The Carbon Fund was established through the generous ongoing support of the Ann Arbor Friends Meeting and other donors to provide mini-grants of $1,000 to $3,000 for climate pollution-reduction projects in economically disadvantaged communities.

By prioritizing support for projects in low-income and low-wealth communities, as well as communities of color, Michigan IPL seeks to advance equity as a core part of climate action. 

What is Climate Pollution and Why does it Matter?

Climate change is driven largely by the burning of fossil fuels for energy. "Climate pollution" includes air pollution and the greenhouse gases that trap heat in our atmosphere.  In our region, this results in hotter summers, more flooding, more severe weather, and increased infrastructure failure (power outages, flooded basements, and more).  These conditions lead to worse quality of life for our communities, especially those on the margins. 

What Kinds of Projects will be Considered?

• Projects that save energy (increase energy efficiency, reduce energy waste)
• Projects that model clean, renewable energy (like solar)

Eligible organizations:

• Are based in Michigan
• 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.  

Applications must:

• Describe a project you will implement that reduces fossil fuel use (such as an energy-efficiency project) and/or demonstrates the use of clean energy.
• include a clear and realistic budget (if the project requires the purchase of equipment, you know how much that equipment costs)
• demonstrate a readiness to expand 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

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

You can donate via the button below or by sending us a check. Write "Carbon Fund" in the memo line on your check and mail it to us at: 1950 Trumbull St, Detroit MI 48216.

Thank you!