Best Grants for Education Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The A. O. Smith Foundation, established in 1955, provides grants to support charitable, educational, and human services organizations primarily in communities where A. O. Smith Corporation operates. With a mission focused on enhancing community well-being, the Foundation promotes education, arts, culture, and health initiatives. It encourages employees to engage in volunteerism, fostering a culture of community involvement. Notably, the Foundation does not fund politically active organizations or those primarily aiming to influence legislation.

The Auto Club Group Foundation focuses on creating a positive impact through grants that enhance traffic safety, driver education, and financial literacy across 14 U.S. states and two territories. With a mission rooted in community service, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations and government entities that align with its goals. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, addressing crucial areas such as traffic safety initiatives, financial literacy for K-12 students, and equitable access to driver education programs.

The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, led by The Minneapolis Foundation, supports community-based nonprofits in the Great Lakes region. With a focus on underserved communities, grants will total $40 million over three years, aiming to enhance environmental health, education, and resilience. The program prioritizes applications from federally recognized tribes and organizations with limited budgets, fostering inclusive community engagement and sustainable development. Eligible projects include environmental assessments, public health initiatives, and job training.

The McKnight Foundation's Midwest Climate and Energy Grant focuses on funding initiatives that address the climate crisis while promoting equity in the Midwest. The foundation supports projects that transform energy systems, decarbonize transportation and buildings, and enhance community resilience. It aims to engage diverse populations and foster innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance sustainable practices. Eligible organizations include nonprofits, governmental entities, and those in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, with an emphasis on collaborative, impactful projects.

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 Fred C. & Katherine B. Andersen Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the St. Croix Valley of Minnesota and Wisconsin. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with priorities in healthcare, education, housing, human services, civic initiatives, and environmental education. While capital requests may be considered, the foundation primarily funds operational and programmatic needs. Organizations outside the geographic area may be considered if they align with the foundation's funding priorities.

The Bernick's Beverages and Vending Fund Grants aim to support organizations that align with the Bernick family's values, offering up to $150,000 in funding for 8-10 eligible groups. Focus areas include youth education and fitness initiatives, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $40,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities within Bernick's operational regions. The foundation seeks innovative programs that foster community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles.

The GMAR Youth Foundation Grant, managed by the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS®, aims to enhance the welfare of children and young people up to 25 years old. Established in 1951, this foundation focuses on supporting educational, social, and artistic initiatives in the Metro Milwaukee Area. Nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate a significant impact on local youth development. Grants are awarded for one-year periods.

The Joyce Foundation's Education & Economic Mobility Grants aim to close income and race disparities in college and career success. The foundation prioritizes equitable access to high-quality education, supporting policies for effective educators, high school graduation, and affordable college credentials. Focused on racial equity and economic mobility, it addresses the needs of historically underserved young people in the Great Lakes region and invests in research, policy development, and advocacy to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Wisconsin Public Service Foundation Grant supports local communities through charitable contributions, focusing on areas such as arts, education, and human services. Funded by shareholders, not utility customers, the foundation awards nearly $1.4 million annually to nonprofit organizations that enhance community quality of life. Eligible projects must align with specific funding areas and be located within the service area. The foundation encourages innovative projects that foster community engagement and development.

The Wisconsin Public Service Foundation offers Local Community Grants to support initiatives that enhance community development, health, arts, education, and the environment. Nonprofit organizations in the service areas are eligible for funding. The foundation emphasizes partnerships that promote educational opportunities and community improvement. With a history of providing financial support since 1964, the foundation encourages projects that engage local residents and foster collaboration among diverse groups. Preference is given to specific programs or projects that align with their mission.

The Menasha Corporation Foundation, established in 1953, supports nonprofit organizations across North America, focusing on community betterment, education, environmental sustainability, and health initiatives. Grants are awarded to projects that enhance the lives of individuals and strengthen communities, particularly in areas where Menasha Corporation operates. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and prioritize non-public funding. The foundation also encourages involvement from Menasha Corporation employees in supported projects.

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

Bader Philanthropies offers the Alzheimer's & Healthy Aging Grant to support nonprofits and government entities in Wisconsin. The grant aims to enhance services for older adults, including support for Alzheimer's patients, critical needs, and educational opportunities. With a focus on aging in place and technology use, this initiative fosters community engagement and caregiver support. Preliminary applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, ensuring timely responses for potential funding.

The Jewelers Mutual Impact Fund Grant aims to empower youth, advance technology, and foster community progression within the jewelry industry. Established in 1913 by jewelers, the fund supports nonprofit organizations that inspire the next generation through arts education, enhance the industry with technological innovations, and drive positive community development. Focused primarily on areas where employees reside, it also considers broader giving opportunities, ensuring a lasting impact on lives and communities.

Impact100 Greater Milwaukee is a women's organization dedicated to awarding transformative grants that significantly enhance the community. It encourages nonprofits to innovate and address pressing needs in the Greater Milwaukee area by presenting creative proposals. Grants focus on various areas, including arts, education, health, and environmental revitalization. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including being a recognized 501(c)(3) and demonstrating measurable outcomes. This initiative aims to drive impactful change and foster collaboration among nonprofits.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

The Old National Bank Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations for community impact initiatives across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Focused on four key areas—Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Financial Empowerment—the foundation prioritizes programs that support underrepresented communities. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation’s funding priorities to qualify for grants, which can be applied for every two years.

The Byron L. Walter Family Trust Grant supports charitable, religious, and educational institutions within Brown County, Wisconsin. This private foundation, administered by JPMorgan, exclusively funds nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. It does not accept applications from individuals. The program areas include education, religion, and scientific initiatives, making it a vital resource for community development.

The Nancy Buck Ransom Foundation Grants aim to empower young people by providing substantial annual funding to Crivitz Youth, Inc. and supporting organizations focused on education, health, and enrichment for children and youth in Monterey County. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits and public agencies serving local youth, with an emphasis on completing previous grants before reapplying. The foundation does not fund K-12 schools, one-time events, or individuals.

The Burmester Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable organizations primarily in Wisconsin, with a focus on various program areas including animal welfare, arts and culture, civic activities, and education. Funded by a private foundation, it specifically supports nonprofits recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Individual applications are not accepted, ensuring that grants are directed towards established charitable entities.

The Herzfeld Foundation's Arts Awareness Grant aims to enhance awareness of visual and performing arts in metro Milwaukee. Grants, up to $100,000, support strategies that expand or innovate coverage of the arts through various media. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations focused on sustaining journalistic endeavors that address challenges faced by artists. The foundation prioritizes collaborative efforts and innovative reporting, continuing Richard and Ethel Herzfeld's legacy of enriching the cultural landscape of the greater Milwaukee area.

The Cudahy Fund offers general community grants focusing on social services, health, education, environment, and arts for under-resourced populations in Metropolitan Chicago and Wisconsin. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The fund aims to support initiatives that enhance community well-being, providing safety nets for marginalized groups and promoting access to quality education and cultural experiences. This fund does not support individual grants or projects outside its geographic focus.

The Schreiber Foods Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations addressing food insecurity and basic needs in Wisconsin. Open year-round, it encourages nonprofits in Brown, Calumet, and surrounding counties to apply for funding, which typically ranges from $1,000 to $100,000. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that enhance community quality of life, promote self-sufficiency, and foster partnerships. Notably, it does not fund religious activities, individuals, or debt retirement, ensuring a focus on impactful community projects.

The Wispact Foundation Grant, established in 2021, aims to improve the lives of persons with disabilities in Wisconsin. Managed by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, it provides grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing critical areas such as housing, assistive devices, and inclusive education. The foundation prioritizes proposals that enhance living conditions and accessibility, while excluding capital campaigns and retroactive funding. This initiative fosters community impact and supports organizations dedicated to disability services.

The Best Life Community Awards, funded by Altra Foundation Inc, invites nominations for nonprofit organizations that have made a significant impact in their communities. Altra members can nominate eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits they support with their time, talents, or financial contributions. The selected nonprofit will receive a $10,000 grant, aimed at fostering initiatives in education, health, and community services across specific counties in the U.S. Nominate today to help recognize outstanding contributions!

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.