Small ideas can help build a stronger community

LAPEER — Marking three decades of local philanthropy, the Lapeer County Community Foundation is launching a $30,000 microgrant initiative designed to turn grassroots community ideas into reality.

The newly established Lapeer County Bridge Builders Microgrant Program aims to fund creative, collaborative projects that foster local connections, boost civic participation, and enhance shared public spaces across the county.

The initiative was inspired by the Michigan Municipal League Foundation, which invited LCCF to participate in its broader Bridge Builders framework to showcase how cross-sector partnerships between local governments and philanthropic groups can drive community development.

“It doesn’t take a lot of dollars to make a change,” said Nancy Boxey, Executive Director of the Lapeer County Community Foundation. “Bridge Builders gives local people and organizations an opportunity to turn their ideas into action — and to create something meaningful for the community they call home.”

The $30,000 pool is divided into two distinct funding tracks:

• Community microgrants: Ten individual grants of up to $1,500 will support neighbor-led projects, cultural celebrations, or small improvements to make public spaces more welcoming. A wide variety of applicants are eligible, including schools, non-profits, faith-based groups, local governments, libraries, neighborhood associations, service clubs, and informal groups of residents.
• Main street microgrants: Three grants of up to $5,000 will focus on downtown districts and commercial corridors. Funding can be used for public art, cultural performances, temporary installations, creative window displays, or interactive experiences like walking tours and wayfinding. Eligible applicants include Downtown Development Authorities, commercial districts, municipalities, and local businesses. Main Street proposals must feature a creative contributor, support from at least two local brick-and-mortar businesses, and a letter of support from a civic leader.

LCCF officials emphasized that project eligibility remains broad so residents and leaders in different municipalities can tailor projects to their specific local needs.

Applications opened Sept. 9 and close Oct. 31. Grant recipients will be officially announced Dec. 1 during LCCF’s 30th anniversary Celebration of Giving. Approved projects must start on or after Jan. 1 and wrap up by Sept. 30, 2027.