NORTHERN MICHIGAN – Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce they are accepting applications for their bi-annual 2022 Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. This competitive grant program funds projects that protect the waterways and connect people to them. Potential projects must focus on stewardship, education, or increasing accessibility to the lakes and rivers.
Since 2015, Paddle Antrim has awarded over $25,000 to 17 projects that have made an impact on over 10 communities. The Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program is funded from income earned through Paddle Antrim events such as the Paddle Antrim Festival and kayaking safety classes. To be considered for the grant program, projects must be focused on the Elk River Chain of Lakes watershed or adjacent watersheds which impact Antrim County. Eligible applicants include Michigan-based non-profit organizations or governmental entities.
Past projects include installation of a rain garden in Ellsworth, design and installation of new interpretive panels for the Grass River Natural Area’s Nature Center, and funding towards the installation of the first universal access kayak launch on The Chain of Lakes Water Trail at Milton Township Waterfront Park. A list of completed projects funded by this Mini Grant Program can be found at www.paddleantrim.com/completed-projects.
“Through this program we have been able to steward our beloved waterways by funding projects that have a positive impact on access and quality of our beloved Northern Michigan waterways,” said Deana Jerdee, Executive Director of Paddle Antrim. “We are excited to see what projects are submitted this Fall.”
The 2022 Fall Grant round will fund up to $2,000 for eligible projects. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 pm on Monday, November 7, 2022 to be considered. Final decisions are announced in December. More information can be found online at paddleantrim.com/ripple-effect-mini-grants.
