Philanthropy at Michigan: We’re in this together

Student giving shapes U-M

Students like you come from far and wide to attend the University of Michigan, not only to receive an excellent education, but to make a difference in society. Leading in academics, research, and innovation, U-M plays an important role in driving positive change in our communities and around the globe.

Philanthropy is essential to creating a world-class Michigan experience, and students like you are a vital part of the tradition of giving at U-M.

U-M is a nonprofit organization that relies on private donations to succeed. The impact of philanthropy at Michigan helps shape the future, while inspiring you and fellow Wolverines to contribute to a brighter tomorrow. By giving through Michigan, you can support the causes you care about from sustainability to mental health to democracy—causes that are priorities of the Look to Michigan campaign. 

A person writes with a pink marker at a busy table in a building decorated with international flags.

Student giving shapes U-M

Students like you come from far and wide to attend the University of Michigan, not only to receive an excellent education, but to make a difference in society. Leading in academics, research, and innovation, U-M plays an important role in driving positive change in our communities and around the globe.

But we can’t do it alone.

U-M is a nonprofit organization that relies on private donations to succeed. The impact of philanthropy at Michigan helps shape the future, while inspiring you and fellow Wolverines to contribute to a brighter tomorrow. By giving through Michigan, you can support the causes you care about from sustainability to mental health to democracy—causes that are priorities of the Look to Michigan campaign. 

The power of students in philanthropy

Student philanthropy doesn’t just drive progress at U-M—it sustains it, too, with students making up 12% of the donors to the Maize & Blue Cupboard, supporting students facing food insecurity.

A smiling University of Michigan student getting groceries from the Maize and Blue Cupboard.
A smiling University of Michigan student getting groceries from the Maize and Blue Cupboard.

Student philanthropy doesn’t just drive progress at U-M—it sustains it, too, with students making up 12% of the donors to the Maize & Blue Cupboard, supporting students facing food insecurity.

$60,900+ raised in 2024 to support 30 Club Sport teams

239 student organizations collectively raised $650,521 in FY25 across Giving Blueday, Giving Tuesday, and other crowdfunding efforts

1,727 students made gifts across U-M in FY25—700+ on Giving Blueday alone

Stories of support

A person kneels in a vegetable field, digging potatoes out of the earth, surrounded by a small group of observers.

Food security for students, by students

Campus Farm, Maize and Blue cupboard team up to bring fresh, sustainable produce to campus.
Graduation cap adorned with an orange tassel and a gold “2025” charm.

Marching onto the world stage

U‑M graduates leave the Big House to pursue their big dreams.
Four students sit and talk on the steps in front of a campus building with “Giving Blueday” text overlaid.

U-M donors rally to support their passions

Giving Blueday united the U‑M community to support students, research, the arts, sustainability, health, and more.

Connecting through giving

I was a first-generation college student. There is no way I could have gone to college without the help of the staff and student help I got at U-M. I graduated in 1973 and have donated every year since I graduated from my postgraduate schooling at U of Oregon. It is a way to pay it forward.  –Terry

My time at Michigan changed my life in ways I didn’t realize until years later. I want future students to be able to realize this as well.

Support
affordability and access

Support U-M students by funding initiatives that ensure every Wolverine has the opportunity to excel academically, personally, and professionally. Make higher education more accessible and affordable, and empower the next generation of leaders to thrive without the burden of excessive debt.

for life-changing education
for health & well-being
for democracy, civic & global engagement
for sustainability & climate action
Look to Michigan

Look to Michigan logo.