Grants for 4-H clubs: What you need to know
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EmailWhen 4-H clubs need funding, grants are one option. Who is eligible to apply and how should the process begin?
Many 4-H clubs look for outside funding to support their programs and activities. Before moving forward, it is important to understand whether the funding you are seeking is considered a grant or a gift. This distinction matters because Michigan State University Extension has different processes and requirements for each.
A gift is a voluntary transfer of funds or property by a person or organization to support a 4-H group. Gifts or donations may be designated for a particular purpose or project area, but they do not include contractual obligations, reporting requirements or donor control, and funds that are not used do not need to be returned to the donor. Gifts and donations cannot be restricted to specific individuals.
If you determine outside funds are a grant and not a gift or donation, you must work with your local 4-H program coordinator prior to applying. As entities of MSU, all 4-H groups seeking funding are required to follow MSU’s policies for pursuing outside funds, including submitting a proposal through the MSU Grant Application and Management System. Your county 4-H program coordinator will work with your group to determine whether the grant aligns with the 4-H mission and meets university submission requirements.
If the opportunity is a good fit, MSU Extension staff will assist with writing and submitting the grant through the university system. Because this process can be time consuming, it is important to connect with your 4-H program coordinator as soon as you learn about this potential grant opportunity, preferably a minimum of six weeks prior to the grant deadline.
If your club is considering seeking outside funds to support its programming, Michigan 4-H Foundation mini-grants are a great place to start. These grants offer 4-H groups an opportunity to expand and enhance local programming. Mini-grants are designed to encourage program planning and participation by 4-H members, volunteers, and MSU Extension 4-H staff. Michigan 4-H Foundation grants are open annually from April 1 through June 1. As with any grant opportunity, 4-H groups must work with their local 4-H program coordinator to determine eligibility.
Some community and regional foundations may offer grant opportunities that support local 4-H programming, depending on their mission and geographical focus. These opportunities vary across the state and are not available to all groups. The Gerber Foundation is one example of a foundation that has invested in local 4-H programs. This example is provided for informational purposes only. All potential grant opportunities must be discussed with a local 4-H staff member before an application is pursued.
For more information on managing money at the club level, the Financial Manual for 4-H Volunteers: Leading the Way to Financial Accountability and the Financial Manual for 4-H Treasurer: A Guide to Managing Money Wisely offer guidance to help 4-H leaders and youth officers carry out their financial responsibilities with confidence.
MSU Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives. Learn more by visiting the career preparation, money management and entrepreneurship sections of the 4-H website.