Any tax-exempt organization working in the Upper Peninsula to improve health outcomes in the region can apply for a grant from SHF. 

We fund projects and initiatives that help improve health and well-being in the Upper Peninsula. This includes expanding access to care, community health programs, health education, and other initiatives that address local health needs. Each grant program’s RFP provides details on the types of projects we fund. Examples of previously funded projects for U.P. Health Impact Grants, Equipment Grants, and Care Access Grants are also available to review. 

Grant amounts vary by grant program. Each grant program page includes grant award size ranges, so applicants know what to expect before applying. 

U.P. Health Impact Grants and Equipment Grants have four deadlines throughout the year, and Care Access Grants have one deadline a year, usually in the early spring. Specific dates for each program are listed on their program page. Grant award recipients are usually notified 6-8 weeks after the application deadline. 

Applications are submitted through our online grant portal, which can be found here. Detailed instructions and required materials are provided with each funding opportunity to help guide you through the process. To apply for a U.P. Health Impact Grant, you will need a passcode, which is provided after a successful concept call or paper.

Yes! Click here to set up a concept call with Program Officer Nicky Bates. Concept calls or papers are required to apply for a U.P. Health Impact Grant and recommended but optional for Equipment and Care Access Grants.

1. They’re brief – 30 minutes for a call, 1-2 pages for a paper.

2. You only need to do one or the other, not both. If you prefer communicating verbally, set up a call with Program Officer Nicky Bates by clicking here. If you prefer communicating in writing, send a concept paper to nbates@shfmi.org.

3. They make sure that your project is aligned with SHF’s granting parameters before you take the time to submit a full application.

4. They are required to apply for a U.P. Health Impact Grant and recommended but optional for Equipment and Care Access Grants.

5. In either a concept call or paper, applicants should share their project ideas, goals, anticipated budget, and expected impact.

Strong applications clearly describe the community's need being addressed, how the project will improve health or well-being, and how success will be measured. We also look for thoughtful planning, realistic budgets, collaboration with other organizations, and alignment with our mission.

Grant applications are reviewed by SHF staff, grant committee members, and subject matter experts through a structured process that considers alignment with our mission, community impact, feasibility, and available funding. Final grant decisions are the sole responsibility of the SHF’s board of directors.

Absolutely. Not all applications can be funded in every cycle. Please set up a call with Program Officer Nicky Bates here (click) to discuss your project before reapplying. 

Funded organizations are typically asked to provide regular progress updates and a written final report. While requirements vary depending on the grant program and the length of your project, most reports can be done either through the grant application portal or through a check-in call. You will receive an automated e-mail reminder when reports are due.