Best Workforce Grants in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Fast Forward Grants provide essential funding for health care sector training, supporting projects that enhance collaboration between businesses and workforce partners. With awards ranging from $5,000 to $400,000, these grants aim to address skill shortages, ensuring workers gain necessary training for sustainable employment. This initiative focuses on the health sciences and related fields, promoting professional growth and economic advancement for participants while fostering partnerships among multiple employers.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Great Lakes Federal Grant Navigation Program offers free assistance to local governments in accessing critical federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This program aims to simplify the grant application process, especially for smaller municipalities, by providing one-on-one support and facilitating collaboration among cohort members. By participating, cities can maximize the impact of federal dollars and strengthen their communities in the wake of economic challenges.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Wisconsin Fast Forward Grants program provides funding for customized occupational training aimed at unemployed, underemployed, and incumbent workers across all industry sectors. Grants range from $5,000 to $400,000, with a requirement for a 50% cash or in-kind match. This initiative supports businesses in enhancing workforce skills, leading to full-time and higher wage employment opportunities. Open to all sizes of companies, it aims to bolster the state's workforce and economic growth.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Huntington Impact Investment Philanthropy Grant Program aims to strengthen communities by supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance self-sufficiency and social equality. With a focus on areas such as community revitalization, affordable housing, and economic development, the program prioritizes initiatives that serve low- and moderate-income individuals. Organizations with IRS tax-exempt status can apply for funding to address critical community needs, fostering a more equitable environment for all.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

Workforce Innovation Grant: Healthcare Employment, Access, and Rural Transformation (WIG:HEART)The Workforce Innovation Grant: Healthcare Employment, Access, and Rural Transformation (WIG:HEART) grant program funds competitive grants for innovative projects that develop transformational solutions to workforce challenges that impact the quality and availability of healthcare in Wisconsin's rural regions and communities across Wisconsin. Grants support healthcare industry employers in finding workers and help workers prepare for and connect to better, higher-quality, and more family-sustaining jobs.

The four-year program is scheduled to run from Oct. 30, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2030. The current application is for Year 1 of the grant, which will run from Oct. 30, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2027.

Who We Are

Advancing Wisconsin to be the healthiest state in the nation

AHW provides funding and resources to researchers, organizations, and communities devoted to improving the health of the people of Wisconsin.

Call for Applications: MCW-Led Seed Grants

Funding Summary

AHW’s Call for Applications: MCW-Led Seed Grants supports eligible MCW faculty to develop new approaches and methodologies, test innovative ideas, and foster greater collaboration to address Wisconsin’s leading health challenges and produce deeper impact on health and health equity in Wisconsin. Successful seed grants will build a foundation for future research or health workforce development endeavors beyond the project period. Applicants may request up to $50,000 for projects completed within a 12-month period, beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

To foster a collaborative approach to award selection, applicants will participate in a peer review process to assess proposals submitted to this funding opportunity by their fellow applicants. For the submitted application to be considered for funding, completion of all assigned reviews is required.

Who We Are

Advancing Wisconsin to be the healthiest state in the nation

AHW provides funding and resources to researchers, organizations, and communities devoted to improving the health of the people of Wisconsin.

Call for Applications:

Community-Led Seed Grants

AHW’s Call for Applications: Community-Led Seed Grants supports community-driven efforts to design new strategies, test innovative ideas, and foster greater collaboration to build a foundation for future endeavors to address Wisconsin’s leading health challenges and produce deeper impact on health and health equity in Wisconsin’s communities. Eligible community-based organizations may request up to $50,000 for projects completed within a 12-month period, beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

To foster a collaborative approach to award selection, applicants will participate in a peer review process to assess proposals submitted to this funding opportunity by their fellow applicants. For the submitted application to be considered for funding, completion of all assigned reviews is required.

Following funding determinations, successful community-led applicant teams will be matched with an eligible MCW faculty member from a pre-formed pool developed through the Call for MCW Academic Partner for Community-Led Grants to serve as an additional resource to the funded community-led projects. 

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

Community Health Workers Grants: Strengthening the Rural Health Workforce in Wisconsin

Funding opportunity summary

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) seeks to strengthen the Wisconsin rural health workforce by developing and expanding high-quality and impactful community health worker (CHW) programs in clinical and community settings. There are three main components to this funding opportunity:

• Hiring and supporting CHWs to carry out services in rural communities
• Training CHWs on core competencies and standards
• Building organizational capacity to sustain quality CHW service provision

Applicants may apply to multiple Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funding opportunities for which their organizations are eligible.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

The Transition Readiness Grants program, established under 2017 Act 59 with $1.5 million in funding, aims to help Wisconsin students with disabilities transition to competitive work and post-secondary education. Since its inception in FY 2019, it has received over 130 applications totaling more than $9 million. Eligible school districts can apply for FY 24 funding to support evidence-based transition practices, including transportation options, competitive employment training programs, and post-secondary supports.

About the Department of Health Services (DHS)

The Department of Health Services (DHS) is one of the largest state agencies in Wisconsin, with an annual budget of roughly $15 billion and more than 6,700 employees. DHS is committed to protecting and promoting the health and safety of the people of Wisconsin, making sure everyone can live their best life.

Community Health Workers Training Providers

Funding opportunity summary

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) seeks applications for training providers to develop, provide, and evaluate high-quality training, education, and professional development for community health workers (CHWs) and CHW supervisors as essential components of CHW workforce sustainability.

There are two main components to this funding opportunity:

• Providing CHW Core Competency training and support
• Providing CHW Supervisor training and support

What We Do

At the North Carolina Community Foundation, we bring together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about.

Our mission is to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Our Philanthropic Network

We believe in the power of permanent philanthropy to strengthen our communities and people. By stewarding and growing donors’ gifts, our philanthropic network makes a powerful impact through robust grants and scholarships programs.

Geraldine Mayo Beveridge Scholarship Endowment

About Geraldine Mayo Beveridge

Geraldine “Gerry” Mayo Beveridge taught school in Carteret County for 40 years. She was a Home Economics teacher and thought of her students as her children; she and husband “Captain David” had none of their own. Gerry would discreetly provide classroom supplies and clothing items for students in need. She quietly contributed money toward college for capable students who couldn’t afford it.

Gerry’s concern for students continued after retirement. As a member of the Carteret County Retired School Personnel (CCRSP), Gerry convinced members of the importance of awarding a scholarship to a graduating senior in each high school – East Carteret, West Carteret, and later, Croatan. To raise money, she organized bake sales and brought plants and canned foods to sell to members. The scholarships, though small, were a great effort for members and were greatly appreciated by recipients.

Gerry left a considerable sum of money to CCRSP with the expectation that it be managed well and used for scholarships. Today, the Geraldine Mayo Beveridge Scholarship is awarded to qualifying graduating seniors who want to teach Vocational Education, now called Career and Technical Education.

Gerry’s passion for her students and her love of education continues through this scholarship. She was an amazing educator whose philanthropy will last in perpetuity.

The Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) focuses on enhancing education and workforce development in food and agricultural sciences. It invites applications for various grants aimed at professional development, non-formal education for youth, community college training, and fellowships for both predoctoral and postdoctoral candidates. The program, managed by the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, emphasizes the cultivation of skills necessary for the future workforce in agriculture, with multiple deadlines for submissions.

The NRF Foundation provides access to the education and opportunities needed for successful retail careers, helping people build better lives and stronger communities.

Retail Training Initiative

Building Career Pathways Through Retail Training

The NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative expands access to industry‑recognized retail training and credentials for job seekers across the United States. Through partnerships with community‑based organizations, workforce development providers, and educational institutions, the fund equips individuals with the skills, confidence, and credentials needed to secure meaningful employment and advance in retail and related industries.

Retail is the nation’s largest private‑sector employer and offers accessible entry points, transferable skills, and clear pathways for career growth. By investing in training that aligns with employer needs, the NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative helps individuals overcome barriers to employment while strengthening the talent pipeline for the retail industry and beyond.

Organizations selected to participate in the NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative receive support designed to help them deliver high‑quality, employer‑aligned training programs, including:

• Access to the NRF Foundation RISE Up training and credentialing program
• Capacity awards to support program implementation and delivery
• Tools and resources to help participants earn industry‑recognized credentials

Together, these resources help organizations expand their impact and better support job seekers on their path to employment and career growth.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Robert and Judy Dreiling Scholarship

This scholarship offered to northern Nevada residents who are high school graduates or who have earned a high school equivalency certificate and adults seeking education to attain better employment.

The ideal candidates will be enrolled in an Associate's Degree track or certificate program at the school of their choice; the degree track or certificate program should result in a good lead to a good job. 

The scholarship will pay up to $5,000 for an Associate’s Degree or certificate program at private trade schools or community colleges for one or more candidates. You will be asked to write brief essays discussing: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your certificate program, and how your education will impact your life and your family.

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation

Mission: In partnership with our community, we ignite positive change and create a legacy of impact.

Scholarships

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation annually awards more than $2 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education, job training and certification. The Foundation hosts several different scholarship opportunities throughout the year. 

Workforce Training

Open to adult residents of Chautauqua County enrolled in a certification program outside of higher educational degree. Examples include phlebotomist, LPN, CNA, EMT, Radiologic Technologist, Automotive Technician, CDL, HVAC, Welding, Machining etc.

The Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation offers Single Program Grants to support impactful programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. These grants, ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, prioritize initiatives that enhance independence and service delivery. Eligible organizations must be US 501(c)(3) non-profits, and unsolicited proposals are not accepted. The foundation emphasizes community-based solutions and invites qualified applicants to submit a Letter of Inquiry followed by a full proposal.

Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation

The Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals who are blind or visually impaired by fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Its mission is to support programs that help people with vision loss lead independent, productive lives, while its vision is an accessible and inclusive world where individuals have the tools, resources, and opportunities to fully participate in society.

The Foundation’s funding priorities focus on supporting nonprofit organizations and initiatives that provide education, training, and rehabilitation services, assistive technology innovations, vision care and access to aids, and capacity building for professionals serving the visually impaired community. It also invests in programs that enhance employment opportunities, promote independence, and improve service delivery systems for people with vision loss, emphasizing practical, community-based solutions and long-term impact.

Small Discretionary Grants

The Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation (RDPFS) Track #3 Small Discretionary Grants provide flexible, year-round funding for smaller-scale initiatives that support individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Grant requests are accepted on a rolling basis and awarded at the discretion of the Executive Director. Awards are made until available funds are exhausted, allowing the Foundation to respond to timely or emerging needs.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The Rare Impact Fund, founded by Selena Gomez, is dedicated to transforming mental health support for young people. With a commitment to mobilizing $100 million, the fund aims to enhance access to mental health services and promote a stigma-free community. Through public Requests for Proposals, the initiative seeks to strengthen the nonclinical youth mental health workforce, ensuring effective support systems that reflect the diverse backgrounds of youth. This innovative approach fosters lasting change in mental health care.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Recent Retirees

Retirees of Regions and its affiliated companies are eligible for the Matching Gift Program for up to 5 years after retirement (the gift date must be within the first 5 years of retirement). Regions will match donations of $25 or more, up to a total of $1,000 per year per retiree.

The Regions Community Affairs team will contact the organization on your behalf to verify the gift and review eligibility.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations.