"Scott Family" Educational Support Foundation
Awards & Grants
Each year, the MGCA honors the most outstanding members and industry professionals of the past year. These individuals and businesses have helped preserve the tradition of the game while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the golf business.
We recognize the creative drive of individuals and golf courses by providing grants for Player Development Leadership and Entrepreneurship. All members are invited to submit applications for these grants, given at our Golf Business Conference.
2026 Nomination Timeline
August 28, 2026 ∙Awards & Grant nominations open
October 1, 2026 at 5pm ∙ Deadline to nominate
Contact Jada Paisley if you have any questions.
2026 Awards & Grants
About
Given for outstanding leadership, perseverance and business acumen in the Michigan golf industry. This special award has only been given ten times by the MGCA in 27 years.
Deadline
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2026 at 5pm.
About Recognizing MGCA's Golf Course Operator's initiative in player development and retention.
Win a $1,500 grant for your program!
Program Overview
Our goal is to tap into the passion, knowledge, and creativity of Michigan golf course operators, thereby stimulating an exchange of proven steps we can take to develop new golfers and new rounds. We want to reward the best on-going program that overcomes the non-golfer’s perceived barriers to playing golf such as: time, cost and intimidation. This recognition award will be presented to the MGCA member golf course that demonstrates creativity and success in growing the game.
Award Criteria
- Background-How did you develop the program and how long has it been in existence?
- Goals-What is the goal of your program? Who is your target customer?
- Innovation-What is innovative about your development program?
- Impact-How do you measure its impact or success?
Deadline
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2026 at 5pm.
About Recognizing an employee of a MGCA member for innovation and initiative in the support and development of the golf business in which they are employed. Examples: new product, service, system or operation, technology, etc.
Win up to a $1,000 grant for your program!
Program Overview
Our goal is to tap into the passion, knowledge, and creativity of the individuals who are employed at Michigan golf courses. John Dodge believed in and supported the entrepreneurial spirit found, sometimes, in unlikely places. Dodge believed in looking within your organization to find the talent and creativity to make your business something more than ordinary.
This scholarship was created with that in mind. We want to reward unique and innovative products, programs or services that make your golf course stand out. This recognition award will be presented to the staff member of an MGCA member golf course that demonstrates creativity and success. Each candidate must be actively engaged in the day-to-day operation of the business.
Award Criteria
- Background-How did you develop the program and how long has it been in existence?
- Goals-What is the goal of your program? Who is your target customer?
- Innovation-What is innovative about your development program?
- Impact-How do you measure its impact or success?
Deadline
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2026 at 5pm.
About
This award is named after one of the founders of the MGCA, a gentleman who helped to create a voice for Michigan golf course owners. The recipient of the award is an individual or company who has displayed distinguished service to the MGCA and the golf industry.
Criteria
70%-Service to the MGCA and Its Members
Demonstrated commitment to supporting the mission, programs, advocacy efforts, committees, events, membership engagement, and long-term success of the Michigan Golf Course Association.
Evidence that the nominee's efforts have created a positive and enduring impact on MGCA and members.
15%-Leadership & Industry Impact
Leadership that advances the golf industry through advocacy, innovation, mentorship, education, or professional excellence.
15%-Growth & Promotion of the Business of Golf
Contributions that help grow awareness, sustainability, economic vitality, and long-term success of the business of golf.
Deadline
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2026 at 5pm.
About
The Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award was established in honor of W. Bruce Matthews, the inaugural recipient in 1996, this award recognizes an individual or organization whose lifetime of steadfast leadership, service, and continuous commitment has made a significant and lasting impact on the Michigan golf industry.
Through his vision, expertise, and leadership, Mr. Matthews spread his expertise throughout the fairways of Michigan for many generations.. This award honors those whose careers reflect that same commitment to excellence and dedication that have led to a lasting legacy.
Recipients of the Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award have demonstrated a sustained record of achievement and service that extends beyond individual success, creating meaningful and enduring benefits for Michigan golf and its stakeholders.
Criteria
60%-Lifetime Contributions to Michigan Golf
Demonstrated career-long contributions that have advanced, strengthened, and supported the Michigan golf industry through sustained leadership, professional achievement, service, and commitment to the game.
Evidence that the nominee's contributions have created a positive and enduring impact on the Michigan golf industry, its stakeholders, and future generations.
25%-Leadership, Legacy & Industry Influence
Leadership that has positively influenced the golf industry through advocacy, mentorship, education, organizational leadership, professional excellence, or the development of future industry leaders.
15%-Service & Commitment to the Golf Community
Demonstrated commitment to serving the golf community through volunteerism, charitable efforts, industry involvement, community engagement, and support of golf-related organizations and initiatives.
Deadline
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2026 at 5pm.
(Formerly Outstanding Leadership Award)
About
MGCA knows that golf course operators value leadership that inspires, motivates, and drives excellence. Our Outstanding Leadership Award aims to recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities, contributing significantly to the success and positive culture of the golf course.
45%-Leadership Excellence
Demonstrated ability to lead with vision, integrity, accountability, communication, professionalism, and strategic thinking while fostering a positive and productive culture.
35%Impact on Organization & Team Development
Demonstrated success in strengthening operations, developing employees, mentoring future leaders, and creating a positive workplace environment.
20%-Industry & Community Influence
Positive influence within the golf industry, MGCA, and local community through engagement, collaboration, and leadership.
Deadline
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2026 at 5pm.