MARQUETTE — The Superior Health Foundation has announced the release of its 2026 Requests for Proposals for two grant programs: the U.P. Health Impact Grant Program and the Equipment Grant Program. A separate AED Program will open on Feb. 1 with a first-come, first-served application process. Full RFPs and application materials are available at superiorhealthfoundation.org.

Any tax-exempt organization based in or working within the Upper Peninsula to improve regional health outcomes is eligible to apply. Preference is given to grassroots organizations, tribal communities, and small to medium-sized nonprofits.

U.P. health impact grants

The U.P. health impact grant program supports transformational health-centered projects across the Upper Peninsula. SHF is particularly interested in initiatives that strengthen the healthcare workforce, expand systemic access to care, and build community capacity to understand and address pressing health issues. In past cycles, SHF has funded projects such as healthcare workforce training, collaborative maternal and infant health efforts, regional health data collection, and other initiatives designed to improve health outcomes for U.P. residents. Awards typically range from $5,000 to $75,000, and organizations may apply for one or two years of funding.

Equipment grants

The equipment grant program helps Upper Peninsula organizations acquire essential health-related equipment that improves service delivery and community well-being. Examples include equipment that enhances health technology, improves transportation, strengthens treatment processes, increases accessibility, or supports programming expansion. Awards generally range from $500 to $10,000 and are reviewed quarterly.

The first 2026 deadline for U.P. health impact and equipment grants is Jan. 8 with three additional deadlines throughout the year.

AED program

SHF’s AED program provides lifesaving automated external defibrillator units to organizations in the U.P. that have public spaces, host group events, or serve a large number of older adults. Applicants will be asked to provide their EIN, proof of tax-exempt status, an estimate of the number of individuals they serve, the types of activities they host, and the intended location for the AED. Starting Feb. 1, devices will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with each organization eligible for one unit. Applicants must confirm they are prepared to cover ongoing costs such as battery and pad replacement.

How to apply

For full RFPs, eligibility requirements, and application instructions, visit superiorhealthfoundation.org.