The Nonprofit Access Grant, administered by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) through its Universal Service Fund (USF), provides targeted financial support to nonprofit organizations facilitating affordable telecommunications access across the state. The program is rooted in state policy objectives to address the high cost and digital inaccessibility faced by low-income residents, individuals with disabilities, and communities in areas with relatively high telecommunications costs. The USF, funded by telecommunications providers operating in Wisconsin, supports this grant among other digital equity initiatives.
The purpose of the Nonprofit Access Grant is to expand access to essential telecommunications services. Eligible projects must support affordability for underserved populations through means such as equipment provision (e.g., hotspots, laptops), services (e.g., internet connectivity), or skills training (e.g., digital literacy, workforce development). The program does not support infrastructure construction or speculative partner activities. Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs, with applicants required to contribute at least 25% in matching funds, which may include cash or eligible in-kind contributions.
For FY2026, a total of $500,000 is available for distribution, with no minimum or maximum individual award limits, so long as requests do not exceed 75% of total project budgets. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The application must be submitted via the PSC Grants System, and the process involves entering organizational details, project descriptions, a budget that meets match requirements, and detailed narrative responses addressing eligibility, need, goals, implementation plans, evaluation, and partnerships.
Applications open on December 4, 2025, and close sharply at 1:30 PM CT on February 2, 2026. All applications must be complete and submitted before this deadline—late submissions will not be accepted. Evaluation includes an initial screening for eligibility, followed by a merit-based review considering project need, implementation, budget appropriateness, and evaluation plans. Projects will be scored in five categories, each worth up to 10 points. Awards are finalized by the Commission during a public Open Meeting.
Grants cover a two-year performance period from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028. Award recipients will enter into formal agreements and must comply with reporting and reimbursement procedures through the PSC Grant System. For questions, applicants can contact the PSC USF Grants Team at PSCUSFNonProfitGrants@wisconsin.gov. Program contacts include Milena Bernardinello (608-267-6919, Milena.Bernardinello@wisconsin.gov) and Damarr Purifoy (608-267-9819, Damarr.Purifoy@wisconsin.gov). The grant is offered annually, with previous years awarding the full $500,000 to an average of 13–17 grantees per cycle.
Ensure the 25% match is accurate and not exceeded; avoid speculative or infrastructure-heavy proposals
