The Midland Area Community Foundation offers grants aligned with its mission to cultivate giving, support long-term transformation, and ensure all residents thrive in Midland County. The foundation emphasizes equity and prioritizes proposals that reduce barriers to services and increase access for underrepresented populations. It supports projects aligned with four focus areas: Building Livelihood (economic development and infrastructure), Caring for People (health and human services), Developing Talent (education and youth development), and Enriching Community (arts, culture, and environment).

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government entities that directly serve Midland County residents. The foundation provides funding through several grant cycles annually, with Community Investment Grants offering up to $60,000 and Youth Action Council Grants providing up to $10,000. Field of Interest Grants are tailored to specific charitable purposes with varying award amounts. Applications must demonstrate alignment with the foundation’s focus areas, commitment to equity, and potential for community impact.

Grant requests may cover program operations, capacity building, capital campaigns, and relevant wages or administrative expenses. However, funding does not extend to basic governmental or educational services, fundraising events, sectarian programs (unless community-based), political activities, previously denied proposals, or multi-year funding commitments. Applications must be submitted through the online portal, GOApply, and include a passcode obtained after a preliminary discussion with foundation staff.

Applicants are required to provide organizational details, project descriptions, budgets, and measurable goals. Supporting documents, such as IRS Form 990, financial statements, and letters of support, are also necessary. The foundation values trust-based philanthropy, focusing on relationship-building, transparency, and streamlining processes for applicants. All applications are reviewed, with decisions communicated within six weeks of each deadline.

For assistance or to discuss a potential proposal, organizations should contact the Director of Community Impact, Alysia Christy, at achristy@midlandfdn.org or call 989-839-9661. Additional resources and grant application guidelines are available on the foundation’s website.