Mini-Grants

Colorful children's clothes on racks and hangers at the Fretail Store.

Mini-Grants help smaller organizations make a big impact in our community. If you're a 501(c)3 nonprofit or other eligible entity with an annual budget below $200,000, and your project primarily serves residents of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties, Michigan, we encourage you to apply. 
 

How It Works
Your grant request will be included in a catalog presented to Community Foundation fundholders and donors throughout the year. Fundholders may choose to support requests that align with their giving interests at any time. All requests close on December 31, whether or not they've been funded.

Eligibility & Guidelines

  • Eligibility is verified using the Federal Tax ID number you provide
  • Requests may be up to $5,000 for programming, operations, or project support
  • Event or festival sponsorships and other time-sensitive programs are not eligible

Tips for a Successful Application
Our donors review 35-40 Mini-Grant requests. To stand out, be clear and compelling in your application.

  • Be specific about impact. Tell us exactly what the money will do for your organization or the people you serve. Skip vague phrases like "helping those in need," "empowering youth," or "feeding the hungry."
  • Use numbers. How many people will you help? How often? For how long? Example: "This grant will provide 10 meals per month to 100 low-income Lansing residents for one year."
  • The more specific you are, the easier it is for donors to understand and support your work.

2026 MINI-GRANT TIMELINE:
 

  • The 2026 Mini-Grant application period is now closed.
  • Mini-Grant requests are published in our Funding Opportunities Catalog and presented to potential funders several times throughout the year for their consideration.
  • Grant applicants will be notified right away if their project is selected for partial or full funding.
  • All current Mini-Grant requests will close out on December 31, whether they have received funding or not.

SAMPLE Mini-Grant Application (for review only, do not submit)