Best Community and School Garden Grants in Wisconsin

Wisconsin students pursuing horticulture, gardening, or related studies at in-state 2- or 4-year colleges can receive US $1,500 for tuition through the Myrtle B. Ogilvie Scholarship, supporting future leaders in community and school gardening. The Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region administers this non-renewable award for full-time students with acceptable majors.

Wisconsin students pursuing horticulture or gardening-related studies at an in-state school can receive scholarship support for tuition through this program. Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region offers one non-renewable US $1,000 award each fall semester, which may benefit those preparing to lead or support community and school garden initiatives.

Students pursuing horticulture or gardening-related studies at Wisconsin schools can use this scholarship for tuition expenses. Focused on horticulture and gardening education, Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region offers three non-renewable awards of US $3,000 each, which may benefit those engaged in community or school garden programs in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin nonprofits, producer groups, government agencies, universities, and other agricultural organizations can apply for $10,000 - $100,000 to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops in Wisconsin. Grants from Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection help Wisconsin horticulture and gardening projects that benefit the broader specialty crop industry, including community and school gardens.

Registered nonprofit community and school gardens in Wisconsin with urban organic agriculture projects serving low-income communities can receive US $3,000 to support food-growing efforts. With a mission to back organic community gardens, Nature's Path Organic provides funding for gardens managed without toxic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or GMOs, including those founded by and serving underserved groups.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The ENF Community Investments Program - Beacon Grants offers a unique opportunity for Elks Lodges to initiate and lead charitable projects in their local communities. This program encourages Lodges to develop sustainable initiatives, allowing them to address community needs effectively. By fostering collaboration and providing resources, the Beacon Grants enhance the quality of life for residents, including veterans and families. In 2025-26, all Lodges will have the chance to participate, promoting a culture of giving back.

Nonprofits, public schools, school districts, and Tribes working on youth food and nutrition initiatives in Wisconsin can access funding through Newmans Own Foundation’s Hunger to Health Collaboratory. This national prize offers up to US $100,000 for projects in Indigenous food justice, nutrition education, and school food, which may include community and school garden programming for kids.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities working on horticulture and gardening in Wisconsin can access funding through the Garden Club of Houston for community-focused garden and environmental projects. Grants may support public and school gardens, teaching gardens, arboreta, nature centers, educational events, publications, scholarships, and related civic improvement efforts, with priority given to the greater Houston area.

Schools, homeschooling families, and education organizations in Wisconsin can receive support to install hydroponic classroom gardens that enhance STEM and nutrition education. Rise Gardens supports horticulture and gardening projects that integrate NGSS-aligned, hands-on science, entrepreneurship activities, and community-building experiences, which may benefit community and school garden programs across the U.S., including Wisconsin.

Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers provides Wisconsin horticulture and gardening students with US $1,000 scholarships for education in cut flower production. Degree-seeking students in horticulture or floriculture who plan careers in commercial cut flower operations, including those involved with community or school gardens, may be eligible and also receive a one-year ASCFG membership.

Wisconsin universities, colleges, and federal research institutions conducting floriculture and related horticulture or gardening research can access funding through American Floral Endowment’s Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund. Grants support significant research and educational projects, including equipment tied to a research plan, with results shared publicly and annual renewal possible based on progress.

Wisconsin school garden and 3rd grade educators can access funding and in-kind cabbage plants through Bonnie Plants Foundation’s 3rd Grade Cabbage Grant Program. Third grade classes, teachers, parents, and administrators in the 48 contiguous states receive free plants, and one student per participating state is awarded US $1,000 in in-kind support for their standout cabbage.

With a mission to support horticulture and gardening, KidsGardening provides Wisconsin community and school garden organizers with funding to turn vacant lots into active garden spaces. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) and other tax-exempt organizations, or groups with a fiscal sponsor, serving under-resourced communities can receive US $20,000 to build gardens engaging at least fifteen participants.

Nonprofit floral industry organizations offering retail floral education, including those in Wisconsin, can seek funding to reduce or waive registration fees for floral industry events. Grants from American Floral Endowment help horticulture and gardening programs expand access to industry conferences and educational opportunities through its Meinders Retail Florist Education Grant Fund.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with local community projects in Wisconsin can apply for Kubota’s Hometown Proud Grant Program; awards Up to US $50,000 combining cash and equipment for community improvement. Horticulture and gardening, community gardens, parks, and public space projects may be especially competitive, with support from local Kubota dealers and national recognition.

Academic, governmental, industry, and 501(c)(3) researchers conducting horticulture and plant science projects that benefit specialty cut flower growers in Wisconsin can apply for competitive funding from the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, totaling US $30,000. With a mission to advance research, it supports one-year projects, including those connected to community or school garden initiatives.

Youth-serving organizations planning or improving garden programs can receive US $500 in supplies and materials to engage at least 15 children and teens. Focused on horticulture and gardening, KidsGardening invites programs across the U.S., including Wisconsin community and school gardens, with priority for under-resourced communities and projects demonstrating strong educational impact.

NGC-member garden clubs in Wisconsin can apply for National Garden Clubs’ Ames Tools Grant, receiving up to US $250 in in-kind tools for community or school gardening and garden therapy projects. Eligible projects run March 1–September 30, 2026, and may involve joint ventures with other local organizations.

Wisconsin community and school garden groups that are National Garden Clubs member clubs can access funding for horticulture, beautification, and environmental education projects. Eligible clubs may receive up to US $2,000 for community gardens, school gardens, public landscaping, restoration, or environmental education events through the Plant America Community Project Grant program from National Garden Clubs.

The Schilling Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides six $3,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from select schools. Renewable for up to three years, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA, enroll in 12 credit hours, and major in Agriculture. An essay submission is required, and applicants must demonstrate financial need by submitting their FAFSA-SAI. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing degrees in various Agriculture fields.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Harry Emley and Mary Joslin Bennett Scholarship

Selection based upon:

• Academic achievement, financial need, community and school service, and recommendations.

Awards

• One $500 scholarship

The Fisher Family Lost Acres Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, provides financial assistance to students pursuing agriculture, horticulture, or related majors. Eligible applicants include undergraduate and graduate students planning to enroll in accredited post-secondary institutions in the U.S. Scholarships can reach up to $3,000 and may affect other financial aid. Students are encouraged to check with college financial aid offices for guidance on potential implications.

The Diana and Leon Feffer Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, provides financial support to residents of Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties. Eligible students include undergraduates and graduates attending accredited institutions in the U.S. Students can receive up to $3,000, which may affect financial aid. Scholarships can cover tuition and other educational costs, and recipients should confirm tax implications with their colleges or tax advisors.

About

Paul Newman was born and raised in Ohio by parents who owned a successful sporting goods store. He enlisted in the Navy and completed his military service as a radioman/gunner in the Pacific during World War II. Seeing his father’s business ethic during the Great Depression and experiencing the war fueled his desire to help others in need.

In 1958, Paul made his acting debut on Broadway in “Picnic,” where he also met his future wife, Joanne Woodward. Paul started a successful race car driving career inspired by training for the film Winning. He went on to win second place in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world’s oldest endurance race event. After years of acting and being recognized for his achievements on screen and stage, he received many accolades including an Oscar for Best Actor in The Color of Money.

Paul used his fame for good. He was dedicated to civil rights–attending the March on Washington in August 1963–women’s rights, and gay rights. He used his platform to advocate for equal pay for his female co-stars. He was a vocal political advocate committed to ending the nuclear arms race and determined to elect opponents of war and militarism. President Jimmy Carter appointed him to a United Nations General Assembly session on nuclear disarmament.

In 1982, Paul Newman and his friend Hotch founded a food company on a bit of a lark. They turned a profit selling salad dressing that first year, and did something truly radical when they decided to “give it all away” to good causes.

Paul established Newman’s Own Foundation to ensure the continuation of his philanthropic legacy after his passing. 40+ years since its founding, his first of its kind food company and its innovative business model are still going strong.

Garden Grants

Through Whole Foods Market’s Garden Grant program, schools turn outdoor spaces into powerful hands-on learning gardens that connect kids with food, spark their curiosity and support classroom curriculum.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Van Cott Family Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Kermit Van Cott and his son Forrest to provide tuition assistance to a graduating Senior from one of the High Schools in Susquehanna County, with priority given to Blue Ridge, who will major in Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Horticulture, Botany, Forestry, or Agriculture and who will matriculate at college or a post-secondary degree program.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Robert Woolley Scholarship

Open to graduating seniors from Stanislaus County attending a four-year university to study horticulture.

Award Amount:

• $10,000