Erb Foundation: Sustainable Business Grant

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering sustainable business growth in Southeast Michigan. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, the Foundation supports initiatives that leverage funding to create favorable conditions for small businesses. By promoting networking and resource sharing, and diversifying industries, they aim to enhance regional resilience. Since 2008, over $180 million has been awarded to initiatives aligned with their mission, with plans to spend down all assets by 2034 to facilitate impactful investments.

NOTE:  Our board currently reviews requests for funding three times a year, in January, May, and September. Grants requests typically take about four to six months to move from an initial conversation to consideration at a board meeting. The first step in our application process is a conversation with our program team. Please use the Contact Us button found here to begin.
Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation
The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation continues the legacy of two lifelong Southeast Michigan residents who were deeply committed to their community. Since 2008, the Foundation has awarded over $180 million to initiatives Fred and Barbara cared about most—supporting the environment, arts and culture, jazz education, sustainable business, and Alzheimer’s research.
In 2022, the Foundation made the strategic decision to spend down all assets by 2034, enabling bold investments in projects that address pressing needs and drive lasting change. It remains dedicated to working closely with its partners, fostering collaboration and continuing its commitment to meaningful progress.
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation envisions a flourishing, healthy, and resilient Great Lakes ecosystem and a culturally vibrant, sustainable Southeast Michigan. Toward this end, we strengthen the cultural and environmental organizations that share our vision to make this a reality for generations to come.
Grant Program Area: Sustainable Business
Promote sustainable business sector growth by:
Leveraging public and private funding to create favorable conditions for sector growth—such as access to capital—by balancing economic progress with environmental stewardship.Strengthening the ecosystem for small sustainable businesses through networking, resource sharing, and leadership development.Diversifying industries and sectors through research, pilot projects, and investments for a more resilient regional economy.