Sports Development Grant
Funding Amount
Up to $25,000
Deadline
June 30, 2026
83 days left
Grant Type
foundation
Overview
Sports Development Grant
Overview: Grants up to $25,000 to support special events or qualified projects. The Sports Development Grant supports sports events and special projects that strengthen and elevate the 36-county Northern Michigan and Upper Peninsula region as a premier destination for sports, recreation, and tourism.
Purpose: Through this program, the Great Lakes Sports Commission provides financial assistance to organizations hosting impactful events and initiatives that align with the Commission's mission and contribute to the region's economic vitality, cultural enrichment, and overall quality of life.
- Region: 36-county northern Michigan region and Upper Peninsula
- Eligible Counties: Alcona, Alger, Alpena, Antrim, Baraga, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Chippewa, Crawford, Delta, Dickinson, Emmet, Gogebic, Grand Traverse, Houghton, Iosco, Iron, Kalkaska, Keweenaw, Leelanau, Luce, Mackinac, Manistee, Marquette, Menominee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Ontonagon, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Schoolcraft, Wexford
Geographic Scope
Eligibility Criteria
Location: Must take place within the 36-county northern Michigan region
Alignment: Must align with the program's goal of promoting sports and recreation development in the northern Michigan region
Impact: Must have the potential to generate significant economic benefits for the northern Michigan region
Timing:
Required Support Documentation: Applications should include a letter of support from either the local tourism or economic development office
Reporting: Recipients must submit a final report within 30 days of completion. If a final report is not completed, the applicant will be ineligible to receive future funding through GLSC
Eligible Uses of Grant Funds
Event Planning and Execution:
Marketing and Promotion:
Participant and Spectator Experience:
Community Engagement:
Other Event-Related Expenses: Grant funds can be used for other event-related expenses that directly contribute to the success and development of the project/event, as long as it aligns with program goals
Important Note: Grant funds must be used in accordance with the budget as submitted in the grant application. Any significant deviations from the approved budget should be communicated to GLSC for review and approval.
Award Determination
Maximum Award: $25,000; however, applying for a specific amount that covers project/event needs detailed in the application is highly recommendedSelection Criteria: The grant committee will consider project/event alignment with program goals, potential impact, feasibility, and funding availability
- Application Deadlines: March 31; June 30; September 30; December 31
- Grant Determinations: May 15; August 15; November 15; February 15
Review Schedule
- Website: greatlakessportscommission.org
- Email: info@greatlakessc.org
Contact Information
Organization Information
The Great Lakes Sports Commission's mission is to promote northern Michigan as a premier destination for sports, recreation, and tourism.How to Apply
Application Process
Step 1: Submit Complete Grant Application
Applicants must submit a complete grant application including:
1. Project or Event Details: Provide a detailed description of the project or event, including:
- Purpose
- Scope
- Expected outcomes
2. Budget: Present a clear and itemized budget for the project or event, including:
- Projected expenses
- Revenue sources
- Clear demonstration of how grant funds will be utilized
3. Impact Assessment: Describe the anticipated economic and community impact of the project or event on the northern Michigan region, including specific impact figures if possible
4. Marketing and Promotion: Outline strategies for:
- Promoting the event
- Attracting participants and visitors to the region
5. Supporting Documents:
- Letter of support from local tourism or economic development office (required)
- Budget overview document
- Any other details that strengthen the application
Application Form Fields
Applicant Information:
Organization Profile:
Project/Event Details:
Financial Information:
Required Attachments:
- Submission Format: Web form
- Minimum Advance Notice: 90 days before project/event start date
- Application Frequency Limit: One application per calendar year per applicant
Submission Details
- Applications will be reviewed by the GLSC grant committee
- Selection process considers: - Project/event alignment with program goals - Potential impact - Feasibility - Funding availability
Review and Selection
Post-Award Requirements
Final Report (Due within 30 days of completion):
1. Applicant Information (Name, Email, Phone, Organization, Address)
2. Amount Received
3. Event/Project Completion Date(s)
4. General overview of the project or event funded
5. Specific use of funds received and any deviations from grant agreement
6. Overview of economic and/or community impact results
7. Specific impact the grant funds had on the project or event
8. Final attendance, hotel room nights, and/or direct spending numbers (if applicable)
9. How Great Lakes Sports Commission's support was recognized
10. Final Event Financial Information (Total Revenues, Total Expenses, Net Income)
Consequences: If a final report is not completed, the applicant will be ineligible to receive future funding through GLSC
Focus Areas & Funding Uses
Fields of Work
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