The Animal Welfare Fund Grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development funds projects that improve animal care, education, and welfare in Michigan’s registered animal shelters.
Funder: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (Annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: No set minimum/maximum; awards have historically totaled $2.1M to 357 shelters since 2010. Typical project budgets range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
Summary: Supports Michigan animal shelters with grants for spay/neuter, education, training, and care programs to improve animal welfare.
The Animal Welfare Fund Grant, administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), provides financial support to registered animal shelters across Michigan. The program aims to enhance the care, housing, and well-being of shelter animals by funding innovative projects that address local animal welfare challenges. Grants may be used for spay/neuter programs, public education, training for personnel, and care/protection initiatives related to state animal anti-cruelty laws.