Best Columbia County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion grant, funded by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance access to STEM education for underserved communities. This initiative supports schools in expanding their PLTW programs and includes training for teachers and resources for students. Priority is given to schools near John Deere facilities that demonstrate need and a commitment to student participation in STEM activities. The project aligns with the foundation's goal to impact one million youth by 2030.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to support organizations enhancing services at farmers markets. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for marketing efforts, technology upgrades, and vendor education. Eligible applicants must be bona fide farmers markets with at least three vendors of locally-produced products and must operate in the designated 144-county area. Priority is given to markets that have not previously received funding.

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. 

Mission : MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.Columbus Area Endowment GrantColumbus Area Endowment Grant (CAE) is dedicated to enhancing the educational, cultural and economic vitality of the Columbus area for present and future generations. It supports the community’s quality of life through charitable grants. Interest areas include cultural enrichment, community development, education, environment and historic preservation.

CAE awards grants to nonprofit organizations that serve the Columbus and Fall River communities in parts of Dane, Columbia and Dodge Counties.

Specifically, we provide:

• Program grants that support new programs or expand existing programs that have a track record of success.
• Capital grants that support construction or purchase of facilities, land, vehicles or equipment.

Local nonprofits in Columbia County, Wisconsin can seek community grants supporting civic leadership development and philanthropy-related work, with awards of US $500 - US $1,000. Community Foundation of South Central Wisconsin also serves Adams, Iowa, Juneau, Richland, Sauk, and Vernon counties, helping area 501(c)(3) organizations address local needs through flexible community funding.

Columbia County, Wisconsin environmental and boating-related nonprofits can access funding through Great Lakes Foundation to support marine safety education, wilderness preservation, and cruising-related projects on the Great Lakes. Eligible 501(c)(3) efforts may include research, infrastructure like breakwaters or dredging, and public education that enhances appreciation and protection of Great Lakes cruising areas.

The Old National Bank Foundation provides sponsorships to enhance community initiatives in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Their mission focuses on social responsibility, supporting underrepresented groups, and aligning with the Community Reinvestment Act. Sponsorships cover events such as fundraisers and sporting events, emphasizing active engagement and measurable impact. The Foundation aims to improve quality of life through strategic partnerships and meaningful contributions.

The F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. These grants, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support state-level management plans to combat aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and their designees, with funding awarded through a competitive selection process.

Great Lakes ecosystem and water resource projects in Columbia County, Wisconsin can access funding through the Great Lakes Protection Fund to achieve measurable, regionally significant ecological improvements. The Fund supports collaborative, science-based initiatives worldwide from nonprofits, universities, governments, businesses, and individuals that deliver transformational, basin-wide benefits to the Great Lakes through real-world, action-oriented solutions.

Nonprofit organizations and eligible public entities running food access or nutrition education programs in Columbia County, Wisconsin can seek support for comprehensive malnutrition and hunger alleviation initiatives. Bayer Fund provides funding for experienced, financially sound organizations in designated legacy-Monsanto communities, including programs like food pantries, school backpack efforts, community gardens, and behavior-change nutrition education.

Farmers market vendors in Columbia County, Wisconsin can receive up to US $500 to improve education, marketing, or technology for their booths, including branding, websites, mobile payment tools, and display equipment. Grants from Compeer Financial help eligible client vendors strengthen their presence at bona fide farmers markets serving local agricultural producers.

Rural volunteer fire, rescue, and ambulance departments collaborating across adjacent jurisdictions in Columbia County, Wisconsin can apply for funding to purchase specialized emergency response equipment. With a mission to strengthen rural communities, Compeer Financial provides up to US $7,500 toward items like chest compression systems, hydraulic extrication tools, or oxygen tank refill equipment for regional response teams.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

Nonprofit, charitable, and educational organizations addressing health and wellness, hunger, or youth education in Columbia County, Wisconsin can seek up to US $5,000 to support community programs. Grants from Cousins Subs Make It Better Foundation help local 501(c)(3)s improve general welfare through cancer care, food access, K–12 education, and youth development initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Columbia County, Wisconsin can apply for Old National Bank Foundation grants of approximately US $15,000 to support community-impact programs. Grants from Old National Bank help fund affordable housing, workforce development, economic development, and financial empowerment initiatives, with priority for underrepresented and low- to moderate-income communities within the bank’s regional footprint.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. Mission : MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.About Rio Community Foundation GrantThe Rio Community Foundation (RCF) Committee awards grants from the following funds:

• General Education Fund – to support general educational needs in the Rio School District
• Agriculture Fund – to support agricultural related educational needs in the Rio School District
• Athletic Fund – to support Rio School District athletics
• Strmiska Fund – to support general community needs within Rio

The W.I.L.D. Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports graduating seniors from designated high schools in several counties. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need, although it is not a requirement. This initiative aims to foster leadership development and enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing further studies in accredited institutions.

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. Mission : MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.About Portage Area Community Fund (PACF) GrantPACF is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the greater Portage area for present and future generations.Key interest areas include:

• Civic and cultural enrichment,
• Natural and historic preservation,
• Parks and recreation,
• Community development,
• Youth and educational resources, and
• The needs of the community in the Portage area.

With a mission to support hunger relief, military and veterans services, and hope-focused programs, this grant provides Columbia County, Wisconsin 501(c)(3) nonprofits with funding for local community impact. Eligible organizations must align with Hunger, Heroes and Hope and be located within 30 miles of a SpartanNash store, office, or distribution center.

The County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant Program aims to support rural communities within Compeer Financial’s territory by providing funding for upgrades and repairs to county fair facilities. Eligible organizations can receive up to $4,000 to enhance livestock buildings, 4-H buildings, and judging arenas. This initiative not only improves facilities but also fosters community engagement and agricultural education, ensuring that fairs continue to thrive in delivering memorable experiences for all ages.

The Fund for Lake Michigan Grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the health of Lake Michigan through projects that yield both immediate and long-term benefits. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions focusing on water quality improvement. Grants range from $700,000 to $900,000 quarterly, with priorities on projects that directly impact water quality and promote sustainable practices. This grant fosters economic growth while ensuring the preservation of vital water resources.

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. Mission: MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.Lodi Area Community Endowment (LACE) GrantThe Lodi Area Community Endowment (LACE) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the greater Lodi area for present and future generations. LACE will accept grant requests from qualifying tax‐ exempt organizations. Key interest areas include: educational, cultural, environmental, and/or civic interests.

Nonprofit organizations planning capital projects in arts, education, or health in Columbia County, Wisconsin can seek support for community-impact initiatives. RCU Foundation provides Wisconsin and Minnesota nonprofits with grants for projects showing strong need, broad community benefit, and sustainability, especially in areas near Royal Credit Union office locations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running youth baseball, softball, or related youth programs in Columbia County, Wisconsin can receive in-kind support through Minnesota Twins Community Fund. The Minnesota Twins Grant provides donated items to help local groups raise funds, with requests submitted online at least six weeks before the event.

The Seneca Foods Foundation Grant supports philanthropic initiatives focused on empowering youth and strengthening communities. Since 1988, it has provided funding for education, community assistance, and internships. The Foundation prioritizes organizations connected to Seneca employees, located near its operational facilities, and those that align with its mission. It requires documented performance results and considers only one request per organization annually, ensuring that grants foster measurable impact within the communities served.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Columbia County, Wisconsin, that run digital literacy or broadband education programs for families or seniors may be eligible for US $2,500 - US $50,000. Charter Communications supports existing programs in Spectrum service areas that bridge the digital divide and can report clear impact metrics for low-income or multicultural communities.

With a mission to support bird conservation, The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin provides Columbia County, Wisconsin 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities with up to US $3,500 for ornithology-related conservation, preservation, and education projects. Eligible programs must serve the Driftless Area counties of southwest Wisconsin and may include citizen science initiatives or academic studies focused on bird conservation.