Schlecht Family Foundation Grants

The Schlecht Family Foundation, rooted in Wisconsin, is committed to fostering transformation over transaction through its grantmaking initiatives. Grounded in the values and vision of its founders, the Foundation seeks to uplift organizations serving communities within five specific counties in Wisconsin: Dane, Green, Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette. Its philanthropic strategy is designed to identify and support innovative and purpose-driven entities that align with its core focus areas, demonstrating a deep commitment to social impact and community advancement. The Foundation's funding focuses on three distinct areas: meaningful work, forging character, and connections to nature. Under "meaningful work," the Foundation supports organizations helping individuals access purpose-driven employment opportunities. "Forging character" targets youth ages 12 to 24, fostering resilience, skills, and confidence necessary for a purposeful life. The "connections to nature" focus area supports initiatives that improve mental, physical, and spiritual well-being through environmental education and conservation. These thematic areas guide the Foundation’s grantmaking priorities and ensure alignment with its overarching mission to address complex community issues through fresh ideas and approaches. To facilitate this work, the Foundation offers four types of support. Capacity Building Grants are aimed at enhancing organizational effectiveness through technical support and resource development. Seed Grants assist newly established nonprofits or new program initiatives within existing organizations, offering one-time startup funding. General Operating Grants support ongoing efforts of mission-aligned organizations with a track record of measurable success. Additionally, the Foundation offers Impact Investments, including loans and guarantees, to projects that generate both social returns and financial sustainability. While these funding types cover a range of operational needs, the Foundation generally avoids funding capital campaigns or endowments. Eligibility requirements are clearly defined. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or have a qualified fiscal sponsor. They must operate in one or more of the five specified counties in Wisconsin and work within at least one of the three focus areas. Organizations involved in lobbying or political campaign activities are ineligible. The Foundation is intentional in seeking out mission-aligned partners and emphasizes transformative over transactional relationships. The application process begins with an email introduction to the Foundation's point of contact, Stephanie, at [email protected]. If the Foundation sees alignment in mission and goals, a call is scheduled to further explore the proposal. Final decisions are made during Board meetings, which occur three times annually: in April/May, August/September, and December. Approved grants are disbursed within five business days of Board approval. There are no formal application forms or portals; the process is personalized and highly relational. The grant process is inherently recurring, tied to the Foundation’s triannual Board meetings. While there are no fixed application deadlines, organizations are encouraged to initiate contact well in advance of upcoming Board meetings to allow sufficient time for evaluation. There is no requirement for cost sharing or matching funds, and the Foundation does not specify award ceilings or floors publicly, as funding levels are determined based on organizational needs and potential for impact.

Mission alignment is critical; clearly articulate how your organization fits one of the three focus areas.