Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) Fund Application

Our DEI Fund is dedicated to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties as well as the sovereign nation of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

We believe diversity encompasses, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, economic circumstances, zip code, age, health and ability status, neurodiversity, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, resident or immigration status, national origin, veteran status, and religion.

We are committed to using our leadership, resources, and voice to build toward a better future where all people across our region have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Learn more about our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Photo credit: Arts for All of Northern Michigan, one of our DEI Fund grant partners

About Our DEI Fund

Our DEI Fund supports diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across the region, including primarily providing support for organizations led by community members of color, including Black and Indigenous people, as well as LGBTQ+, immigrant, neurodiverse, veteran, and/or disability community members. We also consider other partners, programs, trainings, and opportunities promoting equity and inclusion.

Grant Eligibility

Nonprofit, educational, governmental, and Tribal entities across Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau Counties as well as the sovereign nation of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians are eligible to apply by submitting an online application. Applicants are also welcome to submit a video instead of written responses.
Grant requests for up to $2,500 will be considered.
Grants to an organization cannot exceed $2,500 in a calendar year (and so an organization could receive two or more grants with an annual total of $2,500 within the same calendar year).

What We Fund

General operating support for organizations led by community members of color, including Black and Indigenous people, as well as LGBTQ+, immigrant, neurodiverse, veteran, and/or disability community members.
Events that increase awareness and provide education about communities of color, including Black and Indigenous people, as well as LGBTQ+, immigrant, neurodiverse, veteran, and/or disability communities.
Efforts that increase the effectiveness, voice, and visibility of communities of color, including Black and Indigenous people, as well as LGBTQ+, immigrant, neurodiverse, veteran and/or disability communities.
Programs or projects that promote equity and inclusion.
DEI trainings or learning opportunities.Please note that priority will be given to organizations hiring a community member of color, including Black and Indigenous community members, to facilitate the training.

Note: We are unable to provide grants to individuals.

Grantmaking Process

Grant decisions are made by a local review committee with a diversity of representation from community members of color, including Black and Indigenous people, LGBTQ+ community members, disability community members, allies, and equity leaders and advocates from across the five-county region.
According to Community Foundation policy, all grants are reviewed and accepted by our Board of Directors. Board acceptance must occur prior to funds being awarded.

Apply Now

Grant applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and reviewed quarterly. Application deadlines are March 1, June 1, September 1, December 1. The DEI Fund Advisory Committee meets and reviews applications in March, June, September, and December.