Best Disaster Preparedness and Relief Grants in Wisconsin

Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Community Investment Grants aim to enhance community welfare through strategic partnerships with 501(c)(3) non-profits and government entities. The focus areas include workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities, reflecting the company's commitment to making a measurable impact in regions where they operate. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based and recognized as non-profits. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its values and community needs, ensuring support for impactful projects.

Department of Administration

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department of Administration is the flagship agency of the State of Wisconsin. We help the Office of the Governor with the biennial state budget, provide centralized purchasing and financial management for state agencies, and work with the 11 federally recognized Native Nations in Wisconsin on gaming, coastal programs, and other key areas. Our mission is to provide effective and efficient services at the best value to government agencies and the public.

CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)

​Program Overview

The Community Development Block Grant -Emergency Assistance Program CDBG-EAP (PDF) is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Energy, Housing, and Community Resources (DEHCR) under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. CDBG-EAP funds are used to assist local units of government in addressing emergency housing, public facility, infrastructure, and business assistance needs that occur as a result of natural or manmade disasters.  

The CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program includes funding for: Public Facility/Infrastructure Assistance; Housing Rehabilitation Assistance; and Business Assistance.

Business Assistance

CDBG-EAP business assistance is available to eligible businesses that have been affected by a natural or manmade disaster. Funds may be awarded as a loan or a grant. To qualify, a business must demonstrate that:

• Damages are linked directly to a disaster event.
• They employ LMI individuals.
• CDBG-EAP assistance will result in creating new or maintaining existing LMI jobs.
• 51% of the jobs created and/or maintained must be held by LMI individuals.

Eligible projects include:

• Building, water system, and sewer/septic repairs
• Equipment repair/replacement
• Provision of working capital
• Other expenses not covered by insurance claims

Department of Administration

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department of Administration is the flagship agency of the State of Wisconsin. We help the Office of the Governor with the biennial state budget, provide centralized purchasing and financial management for state agencies, and work with the 11 federally recognized Native Nations in Wisconsin on gaming, coastal programs, and other key areas. Our mission is to provide effective and efficient services at the best value to government agencies and the public.

CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)

​Program Overview

The Community Development Block Grant -Emergency Assistance Program CDBG-EAP (PDF) is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Energy, Housing, and Community Resources (DEHCR) under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. CDBG-EAP funds are used to assist local units of government in addressing emergency housing, public facility, infrastructure, and business assistance needs that occur as a result of natural or manmade disasters.  

The CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program includes funding for: Public Facility/Infrastructure Assistance; Housing Rehabilitation Assistance; and Business Assistance.

Housing Rehabilitation Assistance

CDBG-EAP housing assistance is available to eligible homeowners and tenants whose primary residence has been damaged by a natural or manmade disaster. Funds are awarded as a grant.

Individual homeowners or tenants must apply directly through their local municipal government. 

Eligible repair projects include:

• Foundations, façades, and roofs
• Electrical and HVAC repairs and replacements
• Water, sewer system, and water heater repairs

Department of Administration

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department of Administration is the flagship agency of the State of Wisconsin. We help the Office of the Governor with the biennial state budget, provide centralized purchasing and financial management for state agencies, and work with the 11 federally recognized Native Nations in Wisconsin on gaming, coastal programs, and other key areas. Our mission is to provide effective and efficient services at the best value to government agencies and the public.

CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)

​Program Overview

The Community Development Block Grant -Emergency Assistance Program CDBG-EAP (PDF) is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Energy, Housing, and Community Resources (DEHCR) under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. CDBG-EAP funds are used to assist local units of government in addressing emergency housing, public facility, infrastructure, and business assistance needs that occur as a result of natural or manmade disasters.  

The CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program includes funding for: Public Facility/Infrastructure Assistance; Housing Rehabilitation Assistance; and Business Assistance.

Public Facility/Infrastructure Assistance

CDBG-EAP Public Facility Assistance is available to communities where 51% or more of the population is low-to-moderate income (LMI) or where the activity will benefit LMI households. Funds are awarded as a grant, requiring a 25% local match for the total project expense. 

Eligible repair projects include:

• Curbs and gutters
• Water, sewer, and wastewater treatment facilities
• Streets and sidewalks
• Electrical systems

Wisconsin Emergency Management 

Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM), a division of the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, is committed to building a safe and resilient Wisconsin. WEM coordinates statewide resources, supports local governments and tribal nations, and strengthens preparedness for disasters and emergencies. From operating the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to delivering training, exercises, and planning support, WEM ensures communities are ready to respond and recover. Key priorities include disaster response coordination, hazard mitigation, recovery programs, and public safety training. Guided by its mission to protect lives and property, WEM partners with agencies across the state to enhance emergency capabilities and foster resilience.

Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program

The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program is an annual, nationally competitive grant program for state agencies, county governments, local governments and Tribal Nations to implement long-term, cost-effective mitigation actions that mitigate risk to infrastructure and community lifelines.

BRIC program priorities include:

• Mitigation measures that incentivize natural hazard risk reduction activities that mitigate current and future risk to public infrastructure
• Incorporate nature-based solutions
• Enhance climate resilience and adaptation
• Increase funding to applicants that facilitate the adoption and enforcement of the latest published editions of building codes.

 WEM works to fund as many grants as possible under its set-aside allocation for planning, capability & capacity (C&CB) grants, and traditional mitigation projects. All projects must pass a Benefit-Cost Analysis using FEMA’s software and undergo a review for environmental and historic preservation impacts.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

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 M3 Insurance Foundation Grant supports organizations focused on financial literacy, healthcare improvement, insurance career promotion, and safety enhancement. It aims to develop financial skills, improve medical services, educate about risk management, and assist communities affected by disasters. By providing financial contributions, the foundation seeks to make a significant impact in these vital areas, fostering growth and resilience within the communities they serve.

The Community Development Investment Grant in Wisconsin aims to enhance economic well-being through strategic investments in urban, small city, and rural redevelopment projects. This program supports initiatives that are shovel-ready and focus on revitalizing commercial corridors. Eligible applicants include municipalities and designated private developers, with funds available for activities like building renovation, historic preservation, and infrastructure improvements, fostering job creation and increased property values.

The Wisconsin Disaster Fund (WDF) is a state-funded reimbursement program that allows local governmental units – namely, counties, cities, townships, villages, and tribal units of government – to recoup costs incurred while responding to and recovering from disaster incidents. The state reimburses 70% of eligible costs after the local governmental unit submits a complete WDF application. The fund does not cover individuals, businesses, the agricultural sector, costs associated with snowstorms, damages covered by insurance, nor does it provide funds for mitigation activities. The fund does reimburse public disaster costs under three categories of work: Category A Debris Clearance, Category B Protective Measures, and Category C Road and Bridge Repair. The application process for WDF has two stages. The first is completed by the county/tribal emergency manager within 30 days and the second stage is completed by the applicant within EM Grants Pro (“Pro”) within 60 days of the end of the incident. The Applicant will then have 30 days to submit any additional required information or documentation.

The Municipal Flood Control Grant Program, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to assist local governments in managing flood risks. It provides funding for property acquisition, floodproofing, and flood control structure construction to enhance community resilience against flooding. This proactive approach addresses climate change impacts, promotes environmental sustainability, and aims to protect lives and property. Eligible projects focus on minimizing flood-related damages while maintaining natural watercourse functions.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.

The EDA FY25 Disaster Supplemental program provides critical funding to support communities recovering from severe economic distress caused by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. With no submission deadlines for Readiness and Implementation Paths, and a specific deadline for Industry Transformation applications, this initiative aims to enhance community resilience and improve economic trajectories through strategic projects that engage local stakeholders and private industries.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

About Henry L. Hillman Foundation

Henry L. Hillman Foundation inspires, invests in, and leverages great ideas to improve the quality of life in Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania.

Backup Power When Your Community Needs It

The Powered & Prepared Initiative seeks proposals from nonprofit and municipal organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania for backup power solutions that allow those organizations to offer essential services during emergencies without disruption.

Southwestern Pennsylvania is increasingly impacted by severe weather events that cause widespread power outages and disruptions. The Powered & Prepared Initiative, supported by Henry L. Hillman Foundation, seeks proposals from nonprofit and municipal organizations for backup power solutions that allow those organizations to offer essential services during emergencies without disruption.

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.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

Driving University Impact: Expanding the Public Exchange Network Grant

How the Public Exchange Network Works

No single university – even a large R1 – has enough faculty expertise available to meet the needs of every partner. The Public Exchange Network was designed to help universities work together seamlessly to build robust partnerships and generate more collective impact. Universities joining the network are independent but affiliated members, with full control over their own program and project portfolios. As a national network with local, on-the-ground capacity, Public Exchange Network members can also share approaches that work, scale solutions to common problems, and build cross-regional partnerships together. 

As an institutional partner in the Public Exchange Network, universities will build capacity to develop, test and implement solutions to the most urgent problems in their regions and beyond. Universities joining the Public Exchange Network get:

• The tools, templates and training they need to start right away;
• A shared brand they can plug into on day one;
• A network of faculty, past and potential partners and philanthropic relationships, benefitting everyone in the network. 

Public Exchange Network Expansion grants will cover 75-80% of the minimum estimated annual costs for two years to launch a new Public Exchange. To launch a Public Exchange, universities must have the following in place: (1) a staff executive director with experience launching and leading social impact partnerships, (2) a project seed fund, and (3) a modest operations budget. We also recommend some in-kind project management support from an existing university staff member. The grant includes a two-year Public Exchange Executive Director (ED) compensation subsidy of $300,000 to launch the Public Exchange on campus, and a 2-year license to use the Public Exchange brand. New Public Exchange Network members will also receive ongoing support and guidance from current Public Exchange leadership and staff at USC and WashU, including recruitment support and intensive training for hiring and onboarding an executive director, a sub-site on the Public Exchange website, incubation and project management support from current Public Exchange staff, and a suite of tools for developing and implementing Public Exchange projects.

The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

Screen Actors Guild American Federation

The SAG-AFTRA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering comprehensive professional development and educational resources as well as emergency financial and health assistance programs to SAG-AFTRA artists nationwide.

The Foundation values the essential contributions of performing artists to entertainment, media, the arts, and culture. In a rapidly changing industry and world, the Foundation is dedicated to providing SAG-AFTRA actors, voiceover artists, broadcasters, dancers, and other members with new and valuable tools to navigate industry shifts, along with training opportunities to hone and develop their craft.

In addition, the Foundation supports SAG-AFTRA artists throughout the various phases of a career in the arts, offering emergency assistance and scholarship programs to ensure no performer faces tough times alone.

The Foundation also encourages celebrated performers to give back through its children’s literacy program, Storyline Online, fostering a love of reading in millions of children worldwide.

Committed to education and community, the Foundation strives to create a supportive and innovative environment where performers can expand their skills to achieve their highest potential while staying grounded and knowing they have support in times of urgent need.

Disaster Relief Fund

Our Disaster Relief Fund is dedicated to addressing the most dire needs of SAG-AFTRA members impacted by government-declared natural disasters. 

BioMarin offers funding through its donation program focused on improving healthcare and patient advocacy, particularly for rare diseases. Organizations eligible for support include hospitals, accredited providers, and patient advocacy groups. BioMarin prioritizes innovative therapeutic solutions for rare genetic conditions. The company is dedicated to enhancing patient care and education, and it reviews funding requests year-round, although specific deadlines apply for year-end funding. This initiative reflects BioMarin's commitment to addressing unmet medical needs.

The Bertin Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) public charities that align with the foundation's mission of community strengthening and compassion. Grant requests are accepted annually from July 1 to August 31, focusing on program or project support rather than general endowment. The foundation values measurable outcomes and responsible stewardship, and gives preference to organizations with Gold or Platinum status on Candid.