Best Forest County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Weed Management Area - Private Forest Grant Program (WMA-PFGP)

The WMA-PFGP assists eligible weed management groups (WMG) in addressing invasive plants, both by dealing directly with the invasives and by providing education, information and outreach to others. This is a reimbursement program that covers up to 75% of the eligible costs, 25% match is required.

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Targeted Runoff Management Grant Program

The Targeted Runoff Management (TRM) Grant Program offers competitive grants for local governments for the control of pollution that comes from diffuse sources, also called “nonpoint source (NPS)” pollution. Grants from the TRM Program reimburse costs for agricultural or urban runoff management practices in targeted, critical geographic areas with surface water or groundwater quality concerns.

The WDNR Shooting Range Grants support counties, cities, and organizations in constructing outdoor shooting ranges, including essential facilities like backstops, benches, and protective fencing. Grants are reimbursement-based, requiring applicants to cover costs upfront. Eligible entities include governmental agencies and educational institutions. The program prioritizes sustainable practices in managing Wisconsin's natural resources while providing safe outdoor recreational opportunities. Interested applicants should refer to the program guidance for detailed instructions on eligibility and application processes.

The Rev. Dr. Roosevelt and Dr. Nurame Austin, Sr. Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors Pastor Roosevelt Austin's dedication to his church and community. This scholarship supports graduating high school seniors from Saginaw County pursuing undergraduate degrees or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it fosters educational opportunities for students in skilled trades, reflecting Pastor Austin's belief in the power of education.

The Raymond and Mary Jane Barry Educational Scholarship Fund, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, aims to support students from Saginaw County pursuing careers in technical fields. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, this fund honors the Barrys' commitment to education and community service. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 2.7 GPA and demonstrate enrollment in a Career and Technical Education program or an undergraduate degree. This scholarship encourages students to overcome challenges with humor and determination.

The Pat Brady Community Service Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Pat Brady, a dedicated athlete and educator. Awarded annually to a deserving student-athlete from Saginaw County, this scholarship recognizes those who have demonstrated a commitment to their community while excelling in both athletics and academics. With a focus on supporting high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training, this scholarship fosters the development of future leaders in the community.

The Pama Brantley-Phillips Scholarship, established in 2001, honors a beloved special education teacher dedicated to helping students with disabilities. This scholarship aims to support individuals pursuing a degree in special education within the Tri-City area. With awards typically ranging from $500 to $4,000, it addresses the growing demand for skilled educators in special education, fostering a new generation of professionals who can make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The Marvin and Janice Brandle Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Saginaw County. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0, demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled full- or part-time in an undergraduate or graduate program. Scholarships typically range from $500 to $4,000, addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in trades such as welding, carpentry, and electrical work.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Healthy Lakes & Rivers Grants

(See page 17 of attatched PDF)

Healthy Lakes & Rivers grants provide funding to qualified organizations to help facilitate the installation of practices on public or private property to improve habitat and water quality. They support five simple and inexpensive best practices including fish sticks, native plantings, diversions, rock infiltrations, and rain gardens. Practices must follow department guidelines published in the Healthy Lakes and Rivers Action Plan and supporting technical guidance. Detailed information is available on the Healthy Lakes & Rivers website.

The Frank N. Andersen Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of a dedicated philanthropist in Saginaw. Established to support local students pursuing education in Career and Technical Education (CTE), it provides financial assistance ranging from $500 to $4,000. Eligible applicants include Saginaw County high school seniors and undergraduate students with specific GPA requirements. This scholarship continues Mr. Andersen's tradition of uplifting the community, reflecting his belief in the importance of education and helping others.

The Daniel J. Alcock Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in trades such as welding, electrical work, and auto mechanics. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be enrolled part- or full-time. The scholarship honors Dan Alcock's legacy, a dedicated mentor in the electrical trade, and aims to empower students to achieve their career aspirations in technical education.

The Charles F. and Edith E. Brunkow Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, aims to support residents of Buena Vista Charter Township pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training. With a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0, this scholarship provides financial assistance ranging from $500 to $4,000, fostering education in skilled trades such as welding, auto mechanics, and culinary arts, which are increasingly in demand.

The Buena Vista Township Lions Club Scholarship, managed by the Saginaw Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to high school seniors pursuing undergraduate degrees or career and technical education. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be residents of Buena Vista Township or Saginaw County. This scholarship ranges from $500 to $4,000, aiming to support students in skilled trades, highlighting the growing demand for workforce-ready individuals in various technical fields.

The Batkoski Family Scholarship honors Frank Batkoski, a dedicated sheet metal worker and Army veteran, by supporting students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE). Established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to inspire hard work and craftsmanship. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it targets high school seniors from Saginaw County who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and seek to excel in skilled trades. This initiative reflects the growing demand for skilled workers in various trades.

The Nick Andros Music Scholarship, established by the family and friends of Nick Andros, honors his passion for music and positive inspiration. This scholarship seeks to support students who demonstrate Nick's spirit through their dedication to the arts. Eligible candidates must be high school seniors from Saginaw County with a minimum GPA of 2.0, pursuing an undergraduate degree. Applicants are required to submit an MP3 of their work, showcasing their musical talents.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Program

This is a federal program administered in all states that encourages the creation and interpretation of high-quality outdoor recreational opportunities. Funds received by the DNR for this program are split between DNR projects and grants to local governments for outdoor recreation activities. Grants cover up to 50% of eligible project costs. LWCF grants provide local units of governments, tribes, and school districts opportunities to receive grants for outdoor recreation activities. Payment of grant funds is on a reimbursement basis.

Public access is fundamental to this grant program. Reasonable public access is required for any property purchased or developed with grant funds. The DNR can help determine what constitutes appropriate and reasonable public access for grant-funded properties. 

The Nels Andersen Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors a pioneer in early childhood education. This scholarship supports Saginaw County residents pursuing undergraduate studies in early childhood development, elementary education, or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training, with awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and can be high school seniors or current college students. Preference is given to full-time students and former participants of Saginaw County Head Start programs.

The American Business Women’s Association – Saginaw Charter Chapter Scholarship supports women pursuing higher education, fostering personal and professional growth. Established in 1954, this scholarship encourages female students in Saginaw County to achieve their academic goals, particularly those enrolled in career and technical education programs. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it aims to empower women in various fields by providing financial assistance, ensuring that the next generation of businesswomen can thrive and contribute to their communities.

The Alpha Sigma Chapter, Alpha Delta Kappa, Inc. Scholarship supports aspiring educators in Saginaw County. Established in 2018, it honors the legacy of women educators dedicated to improving educational excellence. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be full-time students pursuing an undergraduate degree in education, and demonstrate residency in Saginaw County. The scholarship amount ranges from $500 to $4,000, with preference given to previous recipients. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of educators.

About ACSM

ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, with nearly 50,000 international, national and regional members and certified fitness professionals.

ACSM Fellowship

CSM Fellow members have demonstrated high standards of professional development and shown a commitment to the goals and long‑range activities of the college.

The purpose of fellowship is to recognize commendable service to ACSM; to encourage continued service to the College in a leadership role with ongoing dedication; also, to recognize distinguished achievement in sports medicine and related disciplines.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Adirondack Construction Scholarship

A scholarship established by Adirondack Construction in Vernon to support the future career goals of students pursuing business or construction management.

The Lakes and Rivers Planning Grants, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, provide vital funding for surface water protection and restoration projects. These grants support a variety of initiatives, including education, ecological assessments, and invasive species control. Whether you're developing organizational capacity or implementing specific projects, this program enables you to enhance Wisconsin's natural resources effectively. For detailed eligibility requirements and application instructions, refer to the Surface Water Grant Program Applicant Guide.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is inviting eligible organizations to submit unsolicited research proposals targeting key areas like housing affordability and homelessness. This initiative aims to foster high-quality research that informs housing policies and programs. Projects must secure matching funds of at least 50% of the total cost and align with HUD's research priorities to qualify for cooperative agreements, ensuring ongoing collaboration throughout the research process.

The Don Forsyth 'Circle K' Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, recognizes outstanding members of Circle K clubs in New York State. This scholarship aims to support students committed to serving individuals with Down Syndrome through careers in special education, speech, physical, or occupational therapy. Established in 1968, the foundation empowers local communities and provides meaningful financial assistance to students demonstrating exceptional community service.

Transforming Maternal Health: Third-Party Administrator to Manage Disbursement and Oversight of Provider Infrastructure Payments

Overview

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is a recipient of a cooperative agreement through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for a 10-year service delivery and payment model designed to improve maternal health outcomes for people enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model will test whether targeted technical (TA) assistance, coupled with payment and delivery system reforms, can drive a whole-person care-delivery approach to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care while reducing Medicaid and CHIP program expenditures. DHS is seeking a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) to manage the disbursement and oversight of Provider Infrastructure Payments (PIPs) under the CMS Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model. The purpose of the TMaH model is to expand access to maternal health care and improve maternal health outcomes. These payments support care delivery transformation for hospitals, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Rural Health Clinics (RHCs), and a broader "Maternal Health Care Team.” The effective date of the agreement awarded under this funding opportunity will be June 15, 2026.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

County Conservation AIDS

County conservation grants provide financial assistance to enhance county/tribal fish and wildlife programs.

This Fish and Wildlife Management Grant Program was created to assist counties in the improvement of the fish and wildlife resources. The fund was established by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1965 as an alternative to bounty payments on coyote, foxes and bobcats. Every year since the bounty program was canceled, a state allocation equal to the average annual bounty payment has been earmarked as matching money for a growing list of county-sponsored fish and wildlife habitat projects.

After the state budget is approved, funds are allocated to each county in proportion to the ratio of the size of each county to the total area of the state.

The Wetland Restoration Incentives Grant, funded by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, offers $10,000 incentives for projects enhancing or restoring wetlands. Grantees must have completed a comprehensive land use plan that demonstrates a connection to lakes. This initiative directly supports the preservation of Wisconsin's natural resources, including surface water management and ecological health. By promoting sustainable practices, it aims to foster community engagement and environmental stewardship while addressing the challenges of wetland degradation.