We are taking grant applications for nonprofits that align with our mission to make a positive impact in Michigan by funding programs that support our state’s people, our planet, and Michigan’s prosperity.
We are investing in what’s most important to Michigan – its people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity. We award grants for capital funding and innovative projects and campaigns that align with our priorities for each.
Grant seekers are encouraged to review our priorities and ensure projects/programs align with the outcomes we seek. Metrics related to outcomes will be requested within the grant application.
Geographic Focus
We are primarily focused on communities in Michigan's Lower Peninsula where Consumers Energy has a business presence. We will consider requests from organizations located elsewhere for programs or projects that significantly benefit our state and the communities served by Consumers Energy.
What the Foundation Does Not Fund
There are legal and practical limits to what the Foundation supports. For example, the Foundation does not purchase tickets or make payments to events or celebrations to raise funds for charitable purposes, nor does it sponsor advertising supporting these efforts. The following is a list of requests that fall outside of the Foundation's scope.
PEOPLE:
Will your project/program contribute to reducing poverty levels/ALICE numbers in Michigan through increased high school graduation rates; increasing the STEM/skilled labor talent pool; or supporting our most vulnerable residents and providing them with pathways to self-sufficiency?
PLANET:
Will your project/program protect/preserve or restore land, freshwater bodies, or air quality in Michigan?
PROSPERITY:
Will your project/program contribute to Michigan’s economy by creating safe, desirable neighborhoods, supporting job growth and entrepreneurs, or attracting visitors?
Frequently Asked Questions
The Consumers Energy Foundation funds capital projects and provides program and operation support in alignment with our commitment to Michigan’s people, planet and prosperity. Our priorities include reducing poverty levels/ALICE numbers in Michigan by focusing on basic needs, education and workforce readiness; protecting/preserving Michigan’s land, water & air; and economic development by focusing on neighborhood revitalization, job growth, and arts and culture.
The majority of Consumers Energy Foundation grants are between $5,000 and $50,000. While most grants are one-time, some may be multi-year.
No. In evaluating grant requests, the Consumers Energy Foundation looks at the need for the project or program, the budget, how much is requested, the plan and its impact on people and communities. We weigh a variety of factors, including the statement of need, description of goals and objectives and the measurable impact, and may approve grants for less than the requested amount.
Because our resources are limited, the Consumers Energy Foundation encourages organizations to submit their top priority request for the year.
Once an internal review process has taken place, grant proposals are reviewed by the Consumers Energy Foundation’s board of directors on a quarterly basis, generally at the end of each quarter. Once a decision has been made, applicants will be notified whether their grant proposal has been accepted or declined.
Yes. You are encouraged to call if you have questions about the application process, our guidelines and deadlines or to see if the program or project is something we might support.
Catherine Wilson
Secretary/Treasurer
Consumers Energy Foundation
One Energy Plaza, EP8-210
Jackson, MI 49201
Phone: 517-788-0432
foundation@cmsenergy.com
No, the Foundation does not award grants to individuals.
No. The Consumers Energy Foundation supports a small number of minority scholarship programs through outside organizations. Applications for these scholarships are available through financial aid offices at participating institutions.
There are no specific grant deadlines.
No. The Consumers Energy Foundation provides financial support primarily to Michigan organizations that are classified by the Internal Revenue Service as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
There are several hundred school districts within Consumers Energy service area. Because our resources are limited, we are unable to award grants for individual schools, however if you currently have a Consumers Energy employee or retiree actively volunteering at your school they may be eligible for a volunteer grant for your school through our Volunteer Investment Program.
