Community Improvement Initiative Grant Program

The Community Improvement Initiative Grant Program, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, aims to fund impactful projects with grants of up to $40,000. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, community groups, and individuals, provided they have a fiscal sponsor. This program prioritizes initiatives that enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the Saginaw County community, fostering collaboration and sustainable improvements.

NOTE: Submit the completed application electronically no later than 11:59 p.m. on May 1 (preferred) or via mail postmarked by May 1.
The Board of Directors’ Community Improvement Initiative, an SCF competitive grant program, will award up to $40,000 to one project. The projects submitted must create indelible, measurable impacts in the immediate and broader community; be supported and planned by a broad range of users; and have a clear, well-laid plan for success and sustainability.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, as well as individuals, community groups, neighborhoods, businesses and youth groups as long as SCF or another nonprofit is used as the fiscal sponsor.The individual must be part of a larger organization or group in order to apply for the grant. This grant is designed to encourage and motivate collaboration across a broad range of users to make an impact in the Saginaw County community.

Ineligibility

Grants usually do not support operating budgets, basic municipal services, basic educational functions, endowment campaigns, previously incurred debt and sectarian religious programs.
The foundation does not give grants to individuals, including requests for utility payments and food.
Low priority is given to requests for travel for groups such as school classes, clubs or sports teams.