Wausau Marathon County Impact Grants

The Wausau Marathon County Impact Grants, administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, are designed to support nonprofit initiatives that enhance the quality of life throughout Marathon County, Wisconsin. This grant program focuses on projects that deliver a meaningful, long-term impact and address specific community needs. It is tailored to support capital improvements, equipment acquisitions, and capacity-building programs that uplift organizational effectiveness. The Foundation places a strong emphasis on aligning grant funding with its overarching mission: to inspire charitable giving and invest in a brighter community. The program is a cornerstone of the Foundation’s broader philanthropic vision of ensuring that everyone in the region prospers and succeeds. This grant opportunity is open exclusively to tax-exempt organizations classified under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation mandates that all applicants must have a project or program that directly benefits the greater Wausau area or any community within Marathon County. Projects must offer tangible, long-term value or demonstrate clear capacity-building potential. Examples include physical infrastructure enhancements or program expansions that elevate service delivery. Faith-based organizations may apply under the condition that awarded funds are not used for proselytizing or sectarian instruction and that funded services are made available to all community members. Organizations must also comply with a comprehensive nondiscrimination policy covering a broad spectrum of protected classes. Applicants are required to speak with Kelly Price, the Foundation’s Director of Programs and Donor Relations, before submitting an application—particularly if they are first-time applicants. This conversation is an integral part of the application process, ensuring alignment between the applicant's objectives and the Foundation’s funding criteria. Applications must be submitted online via the Foundation's digital platform. The program follows a quarterly review cycle with specific deadlines: February 3, May 5, August 4, and October 27. Notification of funding decisions occurs by the end of the corresponding review month: March, June, September, or December. Eligible applicants are expected to submit a complete proposal through the Foundation’s portal, which includes articulating the project’s objectives, outlining its expected community impact, and presenting a reasonable budget and timeline. Projects are assessed based on their potential to provide lasting benefits, demonstrate financial and operational feasibility, and reflect innovative approaches to meeting community needs. The Foundation’s Distributions Committee reviews all submissions and makes funding recommendations to the board of directors. Grant awards range from $1,000 to $100,000, contingent upon the scale and significance of the proposed initiative. While no formal match is required, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate additional support where applicable. Successful applicants are required to acknowledge the Foundation’s support publicly. A final report, inclusive of project outcomes and accompanying photos, must be submitted within two years of receiving the grant. These reports help inform future funding cycles and contribute to the Foundation’s ongoing marketing efforts. The Wausau Marathon County Impact Grants recur quarterly, providing a regular opportunity for local nonprofits to seek meaningful investment in their programs and services. With a structured process, defined review periods, and a commitment to high-impact giving, the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the Marathon County region through targeted philanthropic support.

Applicants are advised to speak with program staff before applying, especially if new.