Best Jefferson County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

Jefferson County, Wisconsin students pursuing higher education can access funding through the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region’s Quest for Truth Scholarship, which supports academic scholarship and college persistence. One non-renewable US $1,000 award helps financially needy students attend a University of Wisconsin institution, with the option to re-apply in future years.

The Sara Ruth Krueger Memorial Scholarship offers a one-time award of $600 for students attending a 2-year or 4-year UW institution. This scholarship is non-renewable and is intended to assist with the cost of attendance for the fall semester. To maintain eligibility, students must enroll as full-time students. The funding is provided by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, a private organization dedicated to supporting local education.

Heart of Canal Street, established in 1994 by Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, focuses on enhancing the lives of children in southeastern Wisconsin. The initiative collaborates with local charities to provide essential services, promote safety, and foster an appreciation for the arts. In 2024, the program will award over $500,000 to 30 deserving children's charities, ensuring a brighter future for youth in the community.

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino is committed to community support through philanthropy, providing jobs and financial assistance. Their Heart of Canal Street program has donated over $13.6 million since 1994, helping local children. They recycle used playing cards for nonprofit organizations and donate auction items for fundraising events within a 125-mile radius. However, they do not support K-12 schools or for-profit entities, ensuring their contributions are directed to those in need.

The Valero Energy Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in communities where Valero operates. With a focus on basic needs, health care, education, and civic initiatives, the foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. In 2019, it provided approximately $40 million to support disadvantaged children and families, emphasizing a commitment to corporate citizenship and community well-being.

The Van Wyk Family Scholarship, established in 1993 by Tom and Linda Van Wyk, awards a $2000 scholarship to a student pursuing a business-related major at the UWO-Fox Cities campus. To maintain eligibility, recipients must enroll in at least 9 credits per semester, achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50, and continue majoring in a business field. This scholarship aims to support students in their educational endeavors.

The Verne Imhoff Scholarship, established in 2006, honors LaVerne J. Imhoff, a pivotal figure at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley. This $2,000 non-renewable scholarship supports students pursuing post-secondary education, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 to retain eligibility. The scholarship reflects the legacy of Dr. Imhoff, who significantly contributed to the university's development before his passing in 1997.

The Veldor Kopitzke Scholarship, established in 2004, supports students pursuing degrees in Business or Economics at UW institutions. Named after a dedicated community member and Professor Emeritus of Economics, this scholarship awards $800, non-renewable, for the fall semester. To maintain eligibility, students must register as full-time students in their chosen fields. This scholarship honors Professor Kopitzke's commitment to education and community service.

The Alliant Energy Foundation offers community grants to support local organizations within its service areas. With a focus on strategic areas such as hunger, housing, workforce readiness, environmental stewardship, and community safety, the foundation has invested over $76 million since 1998. Applications are accepted year-round, and funding is available for specific programs aimed at enhancing community well-being and innovation. Organizations may receive one grant per year, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to diverse community support.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

Public, private, and charter schools starting PLTW computer science programs in Jefferson County, Wisconsin can apply for US $20,000 to cover PLTW fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and core training costs. Project Lead The Way and the John Deere Foundation prioritize schools near John Deere facilities where at least 50% of students receive free or reduced lunch.

The William Guither Science Scholarship, established in 1981 and named in honor of Emeritus Professor William Guither, offers a $2,500 award to full-time students majoring in a science-related field at a UW institution. The scholarship provides $1,250 for each of the fall and spring semesters. To maintain eligibility, students must uphold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. This scholarship supports future scientists and acknowledges academic excellence in the physical sciences.

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 We Energies Foundation Grants support community development, health services, arts, education, and environmental initiatives. They prioritize projects from qualified 501(c)(3) organizations located within their service areas, aiming to foster relationships that yield lasting community benefits. Funding is restricted to one grant per organization per year, with a preference for supporting specific projects rather than general operating expenses. Overall, they encourage innovative approaches to enhance community well-being and cultural enrichment.

Public, private, and charter schools in Jefferson County, Wisconsin can apply for Project Lead The Way’s PLTW Computer Science Program Expansion grants; awards US $10,000 to grow existing PLTW computer science offerings. Funding may cover participation fees, required computers, equipment and supplies, and PLTW Core Training with related travel, room, and board for 2027–2028.

The Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in south-central and southeastern Wisconsin that promote strong families and healthy children. Each August, eligible organizations can apply for funding to help empower youth to achieve their dreams. This initiative not only strengthens community ties but also fosters a healthier future for generations to come, with award notifications sent out in November.

The Minnesota Twins Community Fund, established in 1991, has significantly impacted youth sports in Twins Territory by providing over $24 million in support. Through grants and donations, they empower young athletes, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and personal growth. The fund focuses on 501c3 nonprofits in their region, ensuring that initiatives foster both athletic skills and character development. With strict guidelines for donations, the Twins continue to enhance community engagement and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Public, private, and charter middle schools expanding an existing PLTW Gateway STEM program in Jefferson County, Wisconsin can apply for Project Lead The Way grants of US $10,000. Funds may cover PLTW participation fees, required technology, equipment and supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs for the 2027–2028 academic year, serving primarily low-income students.

Public, private, and charter schools in Jefferson County, Wisconsin can use this grant to expand PLTW Launch STEM programs, including new modules, more student access, and teacher training. Project Lead The Way and the John Deere Foundation provide about US $5,000 for participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs.

Students pursuing career or college preparation in Jefferson County, Wisconsin can receive academic scholarship support for study at 2-year or 4-year UW institutions. With a mission to support education, Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region offers four non-renewable awards of US $500 each for the fall semester, aiding local residents continuing their studies.

Students from Jefferson County, Wisconsin and other eligible Wisconsin counties pursuing full-time study at a four-year UW institution can apply for the Lynn and Roger Van Vreede Scholarship from Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region. This academic scholarship supports college preparation and degree completion for qualifying undergraduates who maintain at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Farmers market vendors in Jefferson County, Wisconsin seeking support for education, marketing, or technology upgrades can apply for Compeer Financial’s Farmers Market Grant Program, with awards up to US $500. Grants from Compeer Financial help eligible clients fund items like branding, websites, mobile payment tools, scales, tents, tables, coolers, and signage.

Compeer Financial's Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program aims to enhance collaboration among rural fire, rescue, and ambulance departments by providing funding for specialized equipment. Grants of up to $10,000 support projects that improve emergency response capabilities, encouraging teamwork among departments serving adjacent jurisdictions. Eligible applicants must operate within Compeer's 144-county territory and demonstrate a clear plan for equipment use. This initiative underscores the importance of community cooperation in ensuring effective emergency services in rural areas.

The Watertown Area Community Foundation has been a vital partner in community development since 1979. By connecting donors with local causes, the Foundation supports programs that address pressing needs in the Watertown area. Grants are available for start-up costs, equipment acquisition, and capital improvements, exclusively for local projects. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration with nonprofits and community leaders, ensuring that funding aligns with the community's future needs and aspirations.

The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

Engineering students at UW institutions from Jefferson County, Wisconsin and other eligible counties can receive academic scholarship support to continue their studies. With a mission to assist education, Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region provides four non-renewable $2,500 awards for upcoming sophomores, juniors, or seniors maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA.