Wisconsin Recreation Grants

The James E. Dutton Foundation is a charitable foundation providing financial support to organizations working on projects which benefit wildlife, animal causes, environmental preservation, and outdoors education. Donor Name: James E. Dutton Foundation State: Wisconsin County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/17/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: All of the grants they make seek to positively impact the environment, domestic animals, wildlife, human life, or all. We measure our success as an organization on how well our grants: Positively impact the environment, wildlife, and animal life, or Enhance human life through nature-related activities and education. Focus Areas  Care of Animals  Environment Health Land Management Research Education, Public Awareness, Recreational Funding Information  The Dutton Foundation be made for grants exceeding $15,000. Geographic Areas Although the Foundation has no geographic boundaries for it awards, the Foundation has primarily supported organizations located in, or benefiting, Wisconsin and the local Midwest area.  It is a rare exception for the Foundation to award a grant outside of Wisconsin. For more information, visit James E. Dutton Foundation.

The Water-Right Charitable Fund, managed by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, offers grants between $1000 to $10,000 to 501(c)(3) public charities in Wisconsin, particularly those serving the Fox Valley Region, to support projects addressing basic needs, environmental needs, and education.

The Youth Foundation welcomes applications to assist and promote the welfare and betterment of children and young people up to 25 years of age that contribute to their physical and intellectual development and formation of character. Donor Name: Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS State: Wisconsin County: Milwaukee County (WI), Washington County (WI), Waukesha County (WI) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/01/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Project Period  All grant awards are for a period of one-year.  Eligibility Criteria Be a nonprofit charitable organization classified as a 501(c) (3). Serve Milwaukee, Waukesha or Washington County. Complete the Youth Foundation application form below and submit all required documents. For more information, visit Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in the greater Wausau area and Marathon County, Wisconsin, to enhance local parks and recreational activities.

The Wispact Inc. Foundation provides charitable grants to non-profit organizations providing services to persons with disabilities. Donor Name: Wispact Foundation State: Wisconsin County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/09/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Consideration will be given to, but not limited to, proposals addressing needs in the following areas: Housing: programs designed to improve the day-to-day living conditions, for persons with disabilities, through the provision of safe living environments and enhancing the accessibility to such environment Assistive Devices: devices designed, made, or adapted to assist a person to perform a particular task; examples include: canes, crutches, walkers, wheel chairs, and shower chairs are all assistive devices Education/Recreation: inclusive educational programming including, but not limited to, workshops, summer camps, art classes; educational equipment such as computers, software, projection equipment, art supplies, etc. that promote fulfillment and edification for persons with disabilities Expansion of current services in place Transportation. Eligibility Criteria  Your organization must be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization according to the Internal Revenue Code—tax exempt pursuant to 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3)—in good standing. All grant funds must be used for the benefit of individuals with disabilities. Wispact Foundation grants are not available to provide support for the following: Wispact Inc. is a private nonprofit organization that administers pooled and community Special Needs Trusts for people with disabilities. Based in Madison, Wispact manages the Special Needs Trusts for more than 3,000 people throughout the state of Wisconsin. The Wispact Foundation is an entity under the auspices and authority of Wispact, Inc. Capital campaigns General operating expenses unrelated to the grant purpose Retroactive funding for activities that have already taken place Basic research Staff development activities Supplanting of projects or activities that have existing funding from other sources. For more information, visit Wispact Foundation.

The Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC) is accepting applications for its Youth Grant Program to provide financial assistance that serves youth in need, connecting them to sports activities that can provide lifelong enjoyment and health benefits. Donor Name: Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC) State: Wisconsin County: Dane County (WI) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC) youth grant program is a program developed, administered, and funded by the MASC. Designed to serve the youth of Dane County, Wisconsin, the grant program was established following the creation of the MASC with contributions made from the Ironman Community Foundation, individuals, corporations and annual community fundraisers. The MASC youth grant program strives to assist children in developing healthy lifestyles by introducing them to sports that meet their interests and abilities. Healthy lifestyles help to combat childhood obesity, create positive and emotional connections, and to instill commitment and daily structure to their lives. Eligibility Grants will be made to an organization (or to an organization on behalf of individuals), and not to individuals. Grant recipients and recipient organizations must reside in and serve Dane County youth ages 17 and under. Grants will be made only to organizations with open, non-restrictive membership available to all, regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, religious belief, or nationality. Gender-specific activities will be considered. Criteria The child or children to be served by the grant are ages 17 and under, residents of Dane County and from a population that is underserved by current sports programs. A mutual commitment between the sports program and the individuals it serves that extends beyond the term of the grant proposal. Consideration will be given to the broad scope of sports, including so-called “minor” sports and sports for individual competition, as well as more traditional team sports. The key is not the sport, but aligning individuals with a sport that is consistent with their interests and abilities, as well as the quality of the sports program and opportunity. The number and overall reach of people the grant application will be impacting. Whether the efforts of the proposed grant being duplicated among or supported by other community resources. Whether the sports program will grow and maintain quality as a result of participation. Transportation requests (for youth to qualified programs) will be considered. Capital construction requests will be considered under special conditions i.e. when a special need can be established, part of the funding is a matching grant or other devices will supplement the grant, the project can be completed within a reasonable time frame (12 months). It is highly recommended that the applicant closes out any open or previous grant awards through MASC before re-applying for additional funding. MASC reserves the right to turn down or forward applications to a future grant cycle or wait until all accounts have been paid out completely before considering any additional applications. Additional Requirements The applicant must fill out the grant paperwork and be willing to fill out a follow up report. The applicant must be willing to be included or mentioned in promotional work including website, public relations, etc. When a grant is awarded, the MASC Youth Grant Program recognizes that the award provides opportunities for benefits to both parties. The Program reserves the right to expect the following. Acknowledgement in publicity by grantee of MASC donation and association through various media, press releases, social media posts press conferences, publicity, photos, etc. Acknowledgement in publicity within the membership of the grantee organization. Acknowledgement and presence on each other’s respective websites where appropriate. Logos will be provided upon request. The applicant must submit two (2) references in support of the organization and/or programs. For more information, visit MASC.

Are you aged 15 to 24 years old? Want to make a difference in the La Crosse community? Are you ready to act on climate change and help the environment? If yes, then apply for the Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) Micro-Grant Program. Donor Name: City of La Crosse State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The goal of the YCAF is to activate youth-led initiatives and address urgent climate challenges in La Crosse. All projects must fit within the strategies of the City’s Climate Action Plan. These ideas may include Youth-led awareness, education, research, and development initiatives, including youth-led climate education programs, youth climate hackathons; youth-developed climate surveys and research youth-informed clubs or curriculum; and youth-designed public art and awareness campaigns. Youth-driven climate mitigation and adaptation projects, including youth-led community gardening, tree planting, reforestation, and urban farming campaigns; youth-managed recycling and waste reduction programs; and youth-produced climate resilience workshops and disaster preparedness programs. Co-governed youth climate action plans, including partnerships between city leaders and youth groups to inform climate-related policy ideas, decisions, actions, or the formation of youth climate ambassadors or advisory boards. This program can fund any youth-led (15-24 years of age) project that is focused on sustainability and climate change that directly benefits La Crosse. Example projects can include school community gardens, waste collection programs, road/waterway cleanups, renewable energy projects, tree plantings, energy efficiency projects, sustainable transportation projects, murals, etc. Additionally, projects could also include hosting events or organizing online or in-person activities Funding Information Grants ranging from $1,000 – $5,000. Eligibility Criteria Open to applicants between the ages of 15-24 years old who reside in, or whose initiatives directly benefit, the city of La Crosse. If youth-led groups are not incorporated entities, they may partner with one that serves as the micro-grant recipient and fund administrator.  Entities must have a formal incorporation or status of some kind (not necessarily an NGO or charity), a bank account in its name, and an ability to manage the funds. For more information, visit City of La Crosse.

The Oshkosh Area United Way is seeking applications for its 2025 Community Investment Grant. Donor Name: Oshkosh Area United Way State: Wisconsin County: Winnebago County (WI) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/28/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Each year, the Community Investment Application is available to organizations in Southern Winnebago County that offer programming in the following focus areas: Youth-Focused Education: Providing access to high-quality childcare and education is one of the smartest investments they can make. OAUW funds programs that give parents and children tools for early childhood development and overall school and career readiness. Mental Health: In the Oshkosh area, there is a need to support mental health that grows every day. OAUW funds programs that connect residents to health and human services, and healing and crisis intervention. Financial Stability: Oshkosh Area United Way supports efforts to create stable, self-sufficient households. OAUW do this by supporting programs that improve skills for gainful employment, reduce transportation barriers, and offer basic needs like food and shelter. Eligibility Criteria  OAUW will consider funding for organizations that: Provide programs supporting youth-focused education, access to mental health, and financial stability. Demonstrate their program’s benefit to local residents, whether the service is an independent agency or part of a national group.  Measure and track positive results clients and consumers achieve with the services provided by the agency. Nonprofit organizations the IRS recognizes as 501(c)3, or have a similar tax exemption, such as a school district or unit of county or local government. Maintain records and monitor the use of United Way funds. Are in compliance with anti-terrorist funding in accordance with the USA PATRIOT Act. Organizations that welcome diversity in the selection of board and staff and practice non-discrimination in the delivery of services. Programs that support residents in at least one of these zip codes: 54901, 54902, 54903, 54904, 54906, 54927, 54963, 54964, 54980, 54985, 54986. OAUW will NOT consider funding for: Individuals. Religious organizations if their activities serve only members or promote a particular religion or denomination. Lobbying efforts meant to influence legislation. Direct support for travel by individuals or groups unless it is a critical component of an eligible program, such as transportation for the elderly and disabled. Advertising other than that which makes the public aware of available services. Endowment or capital campaigns. Athletic associations or teams. Fundraising, testimonial events or dinners and related activities like silent auctions, raffles, or telethons. For more information, visit OAUW.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and governmental bodies serving the Greater Green Bay area, focusing on innovative projects that improve community quality of life in areas such as arts, education, health, and human services.

The Green Bay Packers Foundation awards grants to organizations that will use the funds for programs or projects that address arts and culture, athletics and education. Donor Name: Green Bay Packers Foundation State: Wisconsin County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Foundation, an entity independent of the Green Bay Packers, Inc., supports charities possessing one or more of the following goals: perpetuates a community environment that promotes families and the competitive value of athletics; contributes to player and fan welfare; ensures the safety and education of children; and/or prevents cruelty to animals.  Funding Information Applicants can enter a minimum request of $3,000 and a maximum request of $8,000. Eligibility Criteria An organization is eligible to submit an application if it is: Physically located in the state of Wisconsin; Classified as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code for a minimum of two years; and Requesting funding for a project/program that addresses issues for at least one of the current year’s focus areas. For more information, visit Green Bay Packers Foundation.

Grant Opportunity: West Bend Event and Tourism Development Grant Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for consideration, event or tourism development projects must meet the following criteria: The event must take place in the City of West Bend between October 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. The event must be open to the public, with the option to charge admission. Preference will be given to nonprofit organizations. Priority will be given to new and expanding events that direct marketing efforts outside of West Bend and Washington County. Application Process: Application Deadline: May 22, 2024, at noon Review and Award Date: Tuesday, May 28, at noon (City Hall Council Chambers) Grant Details: The West Bend Tourism Commission reserves the right to: Reject applications Award partial or total grant requests Not award grants up to $10,000 each grant period Contact Information: For inquiries regarding the grant program and application, please contact: Jessica Wildes, Assistant City Administrator Phone: 262-335-5170 Email: [email protected]

The Go Outside Fund provides funding that helps connect youth to outdoor, nature-based learning experiences. Donor Name: Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin State: Wisconsin County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/30/2024 Size of the Grant: Less than $1000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Teachers or partner organizations may apply for funding to cover costs that facilitate getting kids outside and hands-on with nature, such as purchasing field supplies, or paying for transportation, substitute teachers, or educator costs. Priorities Grant applications must include a significant component of outdoor activity. Grant applications must directly engage children in outdoor, nature-based learning or facilitate access to the outdoors. Grant applications that align with classroom learning and standards are encouraged but not required. Funding Information Grants between $100 and $500 are available. Eligibility Criteria Applicant must be one of the following: a public charity with approved 501(c)(3) exempt status (under section 509(a)(1), 509(a)(2), or 509(a)(3) Type I and Type II); a federal, state, or local governmental unit, an American Indian nation or tribal community; or an accredited school, college, or university. The following types of organizations are not eligible for funding: individuals; businesses; section 509(a)(3) Type III supporting organizations; private foundations; and private operating foundations. Project must directly engage youth age pre-K – 12. Projects must benefit Wisconsin students. Project activities must take place 6 weeks or more after the Go Outside Fund due date. Project expenses may not have incurred prior to submitting the application. For more information, visit NRFW.

The Sheboygan County Planning & Conservation Department is currently accepting applications for the Sheboygan County Stewardship Fund Grant. This grant aims to foster recreational opportunities and conserve valuable natural resources within Sheboygan County. Applicants can submit projects under three main categories: project development, land acquisition, or discretionary, all subject to case-by-case review. Projects may include land and easement acquisition, development or restoration of parks and trails, protection of water resources, and habitat restoration, among others. Funds awarded by the Stewardship Grant cannot exceed 50% of the total cost of the project or acquisition. The deadline for application submission is May 3, 2024. A matching requirement of 1:1 is necessary for grant consideration.

The Robert & Patricia Endries Family Foundation is seeking applications to benefit of people in need in the Brillion area. Donor Name: Robert & Patricia Endries Family Foundation State: Wisconsin City: Brillion Type of Grant: Grant Deadline:  09/01/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Priority Areas For Giving The vitality of the Brillion area. The disadvantaged, particularly the disabled, homeless, low income, single parents, troubled youth, or the chronically or mentally ill. Health and human services, particularly diabetes, cancer, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease or mental health. Religious causes or organizations with a spiritual purpose. Sports or arts programming and/or sponsorships. Capital Campaign support, especially requests for bricks and mortar. Eligibility Criteria Organizations eligible to receive grants from the Robert & Patricia Endries Family Foundation are those determined by the IRS to be public charities. This encompasses most charitable, scientific, social service, educational and religious organizations described in 501(c)(3) of the tax code, as well as government agencies. Organizations that are not public charities may apply through a fiscal sponsor. Organizations must serve Brillion residents. Grants can be made to qualifying charitable organizations. Organizations that support needs outside of the Brillion area or that do not yet have an established relationship with the foundation should contact the foundation prior to submission of a formal request. Gifts will be directed to specific programs or opportunities, not to general operations (with exception for those organizations the foundation has had a long-established relationship with). Matching or challenge gifts are encouraged, to motivate additional giving by others. Prefer to support national organizations through gifts to the local chapter that serves Brillion residents. Ineligibility Gifts to political organizations or causes. Gifts to organizations that are not pro-life supporters or that lack sensitivity to promoting human life in any form (unborn or born). Gifts to organizations affiliated with or in support of cloning or embryonic stem-cell research. Grants to organizations that receive significant public/government funding. Reimbursement for previously incurred expenses. For more information, visit CFFVR.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit conservation organizations for acquiring land and conservation easements to promote environmental protection and public recreational access.

The Robert G. Campbell Community Fund is a permanent, unrestricted charitable endowment aimed at enhancing the quality of life for citizens of Iowa County, WI. It emphasizes supporting projects and programs that benefit seniors, including recreational and relaxation opportunities, quality of life improvements, and community events that honor the contributions and achievements of senior citizens. The Fund also extends its support to initiatives focused on historic preservation, the arts, the environment, and education. The grant distribution and fundraising efforts are coordinated with the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin and the Health and Human Services Committee of the Iowa County Board of Supervisors. Grant applications are invited from non-profit organizations, local school districts, and local government agencies working towards the betterment of Iowa County, WI. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual deadline: September 1st

This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations, school districts, and local government agencies in Crawford County, Wisconsin, to implement projects that promote economic development in the area.

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 financial support to Wisconsin destinations to help them secure competitive sporting events by covering up to 50% of associated bid fees or venue costs, with a maximum of $30,000 available per request.

This program provides funding to businesses and organizations for projects and events that improve tourism and community experiences in the Plover Area, with a focus on attracting overnight visitors.