Emerging Leaders United Microgrant Fund

A grassroots philanthropy initiative administered by Heart of West Michigan United Way's Emerging Leaders United (ELU) group that supports small, local nonprofits making a difference in West Michigan communities.

Geographic Scope: Kent County, Michigan

Focus Areas:

• Education
• Youth empowerment and development
• Mental health and wellness
• Family support services
• Homelessness prevention
• Equine/therapeutic learning programs

Program History:

• Celebrating 5 years of funding (as of 2024)
• Distributed more than $30,000 to 8 deserving local nonprofits since inception
• 2024 recipients: Girls Growing II Women and The Barn for Equine Learning

Eligibility:

• Small, local nonprofit organizations
• Organizations serving West Michigan region

Additional Benefits:

• Beyond funding, recipients gain opportunities to engage with emerging and young professionals throughout West Michigan for volunteer service and further engagement

Contact Information:

• For more information: www.hwmuw.org/emergingleaders
• Kevin Nelson, Sr. Donor Development Manager
• Logan Waller, Treasurer of ELU and Microgrant Fund Chair

Background:
The Microgrant Fund reflects ELU's commitment as the next generation of philanthropists to invest in organizations tackling community's most pressing issues. The initiative demonstrates grassroots philanthropy principles and provides a pathway of hope for local organizations.