Best Waukesha County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The Spring - Health Care Service Grant Cycle, administered by the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Catholic Community Foundation, aims to support organizations providing essential health care services in the Milwaukee area, particularly in regions previously served by St. Anthony Hospital. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to philanthropy in Southeastern Wisconsin, focusing on health care for the underserved and fostering community well-being.

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.

The Pentair Foundation, a corporate philanthropy initiative, focuses on creating sustainable communities through water solutions and STEM education. With over $80 million in contributions since 1998, the foundation emphasizes ecological resilience, water quality improvement, and youth engagement in science and technology. They prioritize grantmaking in specific U.S. states and international regions, fostering vibrant communities and encouraging employee volunteerism. Initiatives are invitation-only, ensuring a targeted approach to impactful philanthropy.

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.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

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 Kott Memorial Charitable Trust Grants provide essential funding to charitable organizations that enhance the lives of seniors through education, health services, and community engagement. Dedicated to supporting gerontology, these grants aim to improve the quality of life for older adults by funding innovative programs, internships, and professional training. By focusing on the needs of seniors, the Trust plays a vital role in fostering a supportive environment for this demographic, ensuring they receive the care and services they deserve.

Nonprofit organizations focused on building strong families and healthy kids in south-central and southeastern Wisconsin may be eligible for this annual grant program. Focused on children’s health, youth services, and family support, the Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation invites Waukesha County, Wisconsin nonprofits to apply each August, with award notifications in November.

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.

The GMF Nonprofit Management Fund Grant supports capacity-building initiatives for small to medium-sized nonprofits in Milwaukee and surrounding counties. Grants of $1,000 to $10,000 aim to enhance governance, management, and organizational effectiveness. Eligible organizations must have been established for at least two years and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The fund prioritizes projects that strengthen board leadership, financial management, and strategic planning, helping nonprofits achieve their missions more effectively.

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.

The Elm Grove Junior Guild Grants support local non-profits focused on the education, wellness, and protection of women and children. With 75% of funds raised allocated to 501(c)(3) organizations in Waukesha and Milwaukee counties, and 25% dedicated to projects in Elm Grove, the guild plays a vital role in community support. Typical grants range from $500 to $10,000, empowering initiatives that benefit families in need.

Nonprofit organizations hosting community events in Waukesha County, Wisconsin can seek sponsorship funding for one-time events, fundraisers, galas, and similar activities. Old National Bank provides these sponsorships to support initiatives serving underrepresented groups and low-to-moderate income communities, with priority for programs in areas like economic development, workforce development, affordable housing, small business services, and financial education.

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.

Established 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Waukesha County, Wisconsin can seek $100,000 from Impact 100 Greater Milwaukee for capital projects or new or expanded programs with measurable outcomes. Focus areas include arts and culture, education, environment and revitalization, health and wellness, and family services, with funds to be spent within 24 months.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

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.

Nonprofit organizations in Waukesha County, Wisconsin can seek support for programs that enhance quality of life, including arts, education, natural resource preservation, healthy living, civic engagement, and human services. Woman's Club of Pewaukee provides annual funding to multiple local groups working to help residents in need and strengthen the community.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting education, women and children, community development, or veterans initiatives in Waukesha County, Wisconsin and nearby counties may be eligible for charitable giving and sponsorships. WaterStone Bank supports local programs within its community footprint that provide sponsor recognition and align with at least one of its core giving categories.

Grants help Waukesha County, Wisconsin nonprofits serving children and young people up to age 25 with education, social services, arts, and youth development programs. 501(c)(3) organizations in the Metro Milwaukee area, including Waukesha County, can apply to the Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors Youth Foundation for one-year project support that advances youths’ physical and intellectual development and character formation.

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.

Rural volunteer fire, rescue, or ambulance departments collaborating across adjacent jurisdictions in Waukesha County, Wisconsin can seek funding for specialized emergency response equipment, with awards up to US $7,500. Compeer Financial supports regional first responder partnerships to equip rural departments with tools like compression systems, fit testing machines, and hydraulic extrication or oxygen refill equipment.

The Oconomowoc Area Foundation, established in 2002, supports local charitable initiatives within the Oconomowoc Area School District. It prioritizes programs for children and youth, elderly support, environmental preservation, and community enrichment through arts and culture. Eligible organizations include nonprofits, schools, and municipal agencies providing services to local residents. The foundation aims to foster community well-being and sustainable development by funding impactful projects that enhance educational outcomes and support those in need.

Waukesha County 501(c)(3) nonprofits doing year-round civic engagement and democracy-focused programs can access funding through Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s GOTV Open Grant. Awards of US $5,000 - US $20,000 support voter registration, education, mobilization, and broader civic participation activities delivered through clearly defined partnerships in the Milwaukee region, including Waukesha County.

High school seniors and college students in aviation-related fields from Waukesha County, Wisconsin and select nearby counties can receive a one-time US $2,500 scholarship for higher education costs. The Colleen Deininger Aviation Scholarship Fund, administered by Kenosha Community Foundation, supports students with a 3.0 GPA or higher attending accredited two- or four-year institutions.

The Stackner Family Foundation Grants support organizations providing essential services to individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities or chronic mental health diagnosis. Applicants must verify their tax-exempt status and focus on the Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties area. This funding opportunity is available once every 12 months, ensuring targeted and effective support for local initiatives that enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.

The Margaret Wiegand Trust Grant supports blind residents in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. This private foundation, managed by JPMorgan, exclusively funds 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Individuals are not eligible to apply for these grants. For more information and to find the application, please search for the grant name using the provided foundation finder link.