Enhance Your Leadership!

Pontiac Professional Grant

The Pontiac Community Foundation (PCF) empowers leaders by providing Pontiac Professional Grants to Oakland County professionals in order to participate in Leadership Oakland’s Annual Cornerstone Program. The Cornerstone Program, which spans nine months, offers a transformative experience, exposing participants to current regional resources and issues. It prompts deep introspection, encouraging individuals to consider their personal and group leadership growth, and take meaningful actions. This program is designed for talented, committed professionals who are driven to strengthen their leadership abilities and make a positive impact on their organizations and community. Pontiac residents who possess this exceptional prowess and a genuine desire for leadership are strongly encouraged to apply for the Pontiac Professional Grant , as PCF aims to support and empower leaders in their pursuit of growth and community betterment.

In 2023, Pontiac Community Foundation will award one (1) community member a full scholarship to attend the Leadership Oakland’s Cornerstone Program. 

Application Timeline & Section Process: The Pontiac Professional Grant Program application will open on June 16th, 2023 and will remain open for two weeks, until July 15, 2023.  Application responses will be collected via a Google Form that will be available on Pontiac Community Foundation’s website, www.pontiaccommunityfoundation.org

Applications are due by July 15, 2023.

Pontiac Community Foundation will select a Pontiac Professional Grant recipient by July 28th, 2023. All Pontiac Professional Grant applicants will be noticed regarding the status of their application once a grant recipient has been selected.  

The Pontiac Professional Grant application process is competitive.  Timeliness and presentation of applications will be considered.  All applications received will be reviewed and scored by the Pontiac Professional Grant Committee.

How to Apply: Review the PCF Grant Guidelines to ensure you qualify to be considered for a grant. All grant applications should be completed online.  The application must be typed and transmitted electronically. Be sure to answer all questions on the grant application.

FAQ’S:

Who qualifies for the Leadership Oakland Grant?
All Pontiac professionals over the age of 18.  Those demonstrating a desire to grow their leadership capacity and those with an expressed need for financial assistance are especially encouraged to apply.  Pontiac residents and minority individuals are strongly encouraged to apply.

When should I apply for the Leadership Oakland Program?
Applicants for the Pontiac Community Foundation Grant should apply for both the PCF Grant and the Cornerstone Program at Leadership Oakland, concurrently.  Please indicate on your Leadership Oakland Application that your participation is pending receipt of a grant from the Pontiac Community Foundation.  You do not need to submit the $250 deposit to Leadership Oakland, that will be covered by the Pontiac Professional Grant, should you receive it. 

Does the grant cover 100% of the Cornerstone Program tuition?
All applicant expenses will be covered ($3,500.00) for the 2023 grant program.  Participants must cover any travel expenses to and from in-person events and secure access needed for electronic meetings. 

What other requirements will I have in receipt of this grant?
The Pontiac Community Foundation expects full participation for those who receive the Pontiac Professional Grant.  Those that do not follow through with their commitment to the Cornerstone Program could have their funding suspended.

What happens to my Cornerstone Program Application if I do not receive the PCF Grant?
You may still be accepted to the Cornerstone Program at Leadership Oakland even if you do not receive the PCF Grant.  Leadership Oakland has limited funding available for scholarship and you will be encouraged to apply.  If you still do not receive enough funding to participate in the Leadership Oakland program, you may withdraw your participation and consider applying for a grant to participate in the 2024 program.    

Who can I speak to with questions regarding the Pontiac Professional Grant Program Application Process? Questions regarding the Pontiac Professional Grant Program may be directed to Program Director Sarah Niskanen at [email protected]. Questions regarding Leadership Oakland’s Cornerstone Program may be directed to Susan Hollady at [email protected].

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