Eastern Upper Peninsula, MI — 10/1/2025 — The EUP Promise Zone is proud to announce its official launch as one of Michigan’s 15 designated Promise Zones. This transformative initiative is designed to provide financial support for post-secondary education to every graduating student within the EUP Promise Zone, while also fostering local economic growth and retaining young talent in the region.
The EUP Promise Zone is a public-private partnership authorized by Michigan legislation, with a mission to reduce financial barriers to higher education and create a more vibrant, qualified local workforce. By offering scholarships and tuition assistance, the Promise Zone ensures that students from all backgrounds have access to opportunities beyond high school.
A Promise to Our Students and Communities
The EUP Promise Zone will begin by offering $500 last-dollar scholarships to eligible students attending Bay Mills Community College or Lake Superior State University. These scholarships will be available for 2026 and 2027 graduates. They will be funded through local contributions totaling $102,500 annually during the initial phase.
In Phase Two, beginning in year three, the Promise Zone will become eligible for state funding through the Michigan State Education Tax (SET). This funding is based on the growth of the State Education Tax (SET) within the Promise Zone boundaries. As SET increases, the Promise Zone captures 50% of that growth. The intent is to expand the Promise, in future years, to other educational entities in Michigan, including trade schools.
Who Qualifies?
Any student graduating from a school registered with the Eastern U.P. Intermediate School District—including public, private, and home schools—is eligible to apply for the scholarship.
Why Bay Mills and LSSU?
● Community College tuition is currently free for Michigan graduates enrolled full-time. This defrays the cost to meet the Promise.
● The Promise Zone aims to keep students local, supporting regional development.
● The funding model is based on enrollment history and projected costs.
Governance and Development
The EUP Promise Zone is governed by an 11-member board responsible for creating and updating the Development Plan, which outlines the scope of financial support offered. This plan is submitted to the Michigan Department of Treasury and serves as a binding commitment to students and families.
Investing in Our Future
Contributions to the EUP Promise Zone directly benefit local students and remain within the community. Donors can be assured that their support helps build a stronger, more educated workforce in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
How to Donate
Donations can be made online at https://www.chippewacountycommunityfoundation.org/donate/ or mailed to:
EUP Promise Zone
c/o Chippewa County Community Foundation
PO Box 1979
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Receipts will be provided for all contributions.
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About the EUP Promise Zone The EUP Promise Zone is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable for all students in the Eastern Upper Peninsula. Through strategic partnerships and community support, the Promise Zone is building a brighter future—one graduate at a time.