Best Grants for Preschools in Wisconsin

Joint Effort Marketing Grant Program

The Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program funds promotions or events for nonprofit organizations. The JEM grant has different categories to fit an organization’s needs. Each category reimburses Wisconsin nonprofit organizations for eligible promotional expenses. 

Destination Marketing

Destination Marketing grants require collaboration among at least three municipalities or communities. There are two types of Destination Marketing grants available for nonprofit organizations:

 This grant supports research and development expenses that investigate how to increase visitor spending across at least three municipalities or communities. The research will help you discover what makes your destination unique and attractive to visitors in order to define a brand and focus a marketing strategy. It can also help you acquire data to measure the impact of the visitor on the local economy. The eligible award amount is $10,000 per municipality, with the maximum award being $39,550, and must not exceed 50% of the overall budget. 

The Mission Grant by the Dubuque Racing Association aims to enhance community well-being through support for non-profit organizations focused on population growth, retention, and tourism. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt entities, with a preference for projects that involve capacity building. The grant does not fund endowments, political causes, or personal benefits. This initiative seeks to bolster the tri-state area, specifically targeting Dubuque and surrounding counties to promote local tourism and economic development.

The NCR-SARE Farmer Rancher Grant Program provides critical funding for farmers and ranchers seeking sustainable agricultural solutions. Launched in 1992, this competitive program supports innovative on-farm research and education projects, allowing individuals to apply for grants up to $15,000 or collaborate for up to $30,000. By empowering farmers with resources, NCR-SARE encourages practices that enhance livelihoods while promoting environmental stewardship.

Joint Effort Marketing Grant Program

The Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program funds promotions or events for nonprofit organizations. The JEM grant has different categories to fit an organization’s needs. Each category reimburses Wisconsin nonprofit organizations for eligible promotional expenses. 

Destination Marketing

Destination Marketing grants require collaboration among at least three municipalities or communities. There are two types of Destination Marketing grants available for nonprofit organizations:

This grant is for marketing and promotion initiatives that increase visitor spending across at least three municipalities or communities. This marketing option is designed to implement the research acquired in the Destination Marketing Development grant. The marketing initiatives should occur during the off-season when the region needs a boost in tourism business. The eligible award amount is $10,000 per municipality, with the maximum award being $39,550 for the project total.

The Nancy Armbrust Impact Award, presented by Schreiber Foods Foundation, honors women who significantly enhance community life. With a $5,000 grant for a nonprofit of the recipient's choice, the award empowers initiatives supporting women and girls. Recipients are recognized at the Women's Fund event around International Women's Day. This annual award celebrates Nancy Armbrust's legacy as a dedicated community leader, encouraging others to inspire and uplift women in their communities.

The WI Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports sustainable agricultural practices by protecting eligible lands from nonagricultural use. It focuses on preserving grazing lands and restoring wetlands, ensuring agricultural viability and conserving natural resources. ACEP features two main components: Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE), which aid landowners in safeguarding productive lands and enhancing wildlife habitats. This program encourages year-round applications, fostering long-term environmental stewardship.

The Little Rapids Corporation Egan Family Foundation Grant, established in 1986, supports charitable initiatives in communities where the company operates. The foundation emphasizes philanthropy in education, health and human services, youth development, and the arts. It seeks to fund projects that benefit many individuals over extended periods, with a preference for causes located in Northeast Wisconsin. This commitment reflects the family-owned structure's dedication to community enhancement and long-lasting positive impact.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Angler Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation Grant Program, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to increase angling participation among diverse adult audiences in Wisconsin. This program provides financial support to eligible organizations for activities that foster a safe and ethical fishing experience. By promoting community engagement and education, the grant seeks to enhance the number of active anglers, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and preserving Wisconsin's natural resources.

The WDNR Surface Water Grants support organizations in managing surface water through various stages, from planning to implementation. Eligible applicants, including lake associations and conservation organizations, can access funding for education, planning, and management projects aimed at improving water quality and combating invasive species. Key deadlines include May 1 for eligibility inquiries, September 15 for pre-applications, and November 15 for full proposals. These grants reflect the DNR's commitment to sustainable resource management in Wisconsin.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The NCR-SARE Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative agricultural projects that are environmentally sound and socially responsible. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 are available for projects lasting up to 36 months, promoting collaboration among researchers, educators, and producers. This program emphasizes outreach, farmer involvement, and research on topics such as sustainable pest management, local food systems, and crop diversification, addressing the economic and environmental aspects of agriculture.

The Wisconsin Garden Club Federation Della H. Balousek Scholarship honors a dedicated garden club member, providing three $3,000 non-renewable scholarships for tuition to full-time students at Wisconsin schools. This fund ensures Della Balousek's legacy of education and community spirit continues, supporting students in their academic pursuits. Eligible candidates must demonstrate commitment to their studies and maintain an acceptable major. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders in the gardening community.

The Charles E. Kubly Foundation Grants focus on improving the lives of those affected by depression through funding mental health projects. They prioritize initiatives that raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support suicide prevention. Grant requests are accepted from not-for-profit organizations providing direct services or educational programs. The foundation prefers projects impacting Wisconsin, with measurable outcomes and specific timelines. However, they do not support research, legislative activities, or ongoing operational costs.

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

The Frankenmuth Insurance Foundation Charitable Grant supports qualified charities focused on community betterment and basic human needs. Founded in 2016, it aims to enhance lives through initiatives such as affordable housing, health programs, and the arts. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and serve areas where Frankenmuth Insurance operates. Notably, the foundation excludes support for individuals, political groups, and projects typically financed by governments, ensuring its resources benefit the wider community.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program by the Arbor Day Foundation encourages colleges and universities to engage in sustainable practices by fostering community forests and enhancing campus greenery. Participating institutions benefit from recognition while promoting energy conservation, carbon absorption, and mental health support. By involving students in tree-related projects, schools cultivate environmental stewardship. This program not only beautifies campuses but also instills pride among students and staff, making higher education environments healthier and more livable.

The NCR-SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports agricultural educators through competitive grants aimed at enhancing training in sustainable agriculture. This initiative promotes cross-agency collaboration, utilizing farmers as educators to address pressing issues within the farming community. Projects funded are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes, fostering knowledge and behavioral changes that lead to sustainable practices in agriculture and food systems. The program encourages diverse participation, ensuring a comprehensive approach to professional development.

The NCR-SARE Partnership Grant Program aims to enhance sustainable agriculture by fostering collaboration between agricultural professionals and groups of farmers. By facilitating innovative research and educational activities, this program supports projects that test new cropping strategies, develop marketing approaches, and enhance food security. Focused on the North Central Region, it encourages partnerships that drive on-farm research, ultimately improving economic viability and environmental stewardship for communities across 12 states.

The Smithsonian Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) offers research grants for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and early-career researchers. These grants support projects utilizing Forest Dynamics Sites for fieldwork and data analysis, encouraging both natural and social science research. Proposals must integrate site data and can last from 3 months to 2 years. Funding covers research-related expenses, with priorities for projects enhancing educational and capacity-building efforts.

The Wausau East Girls Swim Team Scholarship, established in 2006, honors student athletes who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the sport and their community. Administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, this scholarship supports graduating seniors from Wausau East High School who have been active members of the swim team for at least three years. It celebrates values such as teamwork, perseverance, and a positive attitude, fostering future leaders both in academics and athletics.

The NCR-SARE Youth Educator Grant Program supports educators in the North Central Region to innovate ways of teaching sustainable agriculture. With funding up to $6,000, this program encourages educators to engage youth and promote sustainable practices. By sharing their experiences, grantees can create a ripple effect among peers, enhancing the reach and impact of sustainable agriculture education. This initiative aims to foster creativity and collaboration in teaching sustainable practices to the next generation.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announces funding opportunities for the Reproductive Health and Family Planning Grants, specifically the Women’s Health Block Grant. This program aims to enhance access to critical reproductive health services, including pregnancy testing, cervical cancer screening, and STI prevention. With a total funding amount of $1,328,000 available for each grant period, up to 30 grants will be awarded to facilitate comprehensive health services for women across Wisconsin in 2026.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Wisconsin support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten access to safe drinking water. Events such as droughts, floods, and chemical spills qualify for funding, which can be used for constructing waterlines and sources up to $1 million. This initiative encourages partnerships and aims to restore access to clean water in rural areas, enhancing community resilience and environmental sustainability.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers Reproductive Health and Family Planning Grants aimed at supporting racial minority health professionals. With a total funding of $31,500 per grant period, these grants aim to employ licensed nurses and midwives in minority communities. The program, effective from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, will award up to 10 agreements to enhance healthcare access and services for underserved populations.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.