Wisconsin grants for Native American tribal organizations

Recreational boating facility projects. Past projects have included ramps and service docks to gain access to the water, purchase of aquatic weed harvesting equipment, navigation aids and dredging waterway channels. These grants may be used by counties, towns, cities, villages, tribes, sanitary districts, public inland lake protection and rehabilitation districts and qualified lake associations for recreational boating facility projects. FOR GRANT REQUESTS IN EXCESS OF $250,000: Applications for RBF grants exceeding $250,000 are encouraged to be submitted to your regional DNR grants specialists in time for the June 1st, or September 1st, application deadlines. These larger grant requests take extra processing time and therefore are highly recommended for earlier evaluation, in the first two quarters of the fiscal year. Contact your regional DNR grants specialist as soon as possible, if you have a larger project and you are planning to apply for a RBF grant. DNR grants specialists can help with scheduling and grant processing.

Program Name: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) PROGRAM Funding Organization: Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Contact Information: For assistance with LWCF grants, contact Pam Rood, your regional DNR Stewardship contact. Award Details: Grants cover 50% of eligible project costs. Eligible Applicants: Towns, villages, cities, counties, tribal governments, school districts or other state political subdivisions. Eligible Projects: 1. Land acquisition or development projects that provide opportunities for public outdoor recreation. 2. Property with frontage on rivers, streams, lakes, estuaries and reservoirs that provide water-based outdoor recreation. 3. Property that provides special recreation opportunities such as floodplains, wetlands, and areas adjacent to scenic highways. 4. Natural areas and outstanding scenic areas that preserve scenic or natural values and are open to the general public for outdoor recreation use without impairing the natural attributes of the areas. 5. Land or development within urban areas for day-use picnic areas. 6. Land or development of nature-based outdoor recreation trails. 7. Development of basic outdoor recreation facilities. 8. Renovation of existing outdoor recreation facilities in danger of being lost for public use. Ineligible Project Examples: 1. Projects not supported by a local comprehensive outdoor recreational plan. 2. Acquisition and development of golf courses. 3. Projects where stormwater management is the primary purpose. 4. Lands that include cell towers. 5. Land that will be used for non-outdoor public recreation purposes. Deadlines and Funding Cycles: - Completed applications must be submitted to your regional Stewardship community service specialist by May 1 each year. - Department of Natural Resources regional staff review and rate eligible projects in early June. - Final project listing is compiled in July with projects ranking the highest selected for grants based on available funds. - Final selected projects will be reviewed and approved by the National Park Service before the sponsor receives an agreement with the DNR. Note: The grant is renewable every year, and the application period closes on May 1st each year.

This program provides financial assistance to counties and tribal governing bodies to enhance fish and wildlife programs. Established in 1965 by the Wisconsin Legislature as an alternative to bounty payments on coyote, foxes, and bobcats, it now supports a wide range of county-sponsored fish and wildlife habitat projects. After the state budget approval, funds are allocated based on the ratio of each county's area to the total state area. The program is designed as a cost-share initiative for projects that include development of outdoor recreation structures, habitat restoration, stocking projects, maintenance, and miscellaneous projects directly related to fish and wildlife. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual deadline: October 1st

This program provides funding for Wisconsin-based small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments to purchase equipment that enhances the processing, storage, and distribution of locally produced food products.

Grant Opportunity: Sport Fish Restoration - Fishing Pier (SFR-FP) Funding Organization: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Contact Information: - Name: Faith M Murray - Email Address: [email protected] - Work Phone: (920) 461-8206 - Work Address: NATURAL RESOURCES, DEPT OF, GREEN BAY, WI 54313 Intent and Eligibility: The Sport Fish Restoration - Fishing Pier grant program provides funding for the construction and renovation of fishing piers primarily designed to provide public access for shore fishing. Eligible applicants include counties, towns, cities, villages, tribes, sanitary districts, public inland lake protection and rehabilitation districts, and qualified lake associations. Matching contributions must come from non-federal sources. Application Deadline: Applications for the Sport Fish Restoration Fishing Pier grant must be submitted by October 1 each year. Application Materials: To apply for the grant, applicants must submit various materials including the Sport Fish Restoration Grant Programs Application (Form 8700-385), Grant Project Authorizing Resolution (Form 8700-388), project location maps, topographical maps of the project area showing land disturbance area, illustrations of the current condition of the project area, drawings or site plans of the proposed project area including buildings and facilities, preliminary or final engineering plans with pier designs, draft easement/lease/MOU documents if applicable, and copies of required permits if already received. Submission Process: All grant applications should be emailed to [email protected]. The subject line of the email should indicate the type of grant being applied for. Application materials should be saved in PDF format and not exceed 15 megabytes in size. If email size exceeds 15 MB, documents can be sent in multiple emails. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their application is submitted by the deadline. Additional Resources: Applicants are advised to read the Program Guidance for U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Subaward Grant Program: Boating Infrastructure Grant, Clean Vessel Act, and Sport Fish Restoration for Boat Access and Fishing Piers [PDF]. Accessibility guidance for grant-funded projects (CF-031) and the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and

Grant Opportunity: County Conservation Aids (CCA) Funding Organization: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Contact Information: Bobbi Winebar, Grant Program Manager, WI Dept of Natural Resources, 2984 Shawano Avenue, Green Bay, WI 54313, 920-461-2595 Program Description: The County Conservation Aids (CCA) grant program provides financial assistance to county and tribal governing bodies participating in county fish and wildlife programs. The program aims to enhance fish and wildlife resources through the funding of various projects related to outdoor recreation use, habitat restoration/enhancement, stocking projects, maintenance projects, and miscellaneous projects. The grants are funded by the revenue generated from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and state sales tax on hunting and fishing equipment. Eligibility: County and tribal governing bodies participating in county fish and wildlife programs are eligible to apply for this grant. Award Details: The statewide allocation for the current fiscal year is $148,500. Funds are allocated to each county in proportion to the ratio of the size of each county to the total area of the state. Unused funds revert to five regions available to county and tribal governments within region boundaries. Application Process: Interested applicants can download the County Conservation Aids (CCA) Application & Grant Agreement Form #8700-045A from the website. The form should be completed online and submitted via email or postmarked no later than October 1. Applicants may need to obtain permits if required or seek approval from the property manager if their project is occurring on DNR-owned land. A letter of final award notification will be sent out by October 31. Matching Requirement: If an applicant receives a grant of federal pass-through funds from the DNR, those funds can be used as a match for the 50% cost-share required by the CCA program. State funds cannot be used as a match for a CCA grant. Reimbursement Information: Expenditures made prior to the effective date of the appropriate DNR regional grant specialist approval will not be allowed. All work must be done within the project period. Local equipment rates may be used but should not exceed the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) equipment rate for the year of the project activities. Re

This funding opportunity provides financial support to tribal governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions for solar energy projects that enhance energy independence and benefit low-to-moderate income communities.

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) is offering funding through its Housing Grant Program to support initiatives that expand access to quality housing across the state. The program aims to strengthen Wisconsin’s communities by improving housing options for low- and moderate-income residents through new construction, property rehabilitation, and adaptive improvements. By supporting innovative projects that address local housing needs, WHEDA seeks to foster inclusive growth and enhance the overall livability of Wisconsin’s towns, cities, and rural areas. Grant funds may be used for a variety of development-related activities. Eligible uses include new construction, building or site acquisition, rehabilitation of existing properties, and modifications to improve handicapped accessibility. The program also supports building conversions or additions that increase the number of housing units available. Projects may range from revitalizing underused buildings to creating entirely new housing developments designed to meet local demand. However, funds cannot be used for activities such as feasibility studies, market analyses, down payment assistance, ongoing operational expenses, or costs incurred before the grant award date. Eligibility for this program extends to nonprofit organizations and cooperatives organized under Wisconsin Statutes Chapters 181, 185, or 187, as well as community development authorities, housing authorities, local governments, and Native American tribal authorities. Nonprofits and cooperatives must be in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions at the time of application. The program is designed to ensure equitable access, but applicants that have received consecutive grants in 2021, 2022, and 2023 are not eligible for the 2024 cycle, though they may reapply in 2025. Additionally, organizations with outstanding final reports from prior awards will not be considered until reporting is completed. Each grant is intended to support projects that can be completed within a one-year timeframe. WHEDA emphasizes accountability and sustainability in project delivery, requiring applicants to demonstrate that their initiatives will be completed efficiently and will have a measurable, positive impact on local housing outcomes. Projects should align with WHEDA’s mission to promote economic development through affordable, stable, and inclusive housing opportunities that benefit residents statewide. Through this grant program, WHEDA continues to invest in the long-term strength of Wisconsin communities by empowering local organizations to address pressing housing challenges. By funding efforts that enhance accessibility, preserve affordability, and stimulate economic activity through housing development, WHEDA reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every Wisconsin resident has a place to call home.

Arts Midwest is offering Cultural Sustainability: Equity-Based Operating Grants of up to $67,000 to small arts and culture organizations rooted in communities of color, providing general operating support for those with annual expenses up to $500,000 in selected states.

The Tourist Information Center (TIC) Grant Program supports nonprofit tourism organizations, municipalities, and Native American tribes that operate regional tourist information centers. This program provides financial assistance of up to $15,000 per organization per year, covering up to 50% of eligible expenses. Eligible expenses include staffing costs for the TIC, promotional materials, and standard display equipment like racks or shelving. The program emphasizes the importance of centers being accessible, staffed during high traffic times, including weekends, and equipped with knowledgeable staff who can provide reliable information about statewide travel opportunities. To apply, organizations must provide operation hours/dates, a listing of available publications, receipted vouchers, and a payroll register. Application deadline is July 1, covering expenses incurred in the preceding six months. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual Summer deadline: July 1st

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources offers urban forestry startup grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for small projects in tree care and management, including planting, pruning, removal, and education, available to cities, villages, towns, counties, tribes, and nonprofits that are starting or resuming a community-wide tree care program.

The C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund is a grant opportunity that invests in grassroots conservation and education projects benefiting Wisconsin's lands, waters, and wildlife, while also connecting people to the state's natural resources. The grants range from $500 to $2,000. The fund has several grantmaking priorities, including projects that benefit Wisconsin's imperiled natural communities and native plant or wildlife species, engage and impact underserved communities or support diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within Wisconsin's conservation and environmental education sectors, and build climate resiliency through natural climate solutions or climate adaptation. Projects should demonstrate measurable outcomes and encourage innovation through resource leverage and partnerships. Eligible applicants include public charities with approved 501(c)(3) exempt status (under section 509(a)(1), 509(a)(2), or 509(a)(3) Type I and Type II), federal, state, or local governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, or accredited schools, colleges, or universities. Ineligible organizations include individuals, businesses, section 509(a)(3) Type III supporting organizations, private foundations, and private operating foundations. Projects must benefit Wisconsin's natural resources or people. The total project budget cannot exceed $10,000 with overhead costs limited to 15% of the grant amount. Project expenses incurred prior to submitting the application are not eligible. A one-to-one match is required and can include in-kind support such as volunteer hours or donated materials. Only one application per organization per grant cycle will be accepted. To apply for the grant opportunity: 1. Ensure your project addresses the grantmaking priorities and meets eligibility requirements. 2. Complete the application (paper copies not accepted). 3. Include proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter). 4. Submit all materials by email to Lindsey at [email protected] by September 1st. Applicants will be notified within six weeks following the submission deadline. For more information or inquiries, contact Lindsey Taylor, Conservation Programs Coordinator, at (608) 409-3145 or [email protected]. The grant is renewed every year with a deadline of September 1st.

The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin's C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund is dedicated to investing in grassroots conservation and education projects throughout Wisconsin. The foundation's mission is to benefit the state's lands, waters, and wildlife, while simultaneously fostering a deeper connection between people and Wisconsin's natural resources. This grant program is aligned with the foundation's broader goal of supporting community-led initiatives that directly impact and preserve the state's environmental heritage. The fund targets a diverse range of beneficiaries, including public charities with 501(c)(3) status, federal, state, or local governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, and accredited educational institutions. The impact goals are centered on creating positive change for Wisconsin's natural resources and its communities. Specifically, the program aims to support projects that protect imperiled natural communities and native species, engage and impact underserved communities while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in conservation, and build climate resiliency through natural climate solutions or adaptation strategies. The program's priorities are clearly defined to address critical environmental and social needs. Proposals should focus on projects that contribute to the conservation of Wisconsin's most vulnerable natural communities and native plant or wildlife species. Furthermore, a significant emphasis is placed on projects that actively involve and benefit underserved communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable conservation movement within the state. Finally, the fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance the climate resilience of Wisconsin's natural resources, either through nature-based solutions or strategies for adapting to climate change. All projects supported by the C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes, ensuring accountability and tangible results. The foundation encourages innovative projects that maximize their impact by leveraging existing resources and forging strategic partnerships. While specific funding ranges from $500 to $2,000, the total project budget may not exceed $10,000, with overhead costs capped at 15% of the grant. A one-to-one match, which can include in-kind support like volunteer hours or donated materials, is a required component of all applications, underscoring the foundation's commitment to community involvement and shared investment in conservation efforts.

The 2025 Creation and Presentation Program (CPP) Grants are multi-year financial aids provided by the Wisconsin Arts Board to established nonprofit arts organizations in Wisconsin, aiming to enhance the state's cultural life by supporting their operations and artistic programs that demonstrate strong management, high artistic quality, and significant local, regional, or statewide impact.

This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NFO) is being released prior to appropriation and/or apportionment of funds for fiscal year 2024. Enactment of additional continuing resolutions or an appropriations act may affect the availability or level of funding for this program. The purpose of this NFO is to encourage and promote conservation planning and conservation practice implementation in urban, suburban, and other small-scale type agricultural operations. Emphasis will be placed on projects that establish new demonstration community gardens, or enhance and expand existing community agriculture projects. Proposals should seek to: 1. Provide conservation learning experiences to urban, suburban, and Tribal communities. 2. Address concerns regarding food deserts. 3. Advance Tribal food sovereignty. 4. Achieve positive and measurable natural resources conservation outcomes. For new users of Grants.gov, see Section D. of the full Notice of Funding Opportunity for information about steps required before submitting an application via Grants.gov. Key Dates Applicants must submit their applications via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on May 22, 2024. For technical issues with Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support at 1-800-518-4726 or [email protected]. Awarding agency staff cannot support applicants regarding Grants.gov accounts. For inquiries specific to the content of the NFO requirements, contact the federal awarding agency contact (section G of this NFO). Please limit questions to those regarding specific information contained in this NFO (such as dates, page numbers, clarification of discrepancies, etc.). Questions related to eligibility or the merits of a specific proposal will not be addressed. The agency anticipates making selections by June 21, 2024 and expects to execute awards by September 1, 2024. These dates are estimates and are subject to change.

The Go Outside Fund, provided by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, aims to connect youth with outdoor, nature-based learning experiences. This grant program directly aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering an appreciation for natural resources and encouraging hands-on engagement with the environment among the younger generation in Wisconsin. The program's core objective is to facilitate access to outdoor activities for children, thereby promoting environmental literacy and a deeper connection to nature. The primary beneficiaries of this fund are pre-K through 12th-grade students in Wisconsin. Teachers and partner organizations can apply for funding to cover various costs that enable outdoor learning, such as field supplies, transportation, substitute teachers, or educator expenses. The impact goals are centered on increasing opportunities for children to learn in outdoor settings, fostering a sense of stewardship, and enriching their educational experiences through direct interaction with nature. The fund prioritizes grant applications that include a significant component of outdoor activity and directly engage children in outdoor, nature-based learning. While alignment with classroom learning and standards is encouraged, it is not a strict requirement, emphasizing the program's focus on experiential learning. Grants between $100 and $500 are available, supporting a wide range of smaller-scale, impactful projects that meet the eligibility criteria. Eligible applicants include public charities with approved 501(c)(3) status, governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, and accredited schools, colleges, or universities. The program's theory of change posits that by removing financial barriers and supporting educators and organizations, more Wisconsin youth will have access to enriching outdoor experiences, leading to increased environmental awareness and appreciation. The expected outcome is a measurable increase in youth participation in nature-based learning, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and engaged generation. Projects must benefit Wisconsin students, and activities must take place six weeks or more after the application due date, ensuring planned and impactful engagement.

This funding opportunity supports organizations working to improve shoreland habitat and water quality by implementing best practices on behalf of multiple property owners in Wisconsin.

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This initiative provides funding and support to nonprofit organizations, local governments, and Tribal governments in coal-impacted communities to develop and scale innovative economic projects that create job opportunities and foster local economic transformation.

The Otto Bremer Trust is a private charitable trust based in St. Paul, Minn. Created in 1944 by Otto Bremer, it is committed to supporting a better quality of life for residents of Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. Since its founding, OBT has invested nearly $1 billion and provides ~$105 million annually to nonprofit organizations in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. Applications are due on a rolling basis on these dates: February 4, 2024; April 4, 2024; June 6, 2024; August 1, 2024. - General Operations Application: General operations grants provide unrestricted funding that enables an organization to carry out its mission. Typical uses could include support for an organization’s administrative and infrastructure costs, maintaining core programs and/or staffing. This application is for organizations seeking $75,000 or more in general operations support. - General Operations Short Application: This application is for organizations seeking general operations support of less than $75,000. - Restricted Application: Restricted grants provide funding for a specific program or project. These funds may not be used for other purposes, although a portion may be utilized for overhead or indirect costs of administering the program or project. - Capital Application: Capital grants support constructing, repairing, renovating, or rehabilitating an organization’s physical space. Capital grants can also support the purchase of equipment necessary for an organization to carry out its work.