Fort Atkinson Community Grant

The Fort Atkinson Community Foundation (FACF) offers Community Grants aimed at fostering educational, cultural, charitable, and benevolent initiatives that serve the Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin area. Established to enhance the quality of life within this specific geographic region, FACF supports projects that provide clear community benefits, especially those that demonstrate creativity, innovation, and alignment with local needs. The foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a commitment to support tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations that serve a public purpose. Community Grants are intended for projects rather than ongoing operational expenses. FACF emphasizes that grant funds are not typically used for salaries, regular operations, debt relief, endowments, religious or sectarian activities, or political causes. Instead, ideal proposals will outline time-bound initiatives, typically to be completed within a one-year timeframe, that make a tangible difference in the Fort Atkinson community. These may include educational programs, cultural events, or charitable services, provided they are targeted and impactful. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or similar public-serving structures. Individuals, for-profit companies, and political or religious organizations are not eligible, unless through pre-established scholarships or awards. Proposals must be approved and signed by a supervising authority where applicable, such as a school principal or the city manager, ensuring institutional endorsement of the initiative. FACF accepts applications on a quarterly basis, with deadlines falling on March 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15. These deadlines correspond to board meetings held the following month (April, July, October, and January respectively), and completed applications must be received in advance of these meetings to be considered. Applications may be submitted by mail or in person at the foundation’s office located at 244 North Main Street, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. There is no online application portal; interested applicants must first review the grant guidelines and, if eligible, contact the Executive Director, Megan Hartwick, via email at facf@fortfoundation.org or by phone at (920) 563-3210 to request an application. The foundation does not publish details regarding specific application components or evaluation criteria but emphasizes that funded projects must demonstrate clear community impact and feasibility within the specified project period. Community Grants are recurring on a quarterly basis and typically follow a predictable schedule. Projects are reviewed by the board of directors shortly after each deadline, and applicants can expect decisions in a timely manner thereafter. For those planning future applications, the next anticipated application deadline after December 15, 2025, will be March 15, 2026, with internal planning suggested to begin in early 2026.

Ensure supervisor sign-off when applicable.