The Waupaca Area Community Foundation Fund, administered under the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, provides annual competitive grants aimed at preserving and enhancing the quality of life in the greater Waupaca area. The funding is derived from fundraising activities, including an annual gala, and from unrestricted donor funds designated for discretionary use by the Foundation’s volunteer board. These grants support innovative and community-centered projects aligned with the Foundation's mission.
Grants are awarded in several priority areas including arts and culture, community development, education, environment, and health and human services. Applicants may propose new creative activities, services, or one-time projects, as well as enhancements to existing programs. The Foundation also funds small capital investments directly linked to service delivery, and supports recurring non-fundraising events such as exhibits and performances, but only for up to three consecutive years. Each organization may submit one application per cycle for a maximum of $7,500.
The grant application deadline is June 10 at 11:59 p.m., and funding decisions are typically announced in mid-August. To apply, organizations must review the Foundation’s general grant policies to confirm eligibility. Eligible applicants include those serving residents of the Waupaca area, specifically the communities of Waupaca, Weyauwega, Fremont, Iola, Scandinavia, Ogdensburg, Manawa, and King.
The grant excludes funding for general operating expenses unrelated to the proposed project, fundraising events, or organizations that do not serve the specified geographic area. Applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s Grant Portal. First-time users must register and can access tutorials and FAQs on the portal landing page.
For assistance or questions regarding eligibility or the application process, applicants may contact Carolyn Desrosiers, Director of Community Engagement, at 920-702-7625 or via email at cdesrosiers@cffoxvalley.org. The Foundation’s main office is located at 4455 W. Lawrence Street, Appleton, WI 54914, and operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Noon to 4:00 p.m.
