The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin offers the Major Project Cycle to fund significant community initiatives that create a lasting impact in Portage and Waushara Counties. Each year, the Foundation awards up to $50,000 to a single major project that brings various sectors of the community together toward a common goal aligned with the Foundation’s values.
Projects must relate to one or more of the Foundation’s five mission areas: Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Helping People, and Wellness. The goal is to enhance the quality of life for residents through unique and collaborative efforts. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing, public, private, and charter schools, government entities, and community-based groups. Individuals and requests for operating costs or debt repayment are not eligible.
Applications for this grant cycle open on May 15 and close on June 15. Only one major project application may be submitted per organization each year. Final decisions are made in mid-September. Projects must request between $25,000 and $50,000, and awarded funds may not exceed 50% of the total project budget.
The Foundation encourages potential applicants to contact Sarah Ross, Director of Community Leadership, in advance of submitting an application. This helps ensure alignment with the Foundation's priorities and allows for feedback on project ideas. Ineligible projects include endowments, lobbying, general operations, emergency funding, and requests exceeding the allowed funding ratio.
The grant application requires a clear project summary, budget details, impact statement, and demonstration of matching funds. Detailed information about previously funded projects such as those by Mid-State Technical College, Celebrate Plover, and CREATE Portage County are available on the Foundation’s website and blog. Interested applicants should review these examples and watch the 2025 Community Lunch Hour video for additional guidance.
To apply or learn more, visit the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin’s website or contact Sarah Ross at foundation@cfcwi.org or (715) 342-4454. The Foundation’s office is located at 2801 Hoover Rd. Unit 1B, Stevens Point, WI 54481.
Contact Sarah Ross before submission; ensure project impact and alignment; review past recipients
