Wisconsin Private Grants

The Community Vision Fund, established by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, aims to address community needs and promote well-being in Calumet, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, and the Neenah-Menasha area of Winnebago counties in Wisconsin. This grant program aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering a thriving community through strategic investments in various focus areas. The fund provides grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000, with up to $2,500 available for community event sponsorships, seeking to create broad and positive societal impact. The primary target beneficiaries of this fund are under-resourced and historically excluded communities and organizations, as well as rural communities within the specified counties. The fund also prioritizes organizations and programs led by individuals with lived experience related to the issues being addressed, aiming for solutions that are deeply rooted in community understanding. The overarching impact goals are to advance well-being for all by supporting initiatives in critical areas such as Arts and Culture, Community and Neighborhood Development, Environment, Financial Stability and Well-being, and Nonprofit Effectiveness. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined to maximize its impact. Beyond the general focus areas, the fund specifically prioritizes requests that invest in systems change efforts and systems thinking, encouraging long-term, sustainable solutions rather than short-term fixes. A crucial strategic priority is the application of a diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism (DEIA) lens to all grantmaking decisions, ensuring that funding promotes equitable opportunities and addresses systemic disparities. While specific measurable outcomes are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the fund's strategic priorities imply expected outcomes such as increased equity, improved community well-being, enhanced organizational effectiveness, and positive systems-level change within the targeted communities. By investing in under-resourced populations, rural areas, and initiatives led by those with lived experience, the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region operates with a theory of change that believes in empowering local communities and fostering inclusive development for lasting positive impact.

The Public Welfare Foundation's Grant Program aims to support community-led, restorative, and racially just approaches to justice in the United States. The focus areas include innovative criminal justice reform in specific states and cities, dismantling structures that have harmed people of color, investing in community-based solutions to reduce mass incarceration, and reframing the narrative around the U.S. criminal justice system through storytelling and journalism.

Established in 2000, the Argyle Community Fund (ACF) is a permanent endowment dedicated to the enhancement and improvement of life in the Argyle area. As part of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, the ACF annually redistributes a portion of its earnings back to the community through grants. These grants are aimed at supporting a wide range of areas including education, youth, elderly, health care, historic preservation, the arts, and the environment. The advisory board selects recipients once a year, focusing on non-profit organizations, the local school district, and local government agencies that offer charitable programs or projects beneficial to the Argyle community. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual deadline October 1st

The Ed & Joyce Creske Family Foundation Grants aim to support charitable organizations that serve the central Wisconsin community, particularly in Lincoln, Marathon, and Portage Counties. The foundation prioritizes funding for causes that directly impact the Mosinee community. The foundation honors the philanthropic legacy of Ed and Joyce Creske, who built successful businesses in the area and have a long history in the Mosinee community. Applications are reviewed by an advisory committee and must be submitted electronically by the first business day of September.

The Women's Fund is committed to providing a permanent endowment to support non-profit agencies serving women and girls in Rock County. By focusing on hands-on grant-making and leadership through volunteer opportunities, the Fund aims to mirror the diverse population it serves, welcoming donors of all backgrounds. Established as a component of the Community Foundation, its Advisory Board, consisting of community volunteers and foundation staff, is dedicated to raising funds and recommending grants that address the current needs of women and girls in Rock County, Wisconsin. The Fund specifically seeks proposals for projects or programs that address the mental health needs of women and girls, covering a wide range of services from prevention and response to various mental health issues. Collaborative efforts across Rock County are encouraged to maximize impact. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual deadline: September 15th

The Women's Giving Circle Grant Fund is a competitive grant opportunity offered annually by the Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County. The WGC aims to support the needs of women and families in Dunn County through collaborative philanthropy. Non-profit organizations that primarily benefit women and/or children/families are eligible to apply. The typical award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 or more. Applicants must be certified 501(c)(3) organizations or governmental/educational organizations. The proposed project must have a geographical focus on Dunn County and demonstrate cultural sensitivity. The grant does not fund capital campaigns, deficit reductions, organizational endowments, travel grants, event tickets/sponsorships, ongoing operational expenses, grants to individuals, political parties/activities/candidates/action committees, or programs requiring adherence to religious beliefs. Only one grant proposal per organization is allowed per cycle, and all funds must be used within one year unless an extension is granted. The decision process involves review by the grants committee and final approval by the WGC board members in July. Notification of decisions will be sent in August, and the grant funds must be used within one calendar year. Grantees are required to acknowledge support from the Women's Giving Circle in their project materials and submit a final grant report within 30 days of project completion or one year from the award date. To apply for this grant opportunity, eligible applicants must create an account on the Community Foundation's online grant application system starting in January 2022. Required uploads include current Board of Directors information, organizational budget with projected revenues/expenses for the current year, audited financial statement (if available), and proof of current IRS 990 filing. For more information or assistance with the application process, applicants can contact the Community Foundation at 715-232-8019 or email [email protected]. Funding Organization: Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County Contact Information: Community Foundation of Dunn County, 715-232-8019, [email protected] Award Details: Typical award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 or more. Eligibility: Non-profit organizations that primarily benefit women and/or children/families. Applicants

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.

The 501vc® Investment Fund is seeking to invest $200,000 to $300,000 in early-stage climate tech startups in the Greater Midwest region, focusing on sectors like advanced materials, renewable energy, and agriculture technologies.

The PRISM (Promoting Rural Interconnections for Sexual Minorities) grant program, offered by the PFund Foundation, is designed to bolster the capacity and connectivity of rural LGBTQ+ organizations across a five-state service area: Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, including Native Nations within these states. This initiative directly aligns with PFund's mission to support LGBTQ+ communities, particularly in underserved rural areas. By focusing on rural interconnections, PFund aims to address the unique challenges faced by queer individuals in small towns and rural parts of the upper Midwest, fostering a more connected and resilient LGBTQ+ ecosystem in these regions. The primary beneficiaries of the PRISM program are LGBTQIA2S+ populations in rural communities within the specified states. The program targets organizations that primarily serve these populations, have been in operation for at least one year, are based in or serve rural areas (towns under 50,000 people), and are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits or informal groups with a fiscal sponsor. The impact goals are to increase the capacity of these organizations, enhance their connections through networking, and empower them to effectively respond to the specific issues affecting queer people in their communities. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around creating networks for LGBTQ+ organizations and groups to facilitate resource sharing, collaborative learning, and collective action. This cohort collaboration is a central tenet, designed to build a strong, supportive community among rural LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations. The funding, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 for a 12-month period, supports these organizations in strengthening their infrastructure and programs to better serve their constituents. Expected outcomes include more robust and sustainable rural LGBTQ+ organizations, increased inter-organizational collaboration, and a more unified response to the challenges faced by queer individuals in the upper Midwest's rural areas. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the program's emphasis on capacity building, connection, and cohort collaboration suggests that metrics would likely include the number of organizations participating, the types of resources shared, the attendance and engagement in monthly virtual meetings, and qualitative assessments of increased organizational effectiveness and community impact. PFund Foundation's strategic priority with the PRISM program is clearly to support and uplift rural LGBTQ+ communities, recognizing their distinct needs and often overlooked struggles. The theory of change underpinning PRISM is that by providing targeted financial support, training, and fostering a collaborative network, rural LGBTQ+ organizations will become more resilient and effective. This, in turn, will lead to improved services, stronger advocacy, and a better quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals living in these areas, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and inclusive Upper Midwest.

The 2024-2025 Sparks Grant Program, initiated by the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (WBPDD), is designed to foster greater social connections and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities. This program directly aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities by promoting their participation in inclusive and meaningful community activities. The grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, aim to support initiatives that break down barriers and improve societal attitudes towards people with disabilities. The primary target beneficiaries of the Sparks Grant Program are individuals with disabilities, their families, and community groups or organizations that are committed to fostering inclusion but may lack the knowledge or resources to do so effectively. Traditionally underserved groups, including faith-based, civic, and nonprofit organizations, school districts, municipalities, family groups, and individuals with strong community connections, are especially encouraged to apply. The program seeks to empower these groups to create more accessible and welcoming environments. The program's key priorities and focuses are multifaceted. It emphasizes increasing social connections for people with disabilities, educating individuals and organizations on implementing inclusive programming, and encouraging community members to engage with and improve their attitudes toward people with disabilities. Examples of fund usage include making school extracurriculars accessible, hosting community conversations on inclusion, and implementing innovative ways to make families with children with disabilities feel welcome in faith communities. The expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in inclusive community activities, a greater understanding among organizations and individuals of how to offer inclusive programming, and improved attitudes within communities toward people with disabilities. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed, the focus is on tangible improvements in accessibility, participation, and societal acceptance. The grant duration is one year, allowing for focused efforts and demonstrable progress within that timeframe. The WBPDD's strategic priorities, as reflected in this grant, revolve around a theory of change that posits that by providing targeted funding and encouragement, communities can be transformed into more inclusive spaces. This involves not only direct support for individuals with disabilities but also empowering the broader community to actively participate in creating an inclusive environment. The program encourages innovative approaches and aims to build a network of inclusive practices across all counties in Wisconsin.

This grant provides financial support to charitable organizations and local governments in the Clintonville area for projects that enhance health, education, and community development.

The Lancaster Community Fund, established in 1999, is a permanent, unrestricted charitable endowment committed to the well-being of the Lancaster community. It enables individuals, organizations, and businesses to support a wide range of charitable interests within Lancaster, including the elderly, historic preservation, the arts, the environment, and education. Each year, a portion of the Fund's earnings is distributed as grants to enhance community welfare. The Fund operates through a nine-member volunteer advisory board responsible for fundraising and grant distribution. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations, the local school district, and local government agencies that propose projects or programs benefiting the community. Awards announced in July. Grant renewed every year. Annual Spring deadline: May 1st

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.

This funding opportunity supports Wisconsin-based nonprofit organizations in creating innovative public humanities projects that promote civic engagement, empathy, and community connection.

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.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide career development programs for Black youth aged 14-24 in designated NBA markets.

This program provides funding for community-driven projects that improve the Schenk-Atwood-Starkweather-Yahara neighborhood in Madison, Wisconsin, with a focus on diversity, inclusivity, and positive social impact.

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation offers grants to 501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations in the greater West Bend area, Wisconsin, prioritizing projects in arts and culture, education, family, youth, elderly, health and human services, community development, and historic preservation, with an application deadline of 10/07/2024.

The Robert & Patricia Endries Family Foundation seeks applications to benefit people in need in the Brillion area of Wisconsin. The foundation's mission aligns with supporting the vitality of the Brillion area and assisting disadvantaged individuals within the community. This grant program is designed to create a positive impact by addressing various critical needs, ensuring that residents have access to essential services and opportunities for well-being. The foundation prioritizes supporting the disadvantaged, specifically targeting the disabled, homeless, low-income individuals, single parents, troubled youth, and those suffering from chronic or mental illnesses. Additionally, it focuses on health and human services, including support for diabetes, cancer, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, and mental health. Religious causes with a spiritual purpose and sports or arts programming and sponsorships are also key areas of focus. The foundation's strategic priorities include supporting capital campaigns, particularly for "bricks and mortar" projects, and encouraging matching or challenge gifts to motivate additional giving. While not explicitly stated as "theory of change," the foundation's preference to support national organizations through local chapters serving Brillion residents indicates a strategy to leverage broader resources for local impact. Gifts are directed to specific programs or opportunities, rather than general operations, ensuring targeted impact. Expected outcomes include improved health outcomes for those with specific illnesses, enhanced quality of life for disadvantaged groups, and strengthened community vitality in Brillion through various programs. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the focus on direct program support suggests that successful applications will demonstrate clear objectives and the potential for positive, tangible changes within the community. The foundation's emphasis on local impact and specific areas of need demonstrates a clear, albeit implicit, theory of change centered on direct community investment and collaboration.