The Fabrication Laboratories Grant Program, administered by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) through its Business and Community Development Division, supports the establishment and expansion of fabrication laboratories—known as “Fab Labs”—in Wisconsin’s public schools. The program promotes hands-on education in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), equipping K-12 students with essential 21st-century skills. It also contributes to local economic growth by providing community access to high-technology equipment and fostering innovation among entrepreneurs and small businesses.
The program was first established under 2015 Wisconsin Act 55 and has been revised multiple times to expand eligibility and strengthen performance accountability. For FY 2026, it continues to emphasize the importance of aligning workforce preparation with STEAM-based occupations. Through this grant, WEDC aims to demonstrate Wisconsin’s commitment to innovation and to enhance student readiness for advanced manufacturing and technology careers.
Eligible applicants include Wisconsin public school districts and tribal schools. Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESAs) or lead school districts may apply on behalf of a consortium of two or more districts. The funds can be used to purchase equipment and related software installation costs for instructional use in Fab Labs serving elementary through high school students. Ineligible uses include in-kind contributions and indirect or construction-related “soft” costs.
The program offers grants of $10,000 to $25,000 for individual school districts, and up to $50,000 for consortium applications. Each applicant must provide matching funds equal to at least 50 percent of the WEDC grant. Applicants may receive one award per fiscal year and no more than three lifetime awards, except for Milwaukee Public Schools and those expanding labs for K-8 access or artificial intelligence training. WEDC expects to assist approximately ten school districts or consortiums in FY 2026 with a total allocation of $250,000.
Applications are accepted on a continuous basis until the annual deadline of January 15. Submissions are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and evaluated according to readiness and long-range planning, curriculum integration, business and community partnerships, financial need, and prior awards. Interested applicants should contact a WEDC Account Manager for eligibility confirmation and then apply through Network Wisconsin. Awarded recipients must submit annual performance reports detailing student usage and maintain all related financial documentation for at least three years.
Performance metrics for funded projects include capital investment, number of individuals served, and leveraged resources. WEDC may audit selected recipients annually to verify outcomes. Program guidelines define Fab Labs broadly as high-technology workshops equipped with computer-controlled manufacturing tools such as 3-D printers, laser engravers, routers, and simulators—including advanced artificial-intelligence and healthcare applications. This program will remain open annually, with the next application deadline on January 15, 2026.
Strong curriculum integration and community partnerships increase competitiveness.
