Community Empowerment Small Grants (CESGs)

The Community Empowerment Small Grants (CESGs) by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County aim to strengthen local communities through grassroots initiatives. Designed for organizations with budgets under $100,000, these grants support projects such as neighborhood clean-ups, financial literacy classes, and community conversations. Eligible applicants include residents, neighborhood associations, and grassroots groups. Grants can range from $500 to $3,000, fostering educational advancement and enhancing community relationships.

NOTE: Selections will be made at the beginning of each month until funds are depleted.
Community Empowerment Small Grants are tools provided by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County to build a vibrant community with great opportunities for all. Community can be defined by identity, race, class and gender. This is an opportunity not only for neighborhood associations in Muskegon County, but also individuals who want to improve their community through education, beautification, relationship-building, community conversations, etc.
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.
Examples of projects/programs
Neighborhood book clubsCommunity clean-ups/beautification projectsFinancial literacy classesMarketing materials for resources, meetings, events and programsPrograms that build relationships and bring people togetherActivities that involve and support youth Professional development opportunities that build skills and capacityCommunity conversations and trainings
All grants awarded through discretionary funds are designed to strengthen community by aligning with the Community Foundation’s strategic focus areas of
advancing educational attainment, fostering a dynamic, local economy, and enhancing community trust and promoting prosperity for all.
Funding
Groups can request up to $3,000Organizations are only eligible for up to a maximum of $3,000 per yearTypical grants will be between $500-$2,000

Eligibility

Who is eligible:All applicants must be residents of Muskegon County
Any organized group of residents
Does not have to be a 501(c)(3)If a fiduciary is not available, please contact the Community FoundationThe start date of your project/program must be after the pay date.

Ineligibility

This grant is not meant for larger nonprofits.The Community Foundation does not usually award grants for:Regular operating expenses
Individual school buildings or districts
Religious programs that serve, or appear to serve, specific religious believers or require participants to practice or adhere to specific religious beliefs