Wisconsin grants for City or township governments

Grant Opportunity: Sport Fish Restoration - Fishing Pier (SFR-FP) Funding Organization: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Contact Information: - Name: Faith M Murray - Email Address: Faith.Murray@wisconsin.gov - 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 DNRBIGCVASFRGrants@wisconsin.gov. 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

The MadiSUN Backyard Solar Grant Program, funded by the City of Madison and managed by RENEW Wisconsin, aims to expand access to solar power for Madison-based community organizations and affordable housing providers. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to promote renewable energy adoption and support local communities, particularly those serving City of Madison residents. By focusing on non-profit 501(c)3 organizations and affordable housing providers, the program strategically targets entities that can leverage solar installations to benefit a significant number of residents, contributing to sustainable development within the city. The primary beneficiaries of this program are nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations and affordable housing providers located within the City of Madison. The impact goals include increasing the installation of solar systems within these organizations, thereby reducing their energy costs and carbon footprint. Ultimately, this leads to environmental benefits for the City of Madison and provides a long-term, sustainable energy solution for community-focused entities. The program prioritizes organizations that serve City of Madison residents, ensuring that the benefits of solar energy are distributed equitably across the community. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around facilitating solar energy access through financial assistance. Grants are awarded to assist with the installation of solar systems, with funding amounts based on the capacity of the solar energy installed. Specifically, grants fund $250 for every 1 kilowatt of solar energy installed. There are maximum grant amounts of $10,000 for installations less than 100 kilowatts and $15,000 for installations equal to or more than 100 kilowatts. A total of $50,000 in grant funds are available, demonstrating a commitment to making solar power more attainable for eligible organizations. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in solar energy capacity among Madison's community organizations and affordable housing providers. Organizations receiving grants are given 12 months to complete their solar projects, allowing for a timely implementation of these energy solutions. The measurable results will be quantified by the number of kilowatts of solar energy installed through the grants and the number of organizations adopting solar power. This directly contributes to the city's strategic priorities for environmental sustainability and community resilience, with the theory of change positing that direct financial incentives will overcome barriers to solar adoption, leading to widespread benefits.

The Platteville Community Fund, established in 2002, is a permanent, unrestricted charitable endowment aiming to enhance the quality of life in the Platteville area. With over $1,141,000 awarded in grants since its inception, the fund supports community projects across a broad range of areas including the arts, education, health and human services, the environment, and historic preservation. The Platteville Excellence in Education Endowment Fund, part of this family of funds, specifically addresses the educational needs within the Platteville School District that are beyond the scope of the regular school budget. Grants are awarded twice a year to non-profit organizations, the local school district, and/or local government agencies providing charitable programs or projects serving the community. Grant renewed every year. Grant Fall annual deadline:September 15th

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.

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

Local units of government (LUGs) are eligible applications for four Stewardship grant programs and two related federal programs administered by DNR. Applications must be received or postmarked by 11:59 pm on May 1 to be considered. Per s. 990.001(4)(c), Wis. Stats., if any grant application deadline falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or State Holiday, the deadline is moved to the next State working day.

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin is accepting applications for its Women’s Fund, a component fund managed by an Advisory Board of community volunteers and staff. The fund's mission aligns with the Foundation's broader goals by providing a permanently endowed funding source to non-profit agencies serving the needs of women and girls in Rock County, while also offering hands-on grant-making and leadership experiences for Fund donors. This initiative directly supports the Foundation's strategic priorities by empowering women and girls and fostering community engagement in philanthropic efforts. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are women and girls in Rock County, Wisconsin, particularly those facing mental health challenges. The fund aims to address needs such as depression, anxiety, caregiver stress, addictions, work/family stress, isolation, and human trafficking. The impact goals are to improve the mental well-being of this target population through both prevention and response programs. The Foundation's theory of change suggests that investing in girls yields higher returns, impacting women's wages, reproductive choices, and their capacity to raise healthy, educated children who will continue this positive cycle. The program prioritizes proposals from 501(c)(3) charitable Rock County organizations and municipalities. Eligible projects and programs must serve the mental health needs of women and girls, including a wide range of services and interventions. Specific focuses include training programs for targeted audiences, support groups, mentoring programs, and resource identification. The fund strongly encourages collaborations throughout Rock County, emphasizing a community-wide approach to addressing these critical needs. Requests from individuals are explicitly not eligible. Expected outcomes include improved mental health conditions for women and girls in Rock County, increased access to mental health services, and strengthened community resources to support these populations. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the focus on various program types (prevention, response, training, support groups) suggests a commitment to measurable improvements in mental health indicators. The emphasis on community collaborations also implies an expected outcome of a more integrated and effective support system for women and girls in the region.

This program provides early-stage companies in Kenosha, Wisconsin, with free mentorship, resources, and support to help them grow and prepare for investment opportunities.

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 grant provides funding to non-profit organizations, local schools, and government agencies in Lancaster to support various community improvement projects in areas such as education, the arts, the environment, and historic preservation.

The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Program is a competitive federal grant initiative aiming to mitigate pollution in the nation's waterways. The program, funded through the Federal Sport Fish Restoration Account of the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund, allocates about $10 million annually across the United States. The CVA Program supports the construction, renovation, operation, and maintenance of pump-out and dump stations, including floating restrooms and facilities used exclusively by boaters. It also emphasizes educating the public about the environmental impacts of vessel sewage discharges, thereby promoting cleaner water bodies. The program encourages partnerships with private marinas, businesses, and local government units to establish these facilities. With an application deadline of September 1st, eligible entities include private marinas or businesses with public access and local units of government. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual deadline September 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 NRFgrants@WisConservation.org 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 Lindsey.Taylor@WisConservation.org. The grant is renewed every year with a deadline of September 1st.

The Shullsburg Fund, established in 2004 by area citizens, serves as a permanent funding source dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in and around Shullsburg. Managed as a component of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, it annually redistributes a portion of its earnings to finance projects and programs that positively impact community life. The fund focuses on supporting non-profit organizations, the local school district, and local government agencies with charitable initiatives. Grants are ceremoniously awarded in June each year, underlining the fund's commitment to community development and welfare. Grant renewed every year. Grant annual deadline: May 15th

This program provides funding to support innovative arts projects in Racine County, Wisconsin, encouraging collaboration among local artists, schools, and nonprofit organizations.

The Otto Bremer Trust (OBT) is implementing new grantmaking approaches to effectively invest in people, places, and opportunities in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. The new model includes Strategic Grants and Community Responsive Fund grants. Strategic Grants are awarded directly by OBT to organizations with at least $500,000 in expenses from the previous year, aligning with OBT's objectives. Community Responsive Fund grants are managed by intermediary partners, focusing on organizations with less than $500,000 in expenses.

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 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 grants@cfdunncounty.org. Funding Organization: Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County Contact Information: Community Foundation of Dunn County, 715-232-8019, grants@cfdunncounty.org 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

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 support@grants.gov. 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.