Changing the world often starts by changing your community for the better. The Bridge Builders Microgrants program offers small, one-time microgrants to people or organizations within MML member communities. These microgrants fund collaborative, creative projects. The goal of any Bridge Builders project is to bring people out of their homes and into their community.

The program was really born out of the pandemic. The Michigan Municipal League Foundation saw the impact the pandemic had on small businesses, downtown districts, and artists. Foundation staff and leadership also saw how the pandemic widened social and emotional gaps. We knew that all across Michigan there were community members, local businesses, non-profits, and more who had great ideas to collaborate in their hometowns. This program provided funding and support to help turn these ideas into reality. And the resulting projects were so amazing that we knew we had to offer the program again! 

We're thrilled to offer a third year of microgrants! Program applications opened on Monday June 13 and close at 11:59pm ET on Sunday July 24th. We're offering funding under two categories this year: Neighborhood and Main Street microgrants.

Bridge Builders Neighborhood Microgrants: these microgrants award up to $500 to Michiganders living or working in a Michigan Municipal League member community to design and launch creative projects or events in their neighborhoods. We’re looking for projects that bring people together to celebrate, explore, or improve on what makes their communities special.

Bridge Builders Main Street Microgrants: these microgrants award up to $5,000 to Michiganders, Downtown Development Authorities, non-profits, or Commercial Improvement Districts in a Michigan Municipal League member community. Main Street Microgrants fund mini placemaking activities that bring together community residents, local artists, and small businesses. Applications must include at least one lead artist and at least three locally owned small businesses within a four-block radius of each other. Applications must also include a letter of support from a local government official.

Sometimes little things make the biggest impact and that's exactly what Bridge Builders supports—little things that bring people together. What could you do to bring your community together? What change could your community make for the better? Click here to learn more and get inspired!