Emerging and Promising Practices

Through Emerging and Promising Practices, we seek to support innovative, cross-sector, interdisciplinary methods that address the cumulative impacts of social and environmental factors disproportionately affecting at-risk communities. We also aim to advance the creation of new knowledge regarding the conditions – social and environmental – that lead to health disparities. Projects that advance both theory and practice are of interest as well.

Primary emphasis is placed upon cross-sector or multi-field projects, such as those positioned at the intersection of environmental sustainability and health care; medical-legal partnerships; food systems and health; community design and development, including transportation and the built environment; mental health and public health; and climate change and health. The work in this area is purposely not narrowly defined so as to invite the broadest array of new and emerging project proposals.

Our funding process

Single year and multi-year funding of up to three years is available. The maximum, annual award is $250,000.  Grantseekers interested in multi-year awards must secure matching funds after the first year with Kresge providing a two-to-one match. Those awarded one-year planning grants for a particular project must demonstrate they have secured other funding prior to applying for additional support.

Letters of inquiry are accepted on an ongoing basis. Links to the Application Process and Apply Online pages are located in the purple bar at the top of this page.

If you have questions, e-mail our Grants Inquiry Coordinator or call 248-643-9630.