Applying for
Community Grants

Scholarships

One application, dozens of scholarship opportunities. Learn how the Community Foundation can connect you with scholarships.

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Grant Cycles

Key dates and deadlines for submitting a proposal and applying for a community grant.

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Fluxx

Please note that Fluxx is being phased out and will no longer be available starting 8/22.
Learn more about our new platform, MyCF. 

Access the Fluxx Portal

We are committed to making our grant process accessible and transparent for all organizations.

Whether you’re new to the Community Foundation or a returning grantee, we encourage you to carefully review the focus areas, frequently asked questions and steps below before applying.

Two-Stage Process for Community Grants

The Community Grants Program at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan follows a two-stage application process. It begins with a proposal request, or initial inquiry, which allows applicants to briefly outline their ideas.

Based on these inquiries, selected organizations are invited to submit a full application. This structure enables the Community Foundation to efficiently assess proposed ideas, guide applicants toward the most appropriate funding opportunities, and reduce the effort required from organizations in the early stages of applying.

Step 1: Proposal Request (Initial Inquiry)

All applicants begin by completing a proposal request form, which includes:

  • Basic organization information
  • A brief summary of your funding request

You may submit up to two proposal requests.

Review Timeline:
We typically respond to proposal requests within 4–6 weeks.

If your idea aligns with our funding priorities, you will receive an invitation to submit a full application.

The proposal request stage is currently closed. The deadline for proposals was July 18.

Step 2: Full Application (By Invitation Only)

If invited, you will receive access to MyCF, our new application portal, and additional guidance from our team.

The full application includes:

  • A detailed description of the request
  • Organization and Grant Budget
  • Organizational documents (financial audit or review, board list, etc.)
  • Information on expected outcomes and how you plan to measure impact

We may also request a conversation with your team to learn more before making final decisions.

Learn more about MyCF

Grant Cycles and Deadlines

Proposals and applications must be submitted before 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date.

Spring 2026

  • January 5: Proposal Request Opens
  • January 23: Proposal Request Deadline
  • February 20: Full Application Opens for Accepted Proposals
  • March 13: Full Application Deadline
  • June: Grant Decisions Announced

Fall 2026

  • June 29: Proposal Request Opens
  • July 17: Proposal Request Deadline
  • August 7: Full Application Opens for Accepted Proposals
  • August 28: Full Application Deadline
  • November: Grant Decisions Announced

 

Tips for a Strong Proposal and Application

  • Be specific about the community need you are addressing and how your organization is best positioned to respond.
  • Align your proposal with one or more of our five focus areas and guiding principles.
  • Use data and storytelling to demonstrate both need and opportunity.
  • Plan ahead — proposals and applications must be submitted before 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date.

We’re Here to Help

Our team is here to support you through every step of the grant application process.
If you have questions about eligibility, application requirements, or timelines, please visit our Community Foundation FAQ’s site or reach out to the Community Impact team using the following form: