The Carbon Fund was created-- thanks to generous ongoing support from the Ann Arbor Friends Meeting and others-- to provide mini-grants of $500 to $5,000 to economically disadvantaged communities to implement climate pollution-reducing projects.
Supporting emissions-reducing projects in low-income/low-wealth communities and in communities of color is one way Michigan IPL seeks to center equity in climate action.
Eligible organizations:
- Own the building or site in which the project is being proposed
- Represent an economically disadvantaged community (e.g., a congregation whose members are predominantly people of color or low-income/low-wealth). Organizations that serve, but are not made up of, economically excluded community members are not likely to be selected to receive this grant.
Strong applications demonstrate:
- a clear project idea
- a realistic budget
- an enthusiasm for expanding the project's impact by using it to grow awareness about energy issues, the climate crisis, and/or our moral duty to care for the interconnected web of life
How to apply
If you or your organization is interested in applying, please complete the application form:
Carbon Fund Mini-Grant Application Form
Past grants
Our Carbon Fund has supported the installation of solar powered exterior lights at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Pilgrim Baptist Church (pictured above), and Lord of Lords Christian Ministries in Detroit. The Carbon Fund has also supported a solar streetlight and public high speed wifi project at Avalon Village in Highland Park.
Other considerations
Projects that are high-visibility or that are integrated into programming or communications—in other words, projects that also inspire and grow awareness beyond your congregation—are especially encouraged.
How to contribute to the Carbon Fund
Make a gift to the Carbon Fund online OR just write "Carbon Fund" in the memo line on your check and mail it to us at: 1950 Trumbull St, Detroit MI 48216. Thank you!