EmpowerMENt Fund: Investing in Opportunity, Belonging, and Educational Success

The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is now accepting grant applications for the EmpowerMENt Fund, through Friday, May 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST. This fund supports efforts that uplift young Black males in Washtenaw County by investing in educational success, leadership development, and long-term opportunity.

Rooted in extensive community input, the EmpowerMENt Fund reflects a commitment to addressing inequitable outcomes while honoring the strengths, assets, and contributions of young Black men in our community. Rather than focusing on deficits, this initiative centers on empowerment, collaboration, and holistic support systems designed to help students thrive.

Centering Equity and Opportunity

This fund is grounded in the belief that equitable outcomes require intentional investment. As Amina Iqbal, Senior Community Investment Officer, shares:

“Equity must remain at the center of how we invest in young people. When we intentionally design opportunities that reflect their lived experiences, we create the conditions for real growth, leadership, and long-term success.”

This work is also aligned with AAACF’s broader S.E.E.D.S. initiative, which reflects a commitment to strengthening community voices, centering equity, expanding reach, developing youth, and securing the future through impact investing. Together, these values guide how AAACF continues to invest in long-term community impact.

Priority Areas of Support

The EmpowerMENt Fund supports programs serving middle school through post-secondary students, with emphasis on mentorship and relationship-building, academic and college readiness, vocational and skilled trades pathways, and wraparound supports such as mental health, social-emotional development, and family engagement.

Priority is given to community-based approaches that actively engage young Black males in program design and leadership. Programs that are rooted in trust, consistency, and lived experience are especially encouraged, as these elements are essential to meaningful and lasting impact.

Funding Details and Application Information

Available funding includes approximately $80,000 total, with individual grants of up to $10,000 per organization. Programs must serve Washtenaw County, and only one application per organization will be considered.

Applications open April 7, 2026, and must be submitted by Friday, May 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST through the AAACF NonProfit Portal. New applicants are encouraged to create an account early and review the Applicant Tutorial to ensure a smooth submission process.

Questions about the EmpowerMENt Fund can be directed to Amina Iqbal, Senior Community Investment Officer, at aiqbal@aaacf.org

Through the EmpowerMENt Fund, AAACF continues its commitment to strengthening community-led solutions and investing in a more equitable future for Washtenaw County - where young people are not only supported, but empowered to lead and shape what comes next.