Frederick S. Upton Foundation Big Idea Grant

Frederick S. Upton Foundation Big Idea Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Berrien Community Foundation
Amount: US $25,000 - US $50,000
Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Summary

The Frederick S. Upton Foundation Big Idea Grant offers two annual grants of $50,000 and $25,000 to nonprofit organizations in Berrien County. This program encourages innovative ideas and collaborative efforts to enhance community services. The Foundation, rooted in the philanthropic spirit of its founder, Frederick Upton, aims to improve the quality of life in the area. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits, schools, and government organizations, while capital building grants are excluded.

Overview

Frederick S. Upton Foundation Big Idea The Berrien Community Foundation provides grant services for the Frederick S. Upton Foundation. What's the Big Idea? The Big Idea Grant is a special grant program of the Frederick S. Upton Foundation. Each year the Foundation provides one $50,000 grant and one $25,000 grant to nonprofit organizations serving Berrien County. These grants support innovative programming and new ideas to enhance and serve our community in a Big way. Mission of the Frederick S. Upton Foundation The mission of the Frederick S. Upton Foundation is to uphold and perpetuate the wishes of its Founder: To love your communityTo be aware and perceptive as to what is needed – economically and culturally – to improve and enrich the quality of life of its inhabitantsTo work together as family members and trustees, serving others through the Foundation with wisdom and compassion History Frederick Stanley Upton made his living and lived his life in a near identical manner. As one of the founding fathers of Whirlpool Corporation, Frederick Upton began making his mark in the world before the Great Depression. He was industrious, ruggedly astute and driven, but never blinded by a passion to succeed. He led by example so others would see the virtues of dedication and hard work. In turn, Frederick Upton lived his personal life in much the same way. He inspired others to give the world the best because he believed the best would come back, time and time again. He was an important man who made sure all others felt important and welcome in his presence. His kindhearted demeanor resonated in his generosity, making it evident even to those who did not know him personally. It was obvious to all that Frederick Upton was a devoted philanthropist, steadfast in an innate desire to give back to his hometown. On November 30, 1954, the Frederick Upton family gathered to officially organize a foundation to bear the Upton name. Margaret Beckley Upton joined her husband at the table along with their two sons, David and Stephen. Family members continue to serve and comprise the entire board of trustees.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. This funding opportunity is open to 501(c)3 non-profit agencies, schools and government organizations.

Ineligibility

Funding for capital building grants will not be considered.