Best Grants for Museums in Wisconsin

The AHA Quest for Quality Prize recognizes hospitals and health systems that demonstrate exceptional leadership in improving care quality and advancing health. Applicants should showcase innovative models of care and effective partnerships with community organizations. One winner and two finalists will be honored at the 2026 AHA Leadership Summit in Denver. This award aims to inspire hospitals to commit to patient-centered care and address healthcare disparities, ultimately enhancing community health outcomes.

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

The Engagement Award: Dissemination Initiative by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) aims to enhance patient engagement in healthcare decisions through comparative clinical effectiveness research. Since 2010, PCORI has funded over $3 billion for nearly 2,000 projects, focusing on improving health outcomes by providing actionable information. The initiative emphasizes transparency and stakeholder involvement, ensuring that results are accessible to both patients and clinicians, ultimately fostering informed healthcare choices.

The Engagement Award: Convening Support fosters meaningful collaboration among patients, caregivers, clinicians, and other stakeholders in research. Initiated by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), this program aims to enhance patient engagement throughout the research process. By providing tools and resources, the award supports initiatives that improve healthcare delivery and outcomes, ensuring that patient perspectives are integral to research efforts.

The Cold Noses Foundation Grant aims to support organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals, including domestic pets, wildlife, and farm animals. Grants are available to U.S. non-profits and selected international equivalents with an annual income of $200,000 or less. The foundation emphasizes accountability, requiring detailed financial reporting and adherence to ethical standards. Deadlines for applications vary by region, ensuring timely funding for impactful animal welfare projects.

The IDNR: State Duck Stamp Funding program supports the development of waterfowl propagation areas in the Mississippi Flyway. Funded by sales of State Migratory Waterfowl Stamps, it focuses on projects in Canada and the U.S. that enhance waterfowl populations. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations aiming to implement the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. This initiative not only fosters wildlife conservation but also strengthens ecological sustainability in the region.

The InterLinc Family Foundation Grant focuses on improving community quality of life through strategic investments. It supports 501(c)(3) non-profits with proven effectiveness and sound financial management. Grants aim to address specific community needs, avoiding service duplication. Eligible projects should align with the Foundation's interests and demonstrate broad financial support. Applications are accepted year-round, fostering impactful initiatives that resonate with the Foundation's mission of community enhancement.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation aims to enhance the lives of children and young adults in the U.S. by providing financial support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on arts, education, health, and welfare. Grants, capped at $10,000, must be utilized within one year and are not automatically renewable. The foundation seeks to support smaller charities that may not receive broad public backing, thus creating a more significant impact on individual communities.

The Petit Family Foundation offers General Project Support Grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 to support local communities. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate programmatic capacity and leadership. The foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes and sustainability, focusing on projects that have a clear impact. Preference is given to local New England-based non-profits, while ineligible requests include funding for individuals, endowments, and political organizations. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and community alignment.

The Heistand Family Foundation Grant aims to empower children in poverty through impactful programs and partnerships. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance human health, community well-being, and education, focusing on practical applications. Nonprofit organizations and governmental entities are encouraged to apply, particularly those located in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area or western Iowa. This grant supports initiatives that foster job skills and improve the quality of life for disadvantaged children.

The Charles D. Jacobus Family Foundation provides general operating grants to organizations located in Milwaukee County, focusing on the healthy development of children. Eligible programs include prevention initiatives, positive youth activities, and family strengthening efforts. The foundation prioritizes community-based solutions that engage families and promote child welfare. Grants also support research evaluating the impact of welfare reforms on local children. Organizations must align with the Foundation's commitment to nurturing children's physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth.

The James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation focuses on enriching lives and making a positive impact in local communities. They prioritize funding for tax-exempt organizations that enhance education, health care, and support the under-served. The Foundation seeks to partner with those who demonstrate accountability and effective resource management, aligning with their mission for community enrichment and leadership development.

The NBA Foundation Grants aim to empower Black youth by providing economic opportunities through skills training, mentorship, and career advancement programs. Established by all 30 NBA teams, the foundation focuses on organizations aligned with its mission, specifically those serving Black youth in NBA markets. Applications for 2024 grants are now open, with a review process taking 12-14 weeks. This initiative is crucial for promoting sustainable economic and racial justice in communities.

The Waunakee Community Foundation, established in 2004, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in the Waunakee area by funding impactful projects. This private foundation supports charitable, educational, scientific, recreational, and literary initiatives that address community needs and foster collaboration. Organizations serving the Greater Waunakee Area, especially within the school district, are encouraged to apply, provided they uphold non-discrimination principles.

The Rhinelander Community Foundation Grants aim to strengthen community organizations in the Rhinelander area by providing financial support for innovative projects. Grants are available for charitable organizations, educational institutions, and local units that benefit the public. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors, fostering collaboration and partnership. With grants up to $5,000, the Foundation is committed to sustaining the vibrancy of the Rhinelander community through philanthropy.

Shaw's Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that enhance community well-being, focusing on hunger, youth education, and health. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and serve specific regions like California and Hawaii. An employee sponsor is mandatory for applications in these areas. The grant review process typically takes about eight weeks, and the foundation prioritizes collaborations with local partners to maximize community impact.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Moody's Community Impact Grant Program supports organizations with tax-exempt status to foster social and economic equality. Established by Moody's Foundation, it prioritizes initiatives that empower underestimated communities and entrepreneurs, driving innovation and ecological restoration. The foundation focuses on inclusive growth, providing resources for small businesses and community resilience. Eligible organizations must be registered charities under U.S. IRS guidelines, while ineligible entities include individuals and those promoting unlawful discrimination.

The Terry Farrell Firefighters’ Fund, established post-9/11, provides vital educational and financial support to families of firefighters across the U.S. With over $10 million distributed in grants and surplus gear, the fund offers scholarships, emergency assistance, and training for first responders. It also supplies rural fire departments with necessary equipment and sponsors health initiatives like blood and bone marrow drives, ensuring comprehensive support for those who serve our communities.

The Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation provides grants primarily to support institutions in Vermont, focusing on issues such as elderly welfare, educational assistance for learning disabilities, and community preservation. Emphasizing partnerships and innovative program models, the Foundation prefers applicants with a strong financial management background. Grants typically range from a few thousand dollars to $20,000, with larger amounts considered for significant impact projects. Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt organizations.

The Research Grants on Improving the Use of Research Evidence program aims to enhance the application of research findings for young people aged 5-25 in the U.S. It offers major grants ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000 over 2-4 years, focusing on impactful studies and capacity-building for researchers. The foundation encourages collaboration among scholars and practitioners to strengthen research practices and evidence use in various settings.

NEXT for AUTISM's grants program empowers autistic adults by funding innovative initiatives across work, home, social engagement, and health & well-being. With over 380 funded projects nationwide, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. First-time grantees can apply for up to $10,000, while returning grantees may request up to $25,000. The program emphasizes community-based solutions and aims to enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals.

Brothers Helping Brothers is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing essential tools and equipment to small and rural fire departments. Founded in 2014 after a tragic loss, the organization has raised over $20,000 to support fire services. They grant financial assistance to eligible fire and EMS organizations across the U.S. with a focus on enhancing safety and operational capability. Their mission continues to grow as they research and address the pressing needs of emergency services.

The Brothers Helping Brothers initiative aims to provide essential equipment to small fire departments and EMS organizations in the U.S. Established in 2014, the program offers grants to eligible agencies serving communities with populations under 10,000. With a focus on tools like wireless backup cameras, the organization strives to enhance safety and operational efficiency for first responders. Through community support, they have raised significant funds to assist in this critical mission.

National Community Care Corps Grant

Community Care Corps encourages organizations across the country to apply for 18-month grants ($30,000–$200,000) to develop and scale innovative volunteer programs that provide nonmedical assistance to older adults, adults age 18 and older with disabilities and family caregivers.

Projects funded through this initiative will increase the number of community-based volunteer programs available to provide nonmedical assistance while decreasing the number of older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers who need assistance in maintaining independence in the community but are unable to obtain help. In doing so, the initiative will strengthen community-based supports that help people maintain independence, reduce unmet needs, and improve overall well-being.

Focus Areas

Proposals must include one or more of the following focus areas:

• Integrate principles of the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers
• Support grandparent/kinship-led households
• Use off-the-shelf materials. Off-the-shelf materials are products, components, or resources that are readily available for purchase and immediate use, without the need for custom development, modification, or special ordering
• Engage college students/interns for intergenerational connections
• Expand virtual or low-tech access
• Provide volunteer chaperone programs for non-emergency medical appointments
• Increase access to respite programs
• Build opportunities for volunteer skill-building

The Dale Jr. Foundation, founded by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., has raised over $8 million since 2007 to support various charities focusing on youth and underprivileged communities. The foundation emphasizes empowerment, education, wellness, hunger relief, and hope, aiming to provide resources that enhance confidence and opportunities for children facing hardships. Through fundraising efforts and partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish, the foundation strives to positively impact lives and foster a sense of normalcy among children in need.