The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program (MISGP) is a collaborative effort between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. This program focuses on addressing invasive species issues in the state by funding projects that support prevention, detection, eradication, and control efforts. The program seeks to minimize the impact of both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species on Michigan’s ecosystems, economy, and recreational opportunities. It is designed to strengthen statewide early detection and response networks, limit the spread of recently confirmed invasive species, and manage well-established invasive species.

The MISGP funds projects that align with the program’s strategic goals, including preventing new introductions, responding to early detections, limiting dispersal of confirmed species, and managing widespread invasions. Proposals are evaluated based on a combination of scoring criteria, project type, project metrics, geographic location, and available funding. Specific priorities and scoring details are outlined in the MISGP handbook.

Eligible applicants include local, state, federal, or tribal government entities, nonprofit organizations, and universities. State agencies intending to apply must contact the MISGP program coordinator before preparing an application. The program issues an annual request for proposals, with an open and competitive selection process.

For the 2024 funding cycle, the request for proposals will be issued on September 3, 2024, with full proposals due by November 1, 2024. Awards are anticipated in March 2025. Up to $3.6 million in total funding is available annually, with grant awards ranging between $40,000 and $400,000 depending on the project type. The minimum grant request is $25,000.

Applicants must apply through the MiGrants online system. The application process and specific program requirements, including project eligibility and evaluation criteria, are detailed in the 2024 MISGP handbook. A recorded webinar providing additional program details and funding priorities is available for reference.

The MISGP is authorized under Part 5 of Act 451, P.A. 1994, as amended. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Erin Campbell at 269-300-9698 or via email at CampbellE6@Michigan.gov.