grant provides funding for conservation organizations and partners to improve deer habitats in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, focusing on critical wintering areas and enhancing public awareness of ecological efforts.

The City of Flint has received a $50,000 grant to empower youth-led climate initiatives through microgrants. Donor Name: City of Flint State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: This new Youth Climate Action Fund is designed to support a wide range of projects, from tree-planting and public education campaigns to recycling and waste reduction initiatives. Flint youth ages 15-24 are invited to apply for funding for projects that will advance critical community goals such as climate resilient infrastructure planning, flood mitigation and prevention, increasing participation in recycling, and access to sustainable modes of transportation. Whether you’re interested in launching a new project or enhancing an existing effort, this fund offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the environment and community. Eligible Projects  Eligible projects and efforts could include, but are not limited to: Youth-led awareness, education, research, and development initiatives, including: youth-led climate education programs; youth climate hackathons; youth-developed climate surveys and research; youth-informed clubs or curriculum; and youth-designed public art and awareness campaigns. Youth-driven climate mitigation and adaptation projects, including: youth-led community gardening, tree planting, reforestation, and urban farming campaigns; youth-managed recycling and waste reduction programs; and youth-produced climate resilience workshops and disaster preparedness programs. Co-governed youth climate action plans, including: partnerships between city leaders and youth groups to inform climate-related policy ideas, decisions, or actions or the formation of youth climate ambassadors or advisory boards. Who Can Apply? Youth ages 15-24 in collaboration with local groups, organizations, nonprofits, and schools are encouraged to apply. Please note this is a grant with expenditure responsibilities for compliance. The receiving entity for the project or initiative must be able to provide evidence of legal status (for-profit, nonprofits, private foundations, new organizations with pending public charity status); current financial statements, annual report or organizational summary, list of leadership, evidence of receiving grants in the past. Ineligibility  Grant funds cannot be used for: Services covered by existing city initiatives  Rent or Utilities Nonprofit/NGO incorporation fees Speaker honorariums Improvement projects that primarily serve churches and/or other religious organizations Scholarships or other direct support to individuals or families Partisan political organizations, political candidates, fundraisers, or projects Capital campaigns, endowments, or endowed chairs Events or fundraisers not related to youth climate action. For more information, visit City of Flint.

The Huron County Community Foundation is seeking applications for its fall grant cycle. Donor Name: Huron County Community Foundation State: Michigan County: Huron County (MI) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/23/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Huron County Community Foundation is a nonprofit, community corporation created by and for the people of Huron County to make a positive impact on the community. Huron County Community Foundation will focus on Prosperity by supporting Community & Economic Growth with a focus in the following Strategic Priority areas: Retaining and attracting a talented, trained workforce Creating vibrant and dynamic communities Cultivating an environment for business development. Focus Areas  Projects addressing one or more of the Strategic Priority areas will be given preference for unrestricted grantmaking dollars, however, HCCF also holds funds to benefit numerous interest areas. Projects addressing these areas are encouraged to apply:  Arts and Culture Education Health & Medicine Basic Needs Services Beautification of Huron County Natural Areas Preservation Disadvantaged Youth Recreation Women in STEM  Application Guidelines  To apply for a grant, please complete and return the attached application form along with a less than two page project narrative outlining the following topic areas as they relate to the project: Project Description  A description and purpose of the project, including location How many people will be served? What is the project’s long-term impact? Are there measurable results? How would a grant from HCCF be recognized before/during/after the project? Applicant Organization  A brief description of the history of the applicant organization, including when it was founded and who it serves. Only one application per application organization will be considered per grant cycle Project Team  List the names and responsibilities of persons and organizations involved Evaluation Describe how you will determine if you accomplished your purpose. Budget  Provide estimated project income and expenses, include other income sources and their approval status, as well as any fundraising. If partial funding from HCCF was awarded, would the project continue as presented? For more information, visit HCCF.

This funding program provides financial support to community-based organizations that empower youth aged 12 to 20 through established, youth-led urban greening initiatives focused on social and environmental justice in select states.

Sanback Dam Removal & Stream Restoration Design Phase: This grant opportunity is for the design and permitting phase of fully removing Sanback Dam in Rose City, MI. The existing dam is deteriorating and poses safety hazards. If the dam were to fail, it could endanger people downstream and damage property and infrastructure. The grant is open to organizations of all types seeking to restore the stream habitat downstream. Shiawassee Access and Riverfront Development: The Village of Byron proposes to develop a publicly accessible riverfront viewing platform as part of their Economic & Public Space initiative along the Shiawassee River. The plan aims to attract new commerce, residents, and visitors to enhance the commercial corridor. The project will catalyze redevelopment efforts after a fire destroyed several sites in 2012. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers are eligible to apply. Smith Park Fishing Access: The City of Essexville's Smith Park includes a boat launch and recreation area near Saginaw Bay. However, fishing opportunities are limited due to irregular riverbanks and failed erosion control measures. This grant supports park improvements with a focus on fishing access, including the development of a floating fishing pier. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers can apply for this grant opportunity. Finn Road Park Improvements: Proposed by Hampton Township, this grant supports improvements at Finn Road Park along Saginaw Bay's shoreline. The project includes native plantings and restoration, a universally accessible kayak launch, parking improvements, and a new playground area. Grant funds will specifically be used for the kayak launch and native plant rain garden. Nonprofits, startups, local governments, small businesses, and researchers are eligible to apply. An updated Development/Capital Improvement Plan for the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition: This grant supports updating and publicly distributing the Development/Capital Improvement Plan for the Shiawassee River Water Trail Coalition. The plan aims to enhance public launch sites along the river

The Building Healthy Communities: Middle School Program is available to schools serving students in 5th, 6th or 7th grade. Donor Name: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan State: Michigan County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/30/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The program recognizes that Michigan schools, students and staff continue to need physical, mental, and emotional health support. This program is helping meet these needs by encouraging a whole-child approach to health, while recognizing the unique needs of every school community across the state. This includes a variety of instructional options that meet the needs of both in-person and virtual learning environments, as well as a flexible implementation model that allows your school to prioritize investments in areas of need such as mental health, self-care and physical activity resources. Building Healthy Communities: Engaging Middle Schools through Project Healthy Schools partners with schools to champion a sustainable culture of wellness throughout the school’s community. Through education, policy and environmental change, this program tailors health and wellness initiatives to the unique needs of each school. Healthy habits start young, and this program helps establish the knowledge and behaviors needed for a healthy lifestyle that lasts a lifetime. The goals of the program are for students to: Eat more fruits and vegetables Choose less sugary food and beverages Eat less fast and fatty food Be active every day Spend less entertainment time in front of screens. Eligibility Criteria  Public, charter or private nonprofit schools in Michigan are eligible. Building Healthy Communities is available to all Michigan schools regardless of their: Free and reduced-price school meals percentage Geographic location Schools taking part in other healthy eating, nutrition education, physical activity or physical education programs are eligible. Schools that applied in prior years but weren’t selected are encouraged to apply again. Middle schools must serve students in the fifth, sixth or seventh grade to be eligible. Schools that already have Project Healthy Schools aren’t eligible. Schools that previously received a Building Healthy Communities program aren’t eligible. For more information, visit BCBSM.

This grant provides funding for research and training projects that help protect Michigan's horticulture industry from pests and safeguard plant products.

This grant provides funding to eligible organizations focused on improving environmental health and justice in the Great Lakes region, particularly addressing water quality, lead hazards, and air quality in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties in Michigan.

This program provides funding to neighborhood groups in Ann Arbor for community-driven projects that promote sustainability and support the city's climate action initiatives.

The Mecosta County Community Foundation in Michigan is offering grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 from its Community Needs Fund to support projects in arts, culture, community development, education, health, historical preservation, and environmental conservation, open to applications from 501(C)3 or tax-supported organizations impacting Mecosta County.

This grant provides funding to public and nonprofit organizations in Michigan to implement solar energy projects that benefit low-income households by reducing their energy costs and promoting equitable access to clean energy solutions.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are requesting applications for its Step Up for School Wellness grant. Donor Name: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan State: Michigan County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/30/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Building Healthy Communities: Step Up for School Wellness, or BHC: SUFSW, program is recognized by health and education leaders as a successful and innovative program that empowers school health leaders, educators, administrators, families and communities to improve the health and well-being of students and staff. The program focuses on creating a healthier school environment and building a culture of wellness that supports physical activity, healthier food choices, mental health and overall well-being. The program is available to schools through a collaboration between Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association, Michigan Fitness Foundation, Michigan Recreation and Park Association, Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Virtual, SHAPE Michigan, United Dairy Industry of Michigan and University of Michigan. Collaborating organizations have aligned under BHC: SUFSW for greater collective impact. Program Goals Creating healthier environments can lead to the development of lifelong healthy behaviors that reduce the incidence of obesity and undernourishment, combat absenteeism, address trauma, and nurture a more productive teaching and learning atmosphere. The program’s fivestep model translates into program goals that drive impacts focused on improved knowledge, attitudes and behaviors. Empower students to be more physically active every day. Empower students to make healthy choices that include fruit, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains and lean protein every day. Empower students to learn and practice social and emotional skills. Empower staff to implement and participate in well-being initiatives that support a culture of wellness at school for all employees. Encourage staff to make changes in policies, systems and environments that support the well-being of students and staff. Focus Areas Focus Area 1: Physical Activity and Physical Education Resources. Focus Area 2: Healthy Eating and Nutrition Education Resources. Focus Area 3: Well-Being Resources. Eligibility Criteria  All public, charter or private nonprofit schools in Michigan, serving any grade level K-12, can apply each year regardless of their economic status, geographic location or participation in other school wellness grants, programs or initiatives. School awards are based on need, readiness, alignment with grade requirements and prerequisites, and available funding. For more information, visit BCBSM.

Grant Opportunity: Outdoor Education Partnership III Description: The Chippewa Nature Center and U.S Fish and Wildlife Service are collaborating to restore wetland, grassland, and pollinator habitat as outdoor classrooms on school lands in the 22 County Saginaw Bay Watershed. County or city-owned lands can also be developed as outdoor education areas if local schools can incorporate them into their curriculum. The projects will be funded through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, with an average cost of $2,000 per acre for restoration. Priority will be given to schools, and each project will include a customized curriculum guide, lessons, supplies, and teacher training. Grant Opportunity: Great Mural Project Description: The Downtown Saginaw Association is leading the Great Mural Project, which aims to transform eyesores or forgotten spaces in Saginaw with beautiful murals and community art installations. The project focuses on sustainability, the river system, non-motorized trails, and other WIN investment projects. WIN will provide a small advisory committee to support the project. Grant Opportunity: Places Create Stories : The Power of Nature Description: Heart of the Lakes and Little Forks Conservancy are partnering to develop a media project that highlights the value of nature from an economic and community perspective. The project aims to create three short videos that emphasize the importance of nature for community character, job retention/recruitment, and economic development. The videos will be distributed through land conservancies and can be tailored for different groups' use. Grant Opportunity: Nature Kindergarten Pilot Description: This grant supports the development of a nature-based kindergarten pilot project at Bullock Creek Schools in cooperation with Chippewa Nature Center. Building on the success of a nature-based preschool program at Chippewa Nature Center, this pilot project aims to incorporate nature-based learning into two kindergarten classrooms. Grant Opportunity: MI Great Bay Regional Tourism Marketing & Development Phase 1 Description: This project seeks funding

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan is accepting applications for its grant program. Donor Name: Catholic Foundation of Michigan State: Michigan County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/26/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Catholic Foundation of Michigan inspires charitable giving and assists donors in investing in the future of Catholic parishes, schools and nonprofit organizations. Focus Areas The Catholic Foundation grants in three major focus areas. Empowering Social Outreach The Gospel call is to respond to vital social service needs such as food, shelter, medicine for the sick, and hope for those in despair within the community. Examples include but are not limited to: Sustaining Archdiocesan, religious or parish-sponsored nonprofit organizations Leveraging local nonprofit organizations in line with Catholic Social Teaching. Building Vibrant Parish Life The parish is where they encounter Christ – in the sacraments, as well as in the people of the faith community. It’s where they worship, learn, and serve. It’s the home, and it is the privilege to create a strong parish environment. Examples include but are not limited to: Building welcoming and attractive Catholic parishes in Michigan Supporting resource equipment, materials, technology development for communications and outreach related to parish community development Encouraging training opportunities and new staff positions related to parish community development. Fostering Catholic Education and Formation Catholic education encompasses all types of faith formation for people of every age. They encourage all stages of educational and spiritual development to enhance vibrant discipleship. Examples include are but not limited to: Supporting innovative faith formation Fostering high quality young adult, youth or senior ministries Improving access to parochial schools Promoting leadership development for religious order ministries. Eligibility Criteria  Before submitting an online LOI, please review the following requirements: Nonprofit entities in Michigan that serve communities primarily in Michigan. The organization’s mission, values and behaviors are in line with Catholic Teachings. Organization is a U.S. 501(c)(3) with audited financial statements. Project addresses one or more of the funding focus areas: social outreach, education/formation, and parish life. Foundation will not likely consider funding the following: Individuals Requests designated for endowment funds, deficit financing, capital campaigns, or loans Programs operated to benefit for-profit organizations Organizations that discriminate based on any federally protected status. For more information, visit CFM.

Applications are now being accepted for the Worthington Family Foundation Grant. Donor Name: Worthington Family Foundation State: Michigan Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/17/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Eligible Requests The grants support: Programs supporting children through young adults. Performing and Visual Arts endeavors or organizations and/or Programs that demonstrate environmental stewardship. Programs which are based in the United States (mandatory). Funds must be spent in the United States. Michigan-based non-profit organizations will be given preferred but not exclusive consideration. The grants support projects specified in the request only. Foundation does NOT contribute to General Funds. Eligibility Criteria  Applicant’s organizations must meet the following criteria: Non-profit organizations with proof of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Strong board involvement and competent leadership. A proven track record of relationships fostered with other organizations, the community, etc. For more information, visit Worthington Family Foundation.

This grant, under the authority of Public Act 53 of 2022, is part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, designated to enhance public outdoor recreation facilities through the development, renovation, or redevelopment of local parks and trails. The funding aims to modernize these facilities and promote public recreation, equity, tourism, and economic recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible subrecipients must maintain an active SAM registration and use the funds in accordance with the established terms, including meeting deadlines for expense obligations and expenditures by specific dates in 2024 and 2026 respectively.

This program provides funding to organizations in Michigan to help low-income households access solar energy, prioritizing projects that serve predominantly low-income subscribers.

Greenspace Enhancement Grant Program Our Greenspace Enhancement Grant Program extends our mission by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations that actively work towards improving and preserving outdoor environments. The grants focus on: Community Gardens: Creating, rehabilitating, and enhancing community gardens that provide educational opportunities and serve community needs. Neighborhood and School Beautification: Beautifying and enriching outdoor environments in economically disadvantaged areas, particularly around neighborhoods and schools. Parks and Greenspaces: Revitalizing parks and public greenspaces through planting and the addition or upgrading of efficient irrigation systems. Sustainable Impact: Projects that align with Toro's purpose of enriching the beauty, productivity, and sustainability of the land, impacting beautification, and increasing the utilization of public greenspaces. Community Engagement: Encouraging broad community involvement in project design and implementation, ensuring tangible and sustainable results. Eligibility Location: The benefiting organization must be located within 40 miles of a Toro Company location in the following cities: Arkansas: Batesville California: El Cajon, Riverside Florida: Sanford Michigan: Iron Mountain Nebraska: Beatrice Texas: El Paso, Abilene Wisconsin: Lake Mills The grant program seeks to empower communities to create and maintain beautiful, sustainable, and functional outdoor spaces, emphasizing those in need. Through these grants, The Toro Company continues to build on its long-standing tradition of giving back to the communities where our employees live and work.