$9M awarded to strengthen and sustain Michigan museums

LANSING, Mich. -- The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) announced the recipients of $9 million in Community Museum Grant funding to support museums and nonprofit foundations across Michigan operating educational programs that foster artistic, scientific, technological or cultural exhibitions.  

"Museums are an essential part of Michigan’s cultural and economic fabric," said Susan Corbin, LEO director. "They spark learning, fuel creativity and strengthen communities — all of which support economic growth. This funding shows our commitment to helping museums not just stay open but grow as vital spaces for lifelong learning and connection." 

Recipients are receiving funding to support projects that stabilize, grow or enable museums to thrive in their educational and programmatic missions. The grant period spans from Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2029. 

Total award amounts: 

Detroit Zoological Society: $819,200

Ford Piquette Avenue Plant: $819,200

Michigan Humanities: $819,200

The Great Lakes Children's Museum: $345,526

The Henry Ford: $819,200

John Ball Zoo: $409,600

Flint Children's Museum: $106,862

Flint Institute of Science and History: $217,088

IQhub: $98,468

Charter Township of Fenton: $136,806

Detroit Public Schools Foundation: $819,200

Ionia County Historical Society: $108,954 

Michigan Military Technical and Historical Society: $36,277 

Michilimackinac Historical Society: $614,400 

Troy Historic Village: $399,770 

Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center: $819,200 

Barry County: $819,200 

Dexter Area Historical Society: $491,520 

Hamtramck Historical Museum: $95,558 

The War Memorial: $204,771 

“Michigan is home to over 650 museums — large and small, in every corner of the state. Each one serves as a hub for curiosity, discovery, and community connection,” said Lisa Craig Brisson, Executive Director, Michigan Museums Association. “Public funding helps these institutions expand access, engage more people, and deliver high-quality programs, while also attracting private investment that multiplies their impact. The grants awarded through this program will strengthen museums across Michigan and deepen their ability to serve their communities.” 

Funding for these grants was made available through an appropriation in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s FY 25 Budget.