Public Spaces Community Places
Public Spaces Community Places supports Michigan communities through crowdfunded public-space improvements that expand accessibility, build community pride, improve quality of life, and strengthen local economies.
Funder: Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Due Dates: Rolling (Applications, until funds are disbursed) | Within 60 days of launch (Crowdfunding goal)
Funding Amounts: 1:1 matching grants up to $50,000; up to $75,000 for new universally designed spaces; event grants up to $7,500
Summary: Supports crowdfunded projects that create, revitalize, or increase universal accessibility of public spaces across Michigan.
Key Information: Applicants receive no matching funds unless their campaign reaches its crowdfunding goal.
Description
Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) is a public placemaking program developed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF), in partnership with the Michigan Municipal League. It combines donation-based crowdfunding through Patronicity with state matching grants, enabling residents and stakeholders to support improvements to places where people gather and spend time.
The program supports new or distressed public spaces and accessibility improvements to existing spaces. Eligible work includes streetscape beautification, walkability improvements, plazas, river walks, canoe liveries, piers, farmers markets, community kitchens, community or nonprofit retail incubators, alley rehabilitation, parks, bike paths, non-motorized infrastructure, bandshells, amphitheaters, community or nonprofit theaters, public Wi-Fi, place branding, and qualifying events. Its goals include building community pride, improving quality of life, attracting and retaining talent, and strengthening local economies.
