Community Empowerment Grants

More Information

Community Empowerment grants are designed specifically for grassroots groups that have an annual operating budget of less than $100k and designed to strengthen the community by removing barriers that may inhibit or limit a program from happening.

 

Grant Details

  • Organizations are eligible for up to a maximum of $3,000 per year (average award ranges $500-$2,000)
  • Grants are designed to support local grassroots or locally organized groups (e.g. Neighborhood Associations)
  • Awards will be funded directly to the nonprofit organization or fiduciary*
  • Collaboration with community and other nonprofit organizations is strongly encouraged
  • Grant funded programs must be available to the entire community
  • All applicants must be residents of Muskegon County

 

*A fiduciary is a nonprofit agency acting on behalf of an organized group that may be awaiting nonprofit (501c3 status). If your group is in need of assistance in identifying a fiscal sponsor/fiduciary, please contact the Community Foundation.

 

Grant Process and Timeline

 

  • Grants are reviewed and awarded each month – this is a “rolling timeline” until funds are depleted
  • The beginning of each month grants are reviewed by a staff committee
  • The second Monday of each month grants are awarded and paid to nonprofit or fiduciary
  • The start date of your program must begin AFTER the grant award is received (grants do not reimburse past expenses)
  • A follow-up form completed by the grantee will be due 30-days after the program’s completion

 

Examples of Past Projects

  • QPR Suicide Prevention Training
  • West Michigan Filipino Cultural Seminar
  • White Lake Dramatic Club Community Theater

 

Application is Open

Create a login to begin the application process. Contact Amy Moore with questions amy@muskegonfoundation.org or 231.332.4138

 

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