Grant Opportunities
The Keweenaw Community Foundation currently offers two grant opportunities to support programs, projects, and initiatives that strengthen our community. Explore the opportunities below to learn more about each grant, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Fall 2026 Grant Cycle
The Keweenaw Community Foundation invites proposals for its Fall Grant Cycle, supporting impactful projects across a range of community priorities. The Fall Grant Cycle grants from a variety of our Field of Interest Funds, including: KCF’s Community Impact Fund, the Environmental Fund, Copper Shores Community Health Foundation Community Wellness and Outdoor Recreation Fund, Joe Freed Empowerment Fund, and more. Review the application to see if your project aligns with one of our areas of impact and KCF will match your project to the appropriate funding source.
Eligibility
Nonprofit organizations, schools, municipalities, and community organizations serving Houghton and/or Keweenaw counties
Organizations outside this area that seek funding for projects must occur in Houghton/Keweenaw Counties
Important Dates
September 1, 2026: Online application opens.
September 9, 2026 at 4:30 pm: Grant Open House at Keweenaw Community Foundation office
October 15, 2026 at 11 pm EST: Grant application closes
End of November 2026: All applicants will be notified about funding decisions
December 1, 2026: Awardees publicly announced
Selected grant recipients will receive further instructions.
Community Connection Grant
The Keweenaw Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council is offering a NEW unique grant opportunity for fall 2026. With $45,000 in funding awarded to KCF by the Trust for Civic Life, YAC has committed an additional $5,000 from its own granting budget to create a one-time grant opportunity totaling $50,000. This funding will support projects that bring people together and create meaningful connections within and across local communities, awarding KCF $45,000 for a grant campaign. The Youth Advisory Council has matches.
Eligibility
Nonprofit organizations, schools, municipalities, tribal nations, and community organizations serving Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon counties.
Important Dates
September 28, 2026: Grant application opens online
November 1, 2026, 11:30 pm EST: Grant application closes
End of November 2026: All applicants will be notified about funding decisions
December 1, 2026: Awardees publicly announced and checks mailed out
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes! If you meet the eligibility criteria and your project aligns with both grant application requirements, you may apply for both grant opportunities.
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Yes, it is possible to receive partial funding from both grant opportunities. If your project is awarded the full amount from the Fall Grant Cycle, your project will not be considered for the Community Connection Grant Cycle.
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The maximum award for a single project is $10,000.
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Yes! We encourage organizations to submit two or more projects if they are unique and distinct from one another. This will give each project the opportunity to be reviewed and funded.
Requirements for Awarded Grants
What happens next? If you are awarded a grant, the next step is to e-sign the “Acceptance of Grant Agreement,” now available online. See your award letter for details.
The Foundation's policy is to disburse grant money when required by the recipient organization. When the need arises, submit a request for your grant check using this NEW form. Please provide evidence and maintain sufficient documentation to demonstrate compliance with the request.
Project Report
For the Foundation to maintain an ongoing flow of funding, grants obligated or encumbered should be distributed within twelve (12) months from the award date. Otherwise, the grant will be rescinded.
A report with your grant number is required within 30 days of funds being disbursed or of the project being completed. Please contact us if you need an extension. NEW: submit your grant report online or schedule a 1:1 conversation with the Director of Programs!
Photos: Please include a few photos of your project when you submit the report to be included in the publicity of our granting program. We would prefer pictures with people, but be sure to have consent to share.
Attention all 501(c)(3) and other nonprofit-status organizations: To stay up to date on when our next grant cycle is available, sign up for our email newsletter.
Have Questions?
For more information or questions about grants, please contact Madelina DiLisi, Director of Programs.