Wisconsin Private Grants

This grant provides funding to organizations in Green Lake County and the City of Ripon that assist vulnerable residents by offering essential resources like food, shelter, and support services to promote stability and self-sufficiency.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to dairy farms and processing facilities in select Midwestern states to promote product development, diversification, and value-added dairy innovations.

The Madison Community Foundation's Community Impact grants are designed to advance initiatives that create long-term positive impact on the community and the lives of its residents. This aligns with MCF's broader mission to strengthen innovative or high-performing nonprofits and invest in initiatives and natural and cultural assets that foster a thriving community. The grants are aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in greater Madison through five key focus areas: Arts & Culture, Community Development, Environment, Learning, and Organizational Capacity Building. The target beneficiaries of these grants are primarily residents and organizations within Dane County, Wisconsin. For example, Arts & Culture grants support Dane County's vibrant arts scene, while Community Development grants enhance quality of life by strengthening local assets and building community bonds. Learning grants support K-12 academic achievement and out-of-school programs, and Organizational Capacity Building grants aim to strengthen the infrastructure and long-term impact of Dane County nonprofits. The overarching impact goal is to create a more vibrant, equitable, and sustainable community. The program prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate a long-term impact on residents or physical environments in Dane County, with meaningful, reasonable, and measurable outcomes. Innovative approaches to community issues are encouraged, as are projects that strengthen community assets, build self-sufficiency, attract additional funding, and utilize partnerships or collaborations. The foundation's strategic priority is to support programs that are sustainable beyond the scope of the initial grant, fostering lasting change within the community. This indicates a theory of change that emphasizes empowering organizations and initiatives to create enduring positive effects. Grants are categorized into three broad types: Program Grants for new or expanding successful programs, Capital Grants for facility and land acquisition or renovation, and Endowment Challenge Grants to build capacity and sustainability by leveraging additional funds. Eligibility requires organizations to be public charities or governmental bodies (501(c)(3) exempt), located within Dane County (with an exception for endowment challenge grants if the fund resides at MCF), and to conduct business without discrimination. This ensures that the grants support a diverse range of impactful projects while adhering to strong ethical and operational standards.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and governmental bodies in select Wisconsin counties to improve health and prosperity in their communities.

The Platteville Community Fund, established in 2002 by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, is a permanent, unrestricted charitable endowment dedicated to enhancing various aspects of community life in the Platteville area. Its mission aligns with supporting projects that enrich the arts, education, health and human services, the environment, and historic preservation. This broad focus allows the fund to address a diverse range of community needs and contribute to the overall well-being and cultural vibrancy of Platteville. Annually, a portion of the Fund's earnings is distributed back to the community in the form of grants. These grants target non-profit organizations, the local school district, and/or local government agencies that provide charitable programs or projects serving the community. The impact goals are centered on fostering community development and addressing specific concerns within Platteville, as evidenced by entities like the PHS Scholarship Fund, created in 2010, and the Platteville Excellence in Education Endowment Fund. The fund's strategic priorities include empowering local citizens to support charitable interests through various focused funds, as well as providing essential funding for the Platteville School District's educational needs not covered by the regular budget, exemplified by the EIE fund's inception in 2021. The theory of change suggests that by providing accessible grant funding and facilitating community-driven initiatives, the fund can significantly strengthen the social, cultural, and educational infrastructure of Platteville. The expected outcomes of these grants include improved access to arts and cultural programs, enhanced educational opportunities, better health and human services, a healthier environment, and preserved historical assets. While specific measurable results for all grant categories are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the existence of funds like the EIE fund with an initial grant of over $30,000 indicates a commitment to substantial financial support and measurable educational impact within the school district. The advisory board, composed of volunteer citizens, plays a crucial role in initiating fundraising and determining grant awards, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to achieve these community-focused goals.

Grant Name: Teachers' Outdoor Environmental Education Fund Funding Organization: Wisconsin Conservation Foundation Contact Information: Lindsey Taylor, Conservation Programs Coordinator - Phone: (608) 409-3145 - Email: [email protected] Program Intent: The Teachers Outdoor Environmental Education Fund aims to provide meaningful outdoor environmental education learning experiences for public school students in Wisconsin. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate a clear connection to classroom learning and standards, as well as those that have a significant component of outdoor activity. Award Details: Grants of up to $1,000 are available for eligible projects. A one-to-one match is required, which can include in-kind support such as volunteer hours or donated materials. Only one application per school per year will be accepted. The grant is renewed annually, with a deadline for applications on May 1st. Applicants will be notified within six weeks. Eligibility: - Applicants must be teachers at a Wisconsin public school (K-12). - Projects must address the grantmaking priorities and meet the eligibility requirements. - Proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter) or a letter of support from the school administration should be included with the application. To apply, complete the application form (paper copies not accepted) and submit all materials to Lindsey at [email protected] by May 1st. Note: This grant opportunity is specifically for nonprofits seeking funding for outdoor environmental education programs in Wisconsin public schools.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in the Eau Claire area for high-impact projects that improve the quality of life for local residents.

Established in 1996, the Evansville Fund is a permanent charitable endowment aimed at supporting the Evansville community across various domains, including the arts, education, health and human services, and historic preservation. Through its annual earnings, a portion is allocated as grants to enhance community welfare, distributed to non-profit organizations, the local school district, and government agencies. The fund is characterized by its diverse Family of Funds, each established by individuals or organizations to support specific charitable objectives within Evansville. Grants are awarded annually in November by a volunteer board responsible for fundraising and grant decisions. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: October 1st

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide stable housing and empower low- and moderate-income communities, focusing on vulnerable populations such as working families, youth, seniors, and veterans.

This program provides financial support to LGBTQ+-owned and allied restaurants, cafes, and bars to help them thrive and recover.

This grant provides funding for organizations in Minnesota and Wisconsin to implement impactful water quality improvement projects and promote environmental stewardship within their communities.

The Lake Mills Area Community Foundation, founded in 1996, is a philanthropic organization dedicated to the enrichment of the community. The Foundation receives its funds in the form of both current gifting and bequests through estate planning. Grant requests may be submitted to the Foundation at any time. The foundation will act on submitted proposals in timely manner. However, requests received less than two weeks prior to the next scheduled Board meeting may result in review and consideration at a subsequent Board meeting

This funding opportunity provides financial support to tribal governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions for solar energy projects that enhance energy independence and benefit low-to-moderate income communities.

This funding program provides financial support to community-based organizations that empower youth aged 12 to 20 through established, youth-led urban greening initiatives focused on social and environmental justice in select states.

The Platteville Community Fund, established in 2002, is a permanent, unrestricted charitable endowment aiming to enhance the quality of life in the Platteville area. With over $1,141,000 awarded in grants since its inception, the fund supports community projects across a broad range of areas including the arts, education, health and human services, the environment, and historic preservation. The Platteville Excellence in Education Endowment Fund, part of this family of funds, specifically addresses the educational needs within the Platteville School District that are beyond the scope of the regular school budget. Grants are awarded twice a year to non-profit organizations, the local school district, and/or local government agencies providing charitable programs or projects serving the community. Grant renewed every year. Grant Fall annual deadline:September 15th

The James E. Dutton Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to providing financial support for projects that benefit wildlife, animal causes, environmental preservation, and outdoors education. Its mission is deeply rooted in positively impacting the environment, domestic animals, wildlife, and human life, particularly through nature-related activities and education. The foundation aligns its grant-making with these core values, ensuring that funded initiatives contribute to the well-being of the natural world and foster a deeper connection between humans and nature. The target beneficiaries of the Dutton Foundation's grants include organizations working to enhance the environment, protect wildlife, and support animal welfare. Additionally, programs that educate and engage human life through nature-related activities are key recipients of their funding. The foundation's impact goals are centered around measurable positive changes in these areas, striving to improve environmental health, animal care, and public awareness of natural issues. Success is measured by how well grants positively impact the environment, wildlife, and animal life, or enhance human life through nature-related activities and education. The foundation's priorities and focus areas are clearly defined, encompassing Care of Animals, Environment Health, Land Management, Research, and Education, Public Awareness, and Recreational initiatives. These areas reflect the strategic priorities of the Dutton Foundation, which seeks to address critical needs in conservation, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. The foundation's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in these focus areas, it can contribute to a healthier planet, thriving ecosystems, and a more informed and engaged populace that values and protects the natural world. Expected outcomes from the grants include improved conditions for wildlife and domestic animals, enhanced environmental quality, and increased public understanding and participation in nature-related activities. While the foundation has no strict geographic boundaries for its awards, it primarily supports organizations located in, or benefiting, Wisconsin and the local Midwest area, with grants typically exceeding $15,000. This regional focus allows for a concentrated impact within an area of particular interest to the foundation, though exceptions are rare for grants outside Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) is offering funding through its Housing Grant Program to support initiatives that expand access to quality housing across the state. The program aims to strengthen Wisconsin’s communities by improving housing options for low- and moderate-income residents through new construction, property rehabilitation, and adaptive improvements. By supporting innovative projects that address local housing needs, WHEDA seeks to foster inclusive growth and enhance the overall livability of Wisconsin’s towns, cities, and rural areas. Grant funds may be used for a variety of development-related activities. Eligible uses include new construction, building or site acquisition, rehabilitation of existing properties, and modifications to improve handicapped accessibility. The program also supports building conversions or additions that increase the number of housing units available. Projects may range from revitalizing underused buildings to creating entirely new housing developments designed to meet local demand. However, funds cannot be used for activities such as feasibility studies, market analyses, down payment assistance, ongoing operational expenses, or costs incurred before the grant award date. Eligibility for this program extends to nonprofit organizations and cooperatives organized under Wisconsin Statutes Chapters 181, 185, or 187, as well as community development authorities, housing authorities, local governments, and Native American tribal authorities. Nonprofits and cooperatives must be in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions at the time of application. The program is designed to ensure equitable access, but applicants that have received consecutive grants in 2021, 2022, and 2023 are not eligible for the 2024 cycle, though they may reapply in 2025. Additionally, organizations with outstanding final reports from prior awards will not be considered until reporting is completed. Each grant is intended to support projects that can be completed within a one-year timeframe. WHEDA emphasizes accountability and sustainability in project delivery, requiring applicants to demonstrate that their initiatives will be completed efficiently and will have a measurable, positive impact on local housing outcomes. Projects should align with WHEDA’s mission to promote economic development through affordable, stable, and inclusive housing opportunities that benefit residents statewide. Through this grant program, WHEDA continues to invest in the long-term strength of Wisconsin communities by empowering local organizations to address pressing housing challenges. By funding efforts that enhance accessibility, preserve affordability, and stimulate economic activity through housing development, WHEDA reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every Wisconsin resident has a place to call home.

Arts Midwest is offering Cultural Sustainability: Equity-Based Operating Grants of up to $67,000 to small arts and culture organizations rooted in communities of color, providing general operating support for those with annual expenses up to $500,000 in selected states.

The Patricia Ann Emberg Charitable Trust offers grants to tax-exempt, nonprofit, and governmental vocational, technical, and trade school programs situated in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. The foundation's mission is aligned with workforce development, specifically targeting the enhancement of skills and opportunities in prominent regional industries. Through these grants, the Trust aims to strengthen educational infrastructures that prepare individuals for successful careers in critical sectors, thereby contributing to the economic vitality of the specified regions. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are vocational, technical, and trade schools in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin, along with the students who enroll in their programs. The impact goal is to create a skilled workforce that meets the demands of regional industries. By supporting these educational institutions, the Trust seeks to foster a pipeline of qualified candidates, addressing labor shortages and promoting economic stability within the community. The grants are designed to support programs that directly contribute to the employability of graduates in high-demand fields. A key priority for the Patricia Ann Emberg Charitable Trust is to give preference to programs of study that have the potential to provide qualified candidates for the workforce in prominent regional industries. Specifically, the Trust highlights areas such as forestry and aircraft maintenance, indicating a strategic focus on sectors vital to the local economy. This targeted approach ensures that the grant funding directly addresses specific industry needs and contributes to the growth and sustainability of these critical sectors. The expected outcomes of the grant program include an increased number of graduates equipped with the necessary skills for prominent regional industries, a more robust local workforce, and ultimately, enhanced economic development in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the focus on workforce readiness in key industries suggests that success would be measured by job placement rates in these fields and the overall positive impact on regional employment statistics. The Trust's strategic priority is to invest in education that directly translates into employment opportunities, reflecting a theory of change where targeted vocational training leads to improved economic well-being for individuals and communities.

The Donaldson Foundation dedicates its efforts to making a positive impact in communities where Donaldson Company employees reside, focusing on supporting educational initiatives. It extends grant invitations exclusively to applications with an educational aim, scrutinizing each based on criteria such as educational focus, the need of beneficiaries, impact, sustainability, and connection to communities near company locations. Eligible recipients are required to be IRS-recognized tax-exempt entities. Funding is available in the Twin Cities and several U.S. locations where Donaldson has significant operations, with grants reaching up to $20,000. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual Cycle 2 deadline: January 15th