Youth Endowment Grants
Forecasted
Youth Endowment Grants support organizations serving young people in five northwest Michigan counties, funding programs, projects, and operations that address youth-identified needs and priorities.
Funder: Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per county; $147,980 total available in 2026 ($29,596 per county)
Summary: Supports youth programs, projects, and operations addressing locally identified needs across five northwest Michigan counties.
Key Information: Applicants may seek support from multiple counties, with separate applications required when programs differ by county.
Description
The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation’s Youth Endowment supports youth causes and organizations in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties. Grants can fund programs, projects, or operational support responding to needs identified by local young people through the Youth Needs Assessment. Priorities include positive developmental opportunities, innovative offerings that do not duplicate existing county services, and work supported by both youth and community members.
Youth leadership is central to the program. Local high school students serving on county-based Youth Advisory Councils review applications and recommend how funds should be awarded in their counties. The Foundation’s Board of Directors provides final approval. Rotary Charities of Traverse City contributes to the awards through a gift supporting youth leadership and community-driven philanthropy.
