Best Environmental Education Grants in Wisconsin

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 Laird Norton Family Foundation, based in Seattle, prioritizes grants that reflect family values in arts education, climate change, human services, and watershed stewardship. Their approach emphasizes equitable educational opportunities, carbon sequestration, support for youth at risk of homelessness, and long-term ecological health. They focus on organizations that address social justice and community needs, particularly in King County, WA, and the West Coast. Note: No unsolicited applications are accepted.

The Parkview Community Fund, established in 2024 by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, aims to enhance community life in the Parkview School District area. It serves local residents, donors, and businesses, facilitating charitable contributions that are tax-deductible. The Fund supports various initiatives, including education, health care, and community development, by awarding grants annually based on its earnings. This initiative strengthens local engagement and promotes sustainable development in Southern Wisconsin.

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.

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.

Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project

The Division of Care and Treatment Services is seeking applications for funding to provide statewide and Wisconsin-specific alcohol prevention and policy education, training, and technical assistance. This includes providing education and information on alcohol-related trends, gaps, and opportunities and providing guidance and implementation of evidence-based and environmental strategies and policies to prevent and reduce underage drinking, alcohol misuse, and binge drinking.

Program requirements

The intention of the Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project is to provide training, tools, and technical assistance to municipalities, law enforcement, public health, and community coalitions working to improve the alcohol environment and reduce alcohol-related problems. 

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 Needmor Fund for Social Justice aims to promote social justice by supporting community organizing efforts in the Midwest. With a focus on low- and moderate-income communities, BIPOC groups, and other marginalized populations, the fund provides grants for up to three years to organizations committed to long-term empowerment and advocacy. The initiative seeks to foster inclusive participation in democracy, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping policies affecting their lives.

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 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 Fund for Lake Michigan Grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the health of Lake Michigan through projects that yield both immediate and long-term benefits. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions focusing on water quality improvement. Grants range from $700,000 to $900,000 quarterly, with priorities on projects that directly impact water quality and promote sustainable practices. This grant fosters economic growth while ensuring the preservation of vital water resources.

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 Aquatic Invasive Species Control Research & Demonstration program, supported by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance water quality and protect ecosystems through collaborative initiatives. By providing cost-sharing funding for various activities, this program empowers eligible applicants, including local governments and educational institutions, to engage in effective water management practices. The initiative emphasizes sustainable stewardship of surface water resources, fostering partnerships to ensure long-term ecological health and community resilience in Wisconsin.

The WDNR Surface Water Grants support organizations in managing surface water through various stages, from planning to implementation. Eligible applicants, including lake associations and conservation organizations, can access funding for education, planning, and management projects aimed at improving water quality and combating invasive species. Key deadlines include May 1 for eligibility inquiries, September 15 for pre-applications, and November 15 for full proposals. These grants reflect the DNR's commitment to sustainable resource management in Wisconsin.

The Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, provides federal funding to support public water systems in small or disadvantaged communities. It focuses on addressing emerging contaminants such as PFAS and manganese, ensuring safe drinking water. Grants target Other-Than-Municipal and nonprofit water systems, including mobile home parks and schools, enhancing public health through system improvements and contamination mitigation.

The Mid Wisconsin Grants, established under the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, provide funding for nonprofit projects in communities once served by Mid Wisconsin Bank. The grants support initiatives in health, education, and community development. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt entities based in specific Wisconsin locations. Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss their project ideas with grant officers before submission. Note that political or strictly religious purposes are not funded, and prior recipients are ineligible for two years.

The Pablo Foundation Grant aims to foster a vibrant and sustainable community in Eau Claire by funding innovative projects over $10,000 that align with its vision and commitments to equity, diversity, and environmental sustainability. Established in 2017, the foundation has expanded its support beyond the arts to include housing, health, and education, focusing on initiatives that address specific community needs and benefit diverse populations.

The Dickinson Area Community Foundation offers grants through various funds aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in Dickinson County and nearby areas. These funds target veterans, community health, civic improvements, and arts, ensuring a wide range of support for local initiatives. Organizations can apply for funding to enhance resources, health programs, and educational services, fostering community development and welfare across Michigan and Wisconsin.

Alliant Energy’s Community Tree Planting Program, part of the One Million Trees Initiative, is a recognized program aimed at enhancing community and environmental health. Collaborating with Trees Forever, this initiative supports communities in Iowa and Wisconsin to plant trees, fostering energy efficiency and stewardship. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for purchasing local landscape-sized trees. The program helps ensure a greener future by engaging citizens in tree planting efforts, thereby improving local ecosystems and community vitality.

The Prisoner Reintegration Program, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, aims to assist individuals transitioning from incarceration in Milwaukee County. This initiative addresses critical behavioral, social, and economic challenges faced by participants, including mental health issues, substance use, and unemployment. Funding will support qualified staff who provide personalized assistance, ensuring collaboration with correctional facilities for effective reentry. The program promotes community adjustment and reduces recidivism through comprehensive support and resource connections.

The Four Cedars Environmental Fund, supported by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, offers financial assistance for programs that protect and educate about the unique natural resources of the western Lake Superior watershed. Eligible applicants include charitable organizations and those serving specific counties in Wisconsin and Minnesota. The fund aims to enrich local environmental initiatives through capital requests, start-up costs, and technical support, fostering sustainable practices within the community.

The Global Awareness Fund, managed by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, supports initiatives that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultures. Focused on issues like peace, justice, and environmental sustainability, the Fund backs projects such as educational programs, media productions, and community dialogues. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, governmental entities, and tribal governments serving specific regions in Wisconsin and Minnesota. This initiative aims to enhance civil society and promote global citizenship.

The Red Cliff/Miskwaabikaang Fund Grant supports programs that uphold the Ojibwe culture through arts, language, and health initiatives in Red Cliff, Wisconsin. This fund enhances the quality of life for the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa by funding nonprofit organizations that serve the community. Key funding priorities include cultural revitalization, health programs, artistic services, and environmental conservation efforts, encouraging collaborations to maximize impact.

The AmeriCorps State Competitive Program Grant in Wisconsin empowers organizations to engage AmeriCorps members in addressing critical community needs through service and volunteering. It focuses on enhancing community resilience by funding direct service and capacity-building activities. Priority is given to organizations serving marginalized populations and those focused on youth mental health, veterans' support, environmental stewardship, and reducing community polarization. This initiative fosters civic engagement and strengthens local communities across Wisconsin.

The Milton Community Fund Grant, established in 1996, supports charitable initiatives in the Milton area through annual grants funded by community donations. It aims to enhance historical preservation, environmental projects, education, healthcare, youth programs, and support for the elderly. Grants are awarded to non-profits, local schools, and government agencies, emphasizing collaborative efforts to improve community welfare. Managed by local volunteers, the fund adapts to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

Mission

The Biodiversity Fund supports efforts to maintain and strengthen biodiversity in the Duluth-Superior region through preservation and restoration of habitat, help for particular species and ecosystems, planning for changing conditions, research and education. The purpose is to consider now the value to future generations of the species and ecosystem diversity that will remain when/if human population stabilizes.

Biodiversity Fund

The Biodiversity Fund supports projects that preserve and restore habitats, assist vulnerable species and ecosystems, plan for environmental change, and promote research and education in the Duluth-Superior region.

The fund aims to protect the region's biodiversity through conservation, preservation, and restoration of natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

Biodiversity Fund- Large & Multi-Year Grants

The Fund may also support larger initiatives of up to $50,000 per year for up to three years, for projects that require sustained investment to achieve meaningful, long-term impact. ‍

Multi-year requests should demonstrate:

• A clear long-term vision with defined milestones that allow progress to be assessed prior to subsequent years of funding each year
• How the work will scale, adapt, or deepen impact over time
• Strong partnerships, stewardship plans, or systems-level outcomes
• A plan for sustainability beyond the grant period

What We Mean by Biodiversity

‍Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity of genes, species, and ecosystems and the complex relationships that sustain them. Biodiversity underpins ecosystem stability, climate resilience, and human well-being by providing essential services such as clean air and water, natural food systems, nature-derived medicines, and climate adaptation and regulation.

This grant recognizes that healthy natural ecosystems and sustainable native plant and animal communities are deeply interconnected — environmental degradation often exacerbates social inequities and instability of communities of habitats and ecosystems. Community-led solutions strengthen ecological outcomes.

Biodiversity Fund Priorities

Funded projects should demonstrate strength in several of the following areas. Not every project must address all principles, but competitive proposals will show clear alignment across multiple dimensions.

• Upstream & Preventative Focus
  • Projects address root causes rather than symptoms.
  • Prioritize prevention, restoration, and long-term solutions
  • Reduce risk and vulnerability for people, species, and ecosystems
  • Anticipate environmental and social change rather than reacting after harm occurs
• Collaboration & Community Voice
  • Projects are grounded in authentic partnership.
  • Build cross-sector collaboration (e.g., nonprofits, Tribal Nations, schools, governments, researchers, community groups)
  • Center the expertise and leadership of people with lived experience, including Indigenous knowledge and local ecological expertise
  • Share power in design, decision-making, and implementation
• Equity-Centered Impact
  • Projects advance equity for both people and place.
  • Prioritize historically marginalized communities and/or vulnerable species and ecosystems
  • Focus resources, decision-making power, or stewardship closer to impacted communities
  • Recognize how environmental harm and social inequity intersect
• Systems, Policy & Practice Change
  • Projects have transferability and relevance beyond a single site or program.
  • Improve institutional practices, policies, land-use decisions, or resource flows
  • Strengthen community-level systems related to housing, food security, climate adaptation, education, or conservation
  • Demonstrate potential for replication, scaling, or broader adoption
• Sustainability & Capacity Building
  • Projects plan for impact that lasts beyond the grant period.
  • Strengthen organizational, community, or ecosystem capacity
  • Build skills, infrastructure, stewardship, or long-term management plans
  • Promote ongoing care, monitoring, or adaptive management of natural systems
• Evidence of Change & Learning
  • Projects contribute to shared learning and understanding.
  • Use data, research, community knowledge, or storytelling to demonstrate impact
  • Measure ecological, social, or systems-level outcomes
  • Share lessons learned to inform future equity-, resilience-, and biodiversity-focused work

The Biodiversity Fund Grant, offered by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, aims to enhance biodiversity in the Duluth-Superior region. It supports projects focused on habitat restoration, species protection, and addressing climate change impacts. Eligible applicants include charitable organizations that serve specific counties in Wisconsin and Minnesota. This initiative seeks to promote ecological health and engage local communities in conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of vital ecosystems for future generations.

The Green Bay Packers Foundation, established in 1986, supports Wisconsin charities that promote family values, athletics, and welfare. Eligible organizations can apply for grants addressing specific focus areas, including animal welfare and education, during the 2026-2029 cycle. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities with a valid IRS Tax ID, ensuring they meet community needs effectively. The Foundation prioritizes impactful projects that align with its mission of enhancing community well-being and preventing cruelty to animals.