Bridge Builders Neighborhood Microgrants

Focus: Creative community projects and events in neighborhoods

Purpose: Fund collaborative, creative projects that bring people together to celebrate, explore, or improve on what makes their communities special. Goal is to bring people out of their homes and into their community.

Geographic Scope: Michigan Municipal League member communities (nearly every city and village, as well as multiple urban townships in Michigan)

Eligibility:

• Individuals
• Informal groups
• Neighborhood organizations and associations
• Must be in MML member communities

Award Structure:

• Small, one-time microgrants of up to $1,000 per award
• Multiple awards available (10 microgrants in 2023 cycle)

What is Funded:

• Collaborative, creative projects or events in neighborhoods
• Projects that build bridges across the community
• Examples: neighborhood events, community gatherings, cultural celebrations

Background:
Program began as a pilot in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed to encourage acts of creativity, selflessness, and connection to help Michigan communities recover. The program has been so successful that it continues to offer funding annually.

Community Wealth Building Definition:
"Strategies that build community and individual assets, creating resilient and adaptable systems to address social and economic needs."

Application Process

• Applications are completed online
• Applications open March 13 (typical year)
• Application deadline: July 24, 2023 at 11:59 PM ET (for 2023 cycle; check website for current cycle dates)

Required Information

• Project description and goals
• How project brings community together
• Community impact
• Timeline and budget
• Applicant/organization information