Search Through Grants for Capital Funding in Wisconsin in the U.S.

We care about the communities in which we live and work. Amcor Cares (formerly the Bemis Company Foundation) was founded as our principal tool in the United States to serve our Amcor Flexibles communities. From volunteer work to monetary donations and community support, Amcor Cares donates several million per year to charitable organizations.

Community Support Grants

Encourage

• Fighting Hunger & Homelessness
• Supporting Disaster Relief

Empower

• Expanding STEM Education
• Building Life Skills
• Improving Health & Wellness

Elevate

• Promoting Arts & Culture
• Funding Amcor Scholarships

Types of support:

• Non-profit Organization Programs
• Non-profit Organization Operating Support
• Capital Campaigns
• STEM Programs

Hendricks Family Foundation - Capital Grant

In line with the Foundation’s mission, vision and values, we provide grant support to organizations to achieve local, measurable impact in these key priority areas:

• Career and Workforce Development
• Education
• Public Safety
• Strong and Vibrant Community
• Veteran & Veteran Families

A grant greater than $100,000 for a capital or facility project.

The Jeffris Family Foundation invites applications for grants from the Jeffris Heartland Fund, to support the development of important historic preservation projects in the states of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.The decision to pursue a grant from the Jeffris Heartland Fund must be made in consultation with a Director of the Foundation to discuss your project and request a Jeffris Heartland Fund application form.Directors can also assist grant-seekers with the application process, provide related technical assistance to guide wise and constructive use of the grant funding, and administer grants once awarded. Applications, once invited, are accepted at any time.  Award notices are issued within approximately 30 days of receipt of the application.Grants will be made in the range of $5,000 to $50,000 to cover 50% the cost of an Historic Structure Report, and must be matched dollar-for-dollar with cash from sources unrelated to the Jeffris Family.

Historic Significance of the Site

• Priority will be given to sites of documented national and then state historic significance. Sites with local significance only will not be eligible for funding.
• Priority will be given to sites associated with prominent figures of national, regional, or statewide importance, or with events of national, regional, or statewide significance.
• Priority will be given to sites with significant architectural merit, including association with designers of national, regional, or statewide importance.
• Priority will be given to sites with strong elements of the decorative arts.
• Priority will be given to projects involving historic resources that are extremely rare and/or unique.
• Priority will be given to projects with a high degree of historic integrity, and to work relating to the restoration of original elements. While work to accommodate contemporary usage is acceptable, all work on the property must conform to The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

Proposed Project and Plan

• Priority will be given to applicants that can best demonstrate that a Historic Structure Report or other detailed planning study for which funding is being requested is critical to the accurate and appropriate restoration of the property.
• Priority will be given to applicants that can best demonstrate their intended use will be financially viable and operationally sustainable over time.
• Priority will be given to applicants that can assure that the project will fully comply with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties through review and oversight by a local historic preservation commission, state historic preservation office, or preservation consultants thoroughly familiar and experienced with those standards.

 Organizational Excellence

• Priority will be given to applicants who can demonstrate a pattern of programming and services connected to the site and their stated mission (e.g. educational programs, events, hospitality).
• Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate a broad base of membership and community support.
• Priority will be given to applicants with demonstrated success in past capital fundraising efforts.

Our Approach

The Midwest Climate & Energy program uses its philanthropic funding to support efforts that build power through partnership, aligning climate and equity goals to advance bold action on the climate crisis.

Our program takes a systems change lens, focusing on shifting the conditions that perpetuate the climate crisis, which include structural racism. We direct grantmaking toward work that shifts mental models, changes power dynamics, engages communities, and advances transformative policies, practices, and resource flows, in order to dramatically cut carbon pollution in the Midwest by 2030.

Our Strategies

Transform the Energy System

We aim to ensure that the Midwest equitably transitions to an energy grid capable of powering an increasingly electrified society – a grid that’s powered by clean energy sources, accessible and affordable to ratepayers, and flexible and resilient to accommodate more clean power and withstand disruptive events.

Our grantmaking through this strategy will:

• Engage the utility sector and related decision-making venues as a crucial lever for system transformation.
• Amplify stories of the clean energy transition and combat mis- and disinformation.
• Expand solutions that advance customer options for clean energy that is accessible, equitable, and affordable.
• Elevate voices that are representative of the rich diversity of the Midwest.

Decarbonize Transportation

We aim to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector in the Midwest through electrification and reducing driving (vehicle miles traveled, or “VMT”) by increasing the use of transit, biking, and other mobility options. We support the Midwest States leading in transportation infrastructure implementation that is equitable, and sustainable and ensures that everyone has access to clean, affordable, and accessible transportation mobility options.

Our grantmaking through this strategy will:

• Support increased public sector investment in transit, active transportation modes, and other shared mobility options.
• Support the equitable deployment and implementation of electrification infrastructure.
• Elevate the engagement of diverse Midwest communities to advance transportation planning that prioritizes climate and equity and repairs historical harms resulting from discriminatory policies.

Decarbonize Buildings

We aim to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the buildings sector in the Midwest, cutting energy usage, electrifying equipment and appliances, and resolving the energy insecurities and burdens of under-resourced households.

Our grantmaking through this strategy will:

• Engage with the utility sector and related decision-making venues as a crucial lever for building decarbonization.
• Raise the bar on building performance to incorporate increasingly electrified end-uses, promote health, safety, and comfort, and center the real needs of people.
• Bridge across sectors and break down silos to fundamentally shift the paradigm for how buildings are built.
• Scale innovation to advance real-world examples of carbon-free buildings in the Midwest.

Support Working Lands

We aim to partner with the stewards of working lands to advance solutions that cut greenhouse gas emissions (carbon, methane, and nitrous oxide), sequester carbon, and build soil resiliency in the face of increasing climate disruptions, while centering the leadership of farmers and rural communities’ prosperity.

Our Grantmaking through this strategy will:

• Promote the leadership of farmers and farmer-led organizations to advance climate solutions.
• Build partnerships with public and private sectors to seed and scale farming practices that reduce emissions and sequester carbon.
• Support organizing and advocacy infrastructure in the Midwest for an inclusive farming system with strong workers’ rights that honors Indigenous farming knowledge and has equitable opportunities for low-income, communities of color, and emerging farmers.

Strengthen Democratic Participation

We aim to increase statewide infrastructure and capacity, engage diverse people in advancing our shared prosperity, and create platforms for broader participation in movements to realize vibrant, equitable, and climate-resilient communities.

Our grantmaking through this strategy will:

• Bolster organizations, networks, and intermediaries working to engage and organize communities toward more powerful participation in civic life.
• Ensure our democratic institutions and policymaking arenas are accessible and equipped to meet the challenge of the climate moment. ​

WBD Opportunity Funds

Each year WBD invests in projects/activities/organizations with specific efforts aligned with our mission to Grow Businesses, Create Jobs and Build Communities. While the amount of investment varies depending on the success of the organization each year, WBD is committed to identifying and supporting a variety of efforts throughout our service area.

Investments shall be consistent with the shared WBD/504 mission of creating and retaining jobs.

Following are several examples;

• Workforce development and job training programs
• Providing capital and/or financial resources to under served markets
• Small Business Incubators
• Technical Assistance Provides such as Small Business Development Centers, Veteran’s Business Outreach Centers, Women’s Business Centers, and/or the Service Corps of Retired Executives
• Contributions to other local nonprofits that provide grants and/or entrepreneurial training to small businesses or scholarships to students for participation in such entrepreneurial training programs
• Revolving Loan Funds as direct loans or matching funds for a federal, state or local program
• Downtown revitalization projects
• Financing economic impact studies to enable or document local economic development efforts

These examples are guidelines, but other efforts that support the growth or development of small business that creates jobs will also be considered.

Funding

Typical WBD investments range from $5,000 - $50,000. WBD will consider a multi year commitment in some cases.

We can approve an exception to the indirect costs rule up to 10% of the total budget depending on the project and specific circumstances. We will work with final candidates to discuss these possible costs in later application rounds.

Our fiscal year begins October 1st. Since our investments are directly tied to our business success, we do not know exactly what our budget for investing until our annual Audit is completed. However, we will make an estimate in February and refine the estimate as the year progresses. All commitments for investments will be completed each year by Sept 30.

Wausau Marathon County Impact Grants

Wausau Marathon County Impact Grants provide funding for projects and programs that most effectively make a positive impact on the greater Wausau area and Marathon County. 

Focus Areas

The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin’s quarterly Wausau Marathon County Impact Grants application process matches funding with innovative ideas of nonprofits meeting our community’s needs in the focus areas of:

• the Arts,
• Education,
• Health and Human Services, and
• Resource Preservation.

We attempt to understand both the specific objectives of a request and the long-term benefits to be derived by the community if a project receives funding.

What We Fund

We look for proposals that:

• Provide a long-term, tangible difference in meeting a specific need.
  • Examples include capital improvements and equipment needs.
• Provide capacity building resources to escalate your organization’s level of service.
  • An example is new program development.

Andersen Corporate Foundation

The Andersen Corporate Foundation was established in 1941 with the mission to improve lives and strengthen communities where Andersen employees live and work. Since then, the Foundation has donated more than $65 million to worthy causes.

The Andersen Corporate Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working in the following areas: housing, healthcare, hunger relief, and education. 

Giving Areas

Housing: Funding to increase housing access and stability, including services to transition out of homelessness, and provide and maintain affordable housing.

Health: Funding to advance health access and equity, including support for critical access hospitals/clinics/providers, expanded access to mental health services, and expanded access to preventative healthcare.

Hunger Relief: Funding to address food insecurity and increase food access, including providing healthy and culturally relevant foods.

Education: Funding to advance equity and opportunity in education, and funding to support and raise the profile of trades and industrial education programs.

Funding

The Andersen Corporate Foundation supports general operating, program/project, and capital campaign funding requests. Grants requests may range in size from $5,000 to $50,000 for general operating and program/project requests. The majority of general operating and program/project grants awarded fall between $5,000 and $20,000.

RCU Foundation Grant

Our nonprofit foundation has given more than $10 million to support organizations and initiatives in our communities.

The RCU Foundation is a perfect example of how we are striving to live out our core purpose of creating a positive impact in the lives we touch. The Foundation awards grant funds to organizations in the communities Royal serves across Western Wisconsin and Eastern Minnesota. Since it began in 2012, the RCU Foundation has given more than $10 million to our communities.

Criteria

Requests are carefully evaluated on several criteria, including:

• Demonstrated need and community benefit
• Geographic focus on areas that Royal serves, especially near office locations
• Significance and impact, especially the total number of people that will benefit
• Organization or initiative capacity and credibility
• Future sustainability and plan for ongoing expenses
• Demonstrated financial support from a variety of sources, with the RCU Foundation not the largest or sole source of project funding

Preservation

Kohler Foundation is committed to the preservation of art environments and important collections, as well as Wisconsin culture and heritage. In the past, Kohler Foundation’s preservation efforts were focused almost entirely in the state of Wisconsin. However, the Foundation is committed to expanding its preservation efforts nationwide. In some cases, artists have transformed their homes and/or their yards into powerful and unique works of art; some have built chapels and grottos, while others created literally hundreds of life-size or over-life-size sculptures and murals that cover entire buildings. Kohler Foundation has initiated and completed many major restorations, among them: The Painted Forest at Valton, Wisconsin; Wisconsin Concrete Park in Phillips, Wisconsin; Paul and Matilda Wegner Grotto at Cataract, Wisconsin; Prairie Moon Sculpture Garden and Museum near Cochrane, Wisconsin; Nick Engelbert’s Grandview in Hollandale, Wisconsin, Hartman Rock Garden in Springfield, Ohio; Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden in Sheboygan, Wisconsin; and Kenny Hill's Chauvin Sculpture Environment in Chauvin, Louisiana. Kohler Foundation's most recent site preservation projects include the Garden of Eden sculpture park in Lucas, Kansas, Pasaquan in Buena Vista, Georgia, and the Langlais Preserve in Cushing, Maine. Many of our Wisconsin sites are included in Wandering Wisconsin, a consortium of art environments in the state.  

At the Kohler Foundation, we believe the power of small investments, thoughtfully made, creates a lasting impact.

• Grants of up to $10,000 will be available with preference given to new projects and programs.
• Eligible grant applicants must be classified as tax-exempt public charities (Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) or public institutions such as schools or governmental entities.)
• Our geographic funding preference is Sheboygan County, but we consider applicable programs throughout rural Wisconsin. We award grants primarily within the state of Wisconsin.

Funding Priorities

Kohler Foundation makes grants to tax-exempt public charities described under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service Code or public institutions such as schools or governmental entities. Kohler Foundation is organized to engage in, advance, support, promote, and administer educational and artistic activities primarily within the Sheboygan County region. While our focus remains local to this area, we also support arts and education programs in rural communities in the state of Wisconsin, particularly those that have already been the recipients of KFI investment through its other program areas (e.g. Art Preservation), and rural areas where there is little other philanthropic capital available.

• Programs within the fields of arts and education are of special interest to KFI’s grant committee, including:
  • STEAM initiatives (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics);
  • Increasing access to the arts (e.g. transportation, visiting artists/distance learning, rural outreach, technology);
  • Programs which have a specific plan to create an impact of greater proportion than a small grant might initially reflect.
• Requests for technology and equipment may receive funding occasionally, but not on an ongoing basis.

Mission

The mission of the Superior-Douglas County Arts Fund is to support projects and programs which help people develop an appreciation of the arts, make the arts accessible to all people, and expose people to a variety of multicultural arts experiences. The objective of the fund is to provide assistance to visual, literary and/or performing arts projects. Preference will be given to programs or projects which provide performance and/or artistic opportunities for children or youth in grades K – 8. Requests for capital projects will not be considered.

Examples of possible projects

The following are representative, but not exclusive examples of projects which could be recipients of this fund:

• Costs to bring arts programs to new audiences, especially K-5 students in the school systems;
• Collaborative projects which involve schools, families, and the broader community;
• Support for teacher training;
• Support for art supplies or musical instruments;
• Exhibit or performance costs;
• Artist in residency programs, workshops, or master classes;
• Subsidized performance tickets to encourage audience development;
• Soloist or guest artist fees;
• Costs for visiting, innovative, experimental, or outreach presentations or programs;
• Costs to develop new arts programs.

Examples of possible grant recipients

The following are representative, but not exclusive, examples of possible grant recipients to implement the objectives of this fund:

• Area schools and school districts;
• Bong Heritage Center;
• City of Superior.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

La Crosse Community Foundation

Mission

Connecting people, passion, and giving in the La Crosse area forever.

Vision

The catalyst for a vibrant, generous, and inclusive community.

Funding

La Crosse Area Community Foundation welcomes grant applications from charitable organizations with missions aimed at enhancing the quality of life in La Crosse County Wisconsin. Last year, we awarded $1,023,144 in competitive grants across our eight impact areas: Arts & Humanities, Community Improvement, Culture & Diversity, Education, Environment, Faith, Health & Human Services, and Recreation & Wellness.

Mini Grants

Mini grants are part of our historic competitive grants program to be responsive to the needs of nonprofit organizations serving La Crosse County. La Crosse Community Foundation has allocated $100,000 this calendar year specifically for nonprofits seeking awards of $1,000 - $15,000 for result-oriented projects and programs that address a proven community need or priority aimed at making La Crosse County a better place now and for future generations.

Mission

The Mission of the Foundation is to provide resources to nonprofit organizations that build thriving communities and improve the quality of life primarily in the St. Croix Valley geographic region of Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Funding Priorities

The Foundation has established a focused set of priorities and welcomes requests for general operations, programs, or projects.  Capital requests may be considered on a more limited basis.

• Healthcare
  • Medical Research
  • Mental/Chemical Health
  • Hospitals
• Housing
  • Affordable Housing for Families and Seniors
• Education
  • Youth Education Initiatives
• Human Services
  • Basic Needs
  • Food Insecurity
  • Employment
• Civic
  • Local Initiatives
• Environment
  • Environmental Education

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) supports initiatives for community and neighborhood development, health and human services, arts and culture, education and environment. The company matches its employees’ charitable giving to those initiatives and also conducts an annual workplace giving campaign for the United Way. Financial support is provided to the activities of nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations in communities served by WPS. Most of the charitable support is through the WPS Foundation, funded by stockholders of WEC Energy Group.

Contributions are made in the following categories:

• Arts & Culture: Arts and culture add to the richness of life in our communities. We support projects that promote diversity and make the arts accessible to all people. This includes theater, dance, music and museums.
• Community & Neighborhood Development: Communities become stronger when neighbors work together. We support nonprofit organizations dedicated to community improvement.
• Education: Lifelong learning helps ensure a strong future for our communities and their economies. We contribute to programs that complement our company's educational programs and philosophies, including opportunities for minorities and women. We support partnerships between businesses and educational institutions, career planning and youth mentorship.
• Environment: As a company, we protect and encourage the wise use of natural resources. We also support others' efforts for the betterment of fish and wildlife, water and air quality, forests, energy efficiency, renewable energy and recycling.
• Human Services & Health: The physical and emotional well-being of everyone in our communities is a measure of the health of the communities. We support programs that serve limited-income, senior and handicapped individuals, and those emphasizing wellness.

History

WPS Foundation was incorporated in 1964, funded with paper company stocks and bonds repurchased by WPS in the late 1920s. The transfer of the certificates, accomplished over a four-year period, gave the foundation a financial base of $2 million. The resulting tax credits increased the value of WPS stock by $.20 per share, and gave the company a consistent means of contributing to charitable, educational and scientific organizations. Over the past 30 years, the foundation's stocks and bonds were redeemed, and the money has been used to buy mutual funds.

The foundation is a strong supporter of capital projects, the United Way and start-up programs in communities served by the four energy companies in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.

Each region the energy companies serve has a Contributions Committee of local employees from a cross-section of departments. Donation requests for a region are sent to the region's Contributions Committee, which reviews the requests based on the needs and issues in the community.

Grants to Friends Groups

Each year, $500,000 from the Stewardship program is set aside for grants to friends groups and nonprofit conservation organizations (NCOs) to improve facilities, build new recreation projects and restore habitat on state properties. The program recognizes the important role friends groups play in meeting the development and restoration needs of state properties.

How Much Money is Available

A total of $500,000 is available each year for grants under this program, with a limit of $20,000 per property. Depending on the number of applicants, there may be competition for available funds. Funding for large projects may be applied in three phases with a limit of $20,000 per year or a maximum of $60,000 per project. There must be a usable component of the project at the end of each phase.

Grants Awarded

Grants are awarded for up to 50% of project costs. The other 50% of project costs shall be provided by the project sponsor. Up to 50% of the sponsor's share of project costs may be non-cash donations such as materials, equipment use, services and labor.

Background

Each year, $500,000 from the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship program is set aside for grants to friends groups and nonprofit conservation organizations (NCOs) to improve facilities, build new recreation projects and restore habitat on state properties. The program recognizes the important role friends groups play in meeting the development and restoration needs of state properties.

Funding

A total of $500,000 is available each year for grants under this program, with a limit of $20,000 per property. Depending on the number of applicants, there may be competition for available funds. Funding for large projects may be applied in three phases with a limit of $20,000 per year or a maximum of $60,000 per project. There must be a usable component of the project at the end of each phase.

Grants are awarded for up to 50% of project costs. The other 50% of project costs shall be provided by the project sponsor. Up to 50% of the sponsor's share of project costs may be non-cash donations such as materials, equipment use, services and labor.

Because program funds originate from bonded money, a development project must be a permanent improvement, having a life expectancy of 20 years or more.

Projects should not be started until you receive your signed grant contract and should be completed within two years.

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Grants to Friends Groups

Each year, $250,000 from the Stewardship program is set aside for grants to friends groups and nonprofit conservation organizations (NCOs) to improve facilities, build new recreation projects and restore habitat on state properties. The program recognizes the important role friends groups play in meeting the development and restoration needs of state properties.

History & Mission

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust is a private foundation focused on preventing cruelty to animals and promoting the humane treatment of animals, particularly companion animals such as dogs and cats, and other species of animals commonly kept as household pets.  The Foundation also supports efforts to protect the well-being of urban-suburban wildlife, captive exotic wildlife, farmed animals, working animals, and non-human animals generally.  It extends in perpetuity the generosity toward animals in need shown by Kenneth Allen Scott during his lifetime, assisting those who care for them today.

Giving Strategy

The Foundation has two deadlines each year for proposals for Ohio/Great Lake Region Grants, depending on project topic. You may apply for one round or the other, and request funding for only one project in your proposal.

Ohio and Other Great Lakes Grants

The Foundation devotes most of its resources to grants for organizations in Ohio and portions of the other seven states in the Great Lakes watershed (including IL, IN, MI, WI, Western PA, Upstate NY, and Northeastern MN), reflecting the origin of Mr. Scott’s assets. We seek innovative, cost-effective projects that demonstrate our region’s commitment to improving the well-being of animals, especially those in underserved areas or belonging to disadvantaged social groups. We prefer initiatives that are metropolitan, multi-county, statewide or regional or involve collaborations among multiple agencies. Requests from small organizations with localized impact are less likely to be funded. Successful applicants will pursue a high quality of life for individual animals and improve the situation of significant numbers of animals.

Program Areas

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust’s priority is helping organizations go beyond basic care to support initiatives that will provide an enhanced quality of life for homeless and abused companion animals today and in the future.

Funding applications should address one of the following program areas:

Animal Adoption, Behavior Training, and Fostering

• projects to increase successful adoptions or other non-capital means of expanding shelter capacity.

Continuing Education & Training

• opportunities for staff and volunteers to improve delivery of care and retain employees.

Humane & Wildlife Education

• school and community programs that address respecting animals, humane care, health issues and human/wildlife conflicts. 

About Us

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin gives everyone the opportunity to make significant and lasting gifts to their community.

We manage over 250 funds that enhance Portage and Waushara counties. Together with our generous donors, we create a strong culture of philanthropy in Central Wisconsin.

We are a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) public charity founded in 1982 to provide scholarships and grants to organizations and projects that improve the quality of life in Portage and Waushara counties.

Community Grants

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin offers two competitive grant cycles annually to support programs and projects in Portage and Waushara counties that align with our Values and five Mission areas. Community Grant requests are limited to $25,000; larger projects are recommended to apply during the Major Projects cycle in the spring. Community Grant applications will be evaluated by a committee of community volunteers, with final approval of the CFCWI Board of Directors.

Mission Areas

• Arts & Culture
• Education
• Environment
• Helping People
• Wellness

Background

The Habitat grant program provides funding to preserve essential habitat; protect, restore, and stabilize important fish habitats; and increase habitat availability. The GLFT pursues these efforts through investments in specific places with a degraded or vulnerable habitat, connectivity enhancements, and use of decision-support tools that suggest optimal strategies for investing in habitat. The RFP is planned for release annually in the winter.

The GLFT prioritizes its investments in capital projects such as fish passage, dam removal, and land acquisition to projects where the habitat opportunity is prime, other funders are contributing, long-term management is assured, and the proposed project has the strongest community support and interest.

Funding Priorities

The Trust’s priorities for the Habitat Protection and Restoration grant category are:

• Projects that offer an increase in long-term, sustainable, natural reproduction for species now supported by hatchery production—project benefits should be targeted toward salmonids and nonsalmonid predator game species.
• Projects that offer secondary benefits—for example, improved sea lamprey management or protection of state-listed threatened or endangered species—may be supported at a greater funding level.
• Applicants that use the Great Lakes Aquatic Habitat Framework (GLAHF), the Great Lakes Fishery Commission Barrier Removal Collaboration Suite, Fishwerks, existing field inventories, or similar tools to identify appropriate projects or as part of their proposed scopes of work.

What does this program do?

This program is designed to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses. Small means that the business has fewer than 50 new workers and less than $1 million in gross revenue.

What kind of funding is available?

There is no maximum grant amount; however, smaller requests are given higher priority. There is no cost sharing requirement. Opportunity grants are limited to up to 10 percent of the total Rural Business Development Grant annual funding.

How may funds be used?

Enterprise grants must be used on projects to benefit small and emerging businesses in rural areas as specified in the grant application. Uses may include:

• Training and technical assistance, such as project planning, business counseling and training, market research, feasibility studies, professional or/technical reports or producer service improvements.
• Acquisition or development of land, easements, or rights of way; construction, conversion, renovation of buildings; plants, machinery, equipment, access for streets and roads; parking areas and utilities.
• Pollution control and abatement.
• The capitalization of revolving loan funds, including funds that will make loans for start-ups and working capital.
• Distance adult learning for job training and advancement.
• Rural transportation improvement.
• Community economic development.
• Technology-based economic development.
• Feasibility studies and business plans.
• Leadership and entrepreneur training.
• Rural business incubators.
• Long-term business strategic planning.

Opportunity grants can be used for:

• Community economic development.
• Technology-based economic development.
• Feasibility studies and business plans.
• Leadership and entrepreneur training.
• Rural business incubators.
• Long-term business strategic planning.

Mission

The Four Cedars Environmental Fund provides financial incentives that initiate, stimulate, enrich and assist programs and organizations involved in the protection, preservation and education of the unique natural resources found primarily within the western Lake Superior watershed. The fund supports programs and organizations with capital requests, start-up costs, technical assistance and project/program support.

Examples

• The University of Wisconsin-Superior, located in Douglas County, Wisconsin
• The Sigurd Olson Institute at Northland College, located in Ashland County, Wisconsin
• The McCabe Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, located in St. Louis County, Minnesota
• Sweetwater Alliance, located in St. Louis County, Minnesota
• The Great Lakes Aquarium, located in St. Louis County, Minnesota
• The Sustainable Farming Association of Northeast Minnesota, located in St. Louis County, Minnesota
• The research vessel L.L. Smith of the Lake Superior Research Institute, located in St. Louis County, Minnesota

Background

The Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation was established in 1983 by visionary community leaders. We are a collection of hundreds of endowed funds established by individuals, families, private foundations, and businesses to enhance the quality of life in our region. Since our inception, we have distributed more than $40 million in grants and scholarships and currently administer over 360 different funds, each with its own charitable purpose. The Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation promotes private giving for the public good.

Mission

The primary objective of the Fund for Women and Girls is to support women and girls so that they may live meaningful, empowering, fulfilling, healthy and safe lives. Such objectives may include providing financial support to nonprofit organizations providing educational and financial support to women and girls; empowering women and girls to excel in matters of education, career development, health and wellness, and leadership in civic live; working toward gender equity; and providing advocacy and safety from voilence. Project support, capital projects or general operating support may be considereed. 

Examples

The following are representative, but not exclusive, examples of projects which could be recipients of Fund for Women and Girls grants:

• Building upgrades and repairs;
• Support for legal services;
• Family visitation program support;
• Community outreach programs;
• Sexual abuse prevention programming;
• Adolescent girls career development programming 

Who We Are

Founded in 2007, the Wisdom Family Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization built on the belief that empowering children transforms families, communities, and the world.

Every day, children in our communities face extraordinary challenges. Through our Greater Chicago, Northern Wisconsin, Twin Cities and International Chapters, the Wisdom Family Foundation provides children around the world with the resources and encouragement they need to persevere through difficulty, whether that’s access to food, academic scholarships, medical and housing assistance, or hope during the holidays. 

We are dedicated to building a spirit of generosity within the communities we serve and motivating others to extend a giving heart. We often join forces with strategic partners to help us target our investment.

We take special care with each giving opportunity to understand how we can best be a champion for the recipient and serve their needs.

As a family-run nonprofit organization, we are personally and wholeheartedly involved in every initiative we support. And we have our sights set on reaching even more children, families, and communities going forward.

The Wisdom Family Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Wisdom Collective. The Wisdom Collective pursues projects that take you out of the norm and challenge you to initiative positive change in your community. Our mission is to inspire leaders and the next generation by investing in community, building connections, and promoting healthy ways of living.

Operating and capital support to strengthen communities.

For more than a decade, the Wisdom Family Foundation has supported organizations who share our mission of empowering children, families and communities to be their best. In recent years, the Wisdom Family Foundation has made donations and awarded operating grants for work in:

• Youth enrichment
• Food security
• Socioeconomic development
• Medical assistance
• Environmental relief
• Racial equity & social justice

Funding

Wisdom Family Foundation typically awards operating grants between $1,000-5,000. The board of directors considers larger capital grants toward projects that will strengthen communities on a case-by-case basis.

La Crosse Community Foundation

Mission

Connecting people, passion, and giving in the La Crosse area forever.

Vision

The catalyst for a vibrant, generous, and inclusive community.

Funding

La Crosse Area Community Foundation welcomes grant applications from charitable organizations with missions aimed at enhancing the quality of life in La Crosse County Wisconsin. Last year, we awarded $1,023,144 in competitive grants across our eight impact areas: Arts & Humanities, Community Improvement, Culture & Diversity, Education, Environment, Faith, Health & Human Services, and Recreation & Wellness.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Program Grants

Capacity-building grants aim to invest in the health and sustainability of nonprofit organizations serving La Crosse County. La Crosse Community Foundation (LCF) has allocated $300,000 this calendar year specifically for nonprofits who need investment in their internal infrastructure to create a more sustainable and effective organization. This year’s capacity building grant opportunity will give preference to applicant organizations with missions aimed at reducing disparities for La Crosse County residents who identify with historically marginalized communities. Individual awards are expected to range from $50,000-$90,000 for a minimum of two consecutive years and will be paired with significant in-kind support through robust, ongoing technical assistance offered throughout the entire grant award period.

Purpose of this Grant

La Crosse Community Foundation is committed to investing in our community’s nonprofit sector through evolving grant programs aimed at meeting needs identified by nonprofits during our recent nonprofit focus groups. We are also committed to building a more equitable and inclusive community by uplifting opportunities for area residents to build social capital across areas of difference.

La Crosse Community Foundation defines social capital as the trust individuals develop with one another through genuine, mutually beneficial relationships, most commonly called friendships. Individuals with high social capital have broad connections across areas of difference that help them endure difficult times and access better opportunities.

Nonprofits are a vital resource for diverse communities, expanding relationships and connecting them with essential services needed to build social capital and thrive. When the infrastructure of these organizations is strengthened, the communities they serve benefit, and our region moves closer to reducing disparities.

The specific purpose of the Nonprofit Capacity Building Program is to align financial support for both general operating and capacity building along with intense, on-going technical assistance to support nonprofits in achieving new levels of organizational strength and effectiveness.

Grantees will closely partner with La Crosse Community Foundation to meet defined goals and manage the tracking and reporting requirements of this grant; they’ll also be asked to share lessons learned with other awardees through quarterly nonprofit networking sessions aimed to build new, trusting relationships across impact areas and organizations to help spur collaboration.

Nordson Corporation Foundation

The Nordson Corporation Foundation awards grants to non-profits in our communities throughout the United States. Since 1989, the Foundation has awarded more than $60 million in grants to improve the quality of life in our communities, placing a special focus on causes related to education. Employees support the foundation by making donations during our annual A Time to Give Campaign, or by participating in a Community Affairs Committee (CAC). Committees review grant applications and vote to distribute Foundation funds to deserving local causes. During the last financial year, the Foundation gave out 362 grants totaling $6.3 million.

Nordson Foundation Giving Strategies

The geographic areas in which Nordson has major facilities determine the Nordson Foundation's giving priorities.

Within these geographic areas, granting priorities are driven by community needs. Although needs change quickly, our vision is long term. We pursue and support results-oriented opportunities that prepare individuals for full and equal participation in the economic and social mainstream. We believe these kinds of programs help improve the quality of life over the long term and produce stronger, more enlightened communities in which we live and work. We strive to fulfill these responsibilities in our communities through contributions to charitable activities with a focus on education. Other major giving categories that are supported are human welfare, civic affairs and arts and culture. 

Nordson Foundation Values 

In the spirit of our corporate founders, the Nordson Corporation Foundation continues to operate on the belief that business, as a corporate citizen, has a social responsibility to share its success with the communities where it operates and draws employees.  

The Nordson Foundation is dedicated to improving our communities by supporting the continuum of education from birth to adulthood in the belief that education is the key for individuals to become self-sufficient, productive members of society.  

To prepare individuals for economic independence, a variety of quality educational experiences are necessary. To be successful today, individuals not only need to master the basics, “reading, writing and arithmetic”, they must also know how to think critically and creatively. Strengthening the community’s human capital – through quality education – is crucial.  

The Nordson Foundation offers support to non-profit organizations that cultivate educational curriculum and experiences that foster self-sufficiency, job readiness and goals to aspire to higher education. The Foundation is well aware of the fact that for non-profit organizations to remain viable they must receive operating support. With this in mind, Nordson Corporation Foundation does invest in general operating support.  

As stewards of the Foundation assets, the directors feel strongly that the organizations that are supported by the Foundation be able to measure the effectiveness of their mission and programs. Quantitative and/or qualitative data allows for the Foundation to ensure that the organizations it supports are bringing about the desired outcomes in our communities.

Nordson Foundation Goals

The goals of the Nordson Corporation Foundation are to insure that:

• All children have access to and receive quality educational experiences from early childhood  
• All individuals have the opportunity to be self-sufficient members of society 
• There is a continuum of quality educational opportunities 
• Our communities are strengthened by the organizations we fund whether their focus is education, human welfare, civic or arts and culture

Nordson Foundation Funding Strategy

Through its grant-making, the Foundation supports organizations that directly or indirectly seek to maximize success before, during and beyond the traditional classroom years. Grants will be reviewed and considered on the basis of their enrichment to the communities where our employees live and work. Organizations and programs receiving grants will be expected to identify relevant, measurable outcomes to demonstrate the effectiveness of their programs.

Education

• Early Childhood Care and Education
• Maximizing Student Success
• Access to quality educational opportunities
• Innovative programs
• Partnerships/collaborations with school districts
• Funding gaps not covered by public monies
• Augmenting core curriculum
• Exposure to programs that expand on traditional education
• Workforce Preparation
• Initial preparation for the world of work
• Retraining for the new job market
• Strengthening our communities

Human Welfare

• Promote prevention and lifestyle maintenance programs and activities
• Promote crisis intervention
• Promote life transition opportunities
• Promote systemic change

Arts and Culture

• Actively seek to broaden the audience bases in Nordson communities
• Support the visual and performing arts
• Provide educational enrichment for students
• Motivation for at-risk youth
• Provide access to the arts for special needs audience
• Promote greater understanding among people via the arts

Civic

• Work to improve the physical or economic environment
• Provide cultural or historical preservation
• Strive to inform citizens and increase their participation in community improvement

About Us

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin gives everyone the opportunity to make significant and lasting gifts to their community.

We manage over 250 funds that enhance Portage and Waushara counties. Together with our generous donors, we create a strong culture of philanthropy in Central Wisconsin.

We are a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) public charity founded in 1982 to provide scholarships and grants to organizations and projects that improve the quality of life in Portage and Waushara counties.

Major Projects

The Major Projects cycle at the Community Foundation supports the growth and development of a community project that makes a major impact in Portage and/or Waushara counties.

This cycle will fund up to one project annually in the range of $25,000-$50,000.

Mission Areas

• Arts & Culture
• Education
• Environment
• Helping People
• Wellness

Declined projects are invited to apply to the CFCWI Spring Community Grants for up to $25,000.