Best Ozaukee County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Nestlé Purina is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of pets and the communities they serve. Through their event sponsorship program, they support 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. that focus on the welfare of cats and dogs. Eligible events must be located within 50 miles of their St. Louis headquarters, ensuring that their contributions directly benefit local communities. Purina's commitment to pets and people strengthens the bond between them.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and some government agencies supporting Ozaukee County, Wisconsin can seek project, general operating, or capital funding for arts, aging, early childhood, environment, entrepreneurship, and health equity work. Greater Milwaukee Foundation supports these efforts with grants ranging from US $5,000 - US $100,000 for programs serving Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties.

Nonprofit organizations in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin can apply for Greater Cedarburg Foundation grants to support programs or capital projects that benefit the greater Cedarburg area. Funding may support efforts in cultural and historic preservation, arts and aesthetics, and educational, recreational, or community service opportunities for residents of all ages.

Mel’s Charities

Through our many events, random acts of kindness, outreach and advocacy efforts, we strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, empowering individuals and enriching the whole Ozaukee County community. We do this with a focus on individuals with disabilities, establishing memorials and community impact initiatives.

Getting involved with Mel’s Charities can be a personally fulfilling way to impact lives in our community. Whether you’re a Doer who volunteers, a Donor who supports our mission with events on our behalf, a Door Opener who introduces others to our team, a Dreamer with big ideas… or all four of them…you’re making a difference you can see every day.

Mel’s Charities Grant

At Mel’s Charities, our mission is having fun as we impact lives in Ozaukee County. Since 1999, we have awarded grants and other gifts to eligible individuals and organizations in our community.

Mel’s Charities only supports nonprofit organizations serving Ozaukee County and grant requests must fall within at least one of the following funding areas:

• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
  • Programs, services, equipment, or opportunities that support and positively impact individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Memorials
  • Projects, programs, scholarships, or community initiatives created in memory of an individual.
• Community Impact
  • Projects and programs that address a demonstrated need and create a meaningful, positive impact in Ozaukee County.

About Us

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation is Wisconsin’s largest community foundation and was among the first established in the world. Since 1915, we have been at the heart of the civic community, helping donors achieve the greatest philanthropic impact, elevating the work of changemakers across neighborhoods, and bringing people and organizations together to help our region thrive.  

West Bend Community Foundation - Early Childhood Education

West Bend civic leaders Cliff Nelson and R. Douglas Ziegler believed that people ought to give back to the community in which they live. In 1999, the two men put their words into action by launching the West Bend Community Foundation, a Greater Milwaukee Foundation supporting organization that is a permanent charitable endowment serving the greater West Bend area.

Area served

Greater West Bend area 

Grantmaking focus

The West Bend Community Foundation has a separate grant application to support the Early Childhood Education (ECE) sector. Nonprofits working to support high quality ECE facilities, expand the ECE workforce, advocate for increased ECE access, and/or work to promote healthy physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional development for children 0 – 8 years of age may apply for grants up to $5,000.

Grant amount

• Multi-year grants will be considered, but generally not for more than three years
• Organizations may only apply for one grant of any type per year
• Grants cover operating support, special projects or capital projects

Evaluation criteria

• Significance of the problem(s) addressed to the people of the greater West Bend area
• Capacity of the agency (governing body, staff, financing) to respond to the problem(s)
• Number of greater West Bend area residents expected to benefit
• Urgency of need for support 

501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least three years of operating experience can seek project funding for community development, economic opportunity, and related services in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin and nearby areas. Grants from Forest County Potawatomi Foundation support programs such as youth development, health and human services, environmental initiatives, arts and culture, and Native American and veterans services.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.

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.

Greater Milwaukee Foundation provides Ozaukee County, Wisconsin nonprofits with general operating support for work in arts and culture, aging and older adults, early childhood education, environment, healthy birth outcomes, and small business development. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and some government agencies may request up to US $50,000 per year, including multi-year funding, if they meet board diversity and service-area requirements.

Ozaukee County, Wisconsin 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least four unrelated board members can access funding through Greater Milwaukee Foundation for community-impact projects in arts and culture, aging, early childhood education, environment, entrepreneurship, and healthy birth outcomes. Eligible organizations serving Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Waukesha, or Washington Counties may request up to US $50,000 per year for up to three years.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and some government agencies supporting communities in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin can seek capital support for arts and culture, early childhood education facilities, aging and older adults, environment, and healthy birth outcomes projects. Grants from the Greater Milwaukee Foundation offer up to US $50,000 per year for up to three years, prioritizing racial equity and inclusive board leadership.

The DEW Foundation Grant supports tax-exempt charitable organizations globally, aiming to promote the common good through financial contributions and personal involvement. The foundation prioritizes charities where family members are actively involved and focuses on ministries, health, education, and community service. While it may fund its own projects, it typically does not exceed 10% of an organization's operating budget and avoids supporting politically affiliated causes or normal church operations. Innovative and effective organizations are especially welcome.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin that run technology access and digital literacy programs for families or seniors can seek US $2,500 - US $50,000 to expand broadband education efforts. Charter Communications’ Spectrum Digital Education Grants support existing programs in Spectrum markets that partner with low-income or multicultural communities and can report clear impact metrics.

The Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation offers event sponsorships aimed at enhancing local activities in Mequon and Thiensville. These sponsorships support one-time or recurring events by nonprofits or municipalities, providing promotional benefits for sponsors. Eligible applicants include organizations with a non-discrimination policy and those holding tax-exempt status, as well as recognized government entities and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round, promoting community engagement and brand awareness.

The Archdiocese of Milwaukee Catholic Community Foundation is offering the Fall Education, Lay Leadership, and Community Grant Cycle, aimed at supporting Catholic education and community initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that align with the Foundation's focus areas, including education, leadership development, and community-building. Eligible organizations must be listed in the Official Catholic Directory or have a mission consistent with the church. Note that multi-year grants are rarely funded.

Environmental nonprofits and related organizations working on Great Lakes conservation and climate resilience in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin can access funding through the Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation; awards are more than US $10,000. Grants support watershed and freshwater health, environmental justice, policy advocacy, and cultivating community leadership and next-generation Great Lakes leaders.

The Rewarding Responders Grant, offered by the We Energies Foundation, supports local public safety agencies with funding up to $2,000 per project. Eligible projects include equipment purchases and professional training that enhance safety initiatives within the communities served by the foundation. Grants must be utilized within two years, and projects should be special, one-time efforts. This initiative emphasizes the importance of safety and well-planned public safety responses.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified local government entities supporting education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, or environmental programs in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin can apply for Georgia-Pacific Foundation’s community grants. Eligible applicants must serve communities supported by a Georgia-Pacific facility and be located within 30 miles of that manufacturing community.

The F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. These grants, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support state-level management plans to combat aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and their designees, with funding awarded through a competitive selection process.

The Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation (MTCF) aims to enhance community quality of life by funding nonprofit initiatives with a lasting impact. Grants prioritize defined funding priorities, measurable outcomes, and projects benefiting seniors or children. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and government entities. MTCF avoids funding individuals, ongoing expenses, or projects outside its communities. Preference is given to projects that offer significant community benefits and long-term impact, enriching the lives of Mequon and Thiensville residents.

The Cousins Subs Make It Better Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on health & wellness, hunger, and youth education. Since its inception in 2013, the foundation has granted over $800,000 to eligible organizations that align with these key areas. Applications from 501(c)(3) entities are prioritized, with a one-year waiting period for previous grantees. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing community welfare and making a positive impact.

Ozaukee County, Wisconsin nonprofits and civic organizations can request donated auction items like restaurant gift cards and hotel stays to support local fundraising events. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino offers these in-kind donations within roughly 90 miles of its property; K–12 schools, for-profit entities, and events involving minors are not eligible.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) charities providing direct services to children in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin and nearby counties can seek funding to improve kids’ health, safety, welfare, and development. Grants from Potawatomi Hotel & Casino help children’s organizations support food security, safety, arts, mental health, disabilities, and early childhood programs through the Heart of Canal Street initiative.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.