Best Grants for Preschools in Wisconsin

The William K. Gottschalk Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, supports second-year or higher students at UWSP at Wausau or Northcentral Technical College pursuing degrees in accounting or engineering. Over 200 scholarships are awarded annually, totaling more than $300,000. Applicants must be Wisconsin residents with a strong commitment to their chosen field and plan to attend NTC or UWSP for at least two years.

The Fred C. & Katherine B. Andersen Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the St. Croix Valley of Minnesota and Wisconsin. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with priorities in healthcare, education, housing, human services, civic initiatives, and environmental education. While capital requests may be considered, the foundation primarily funds operational and programmatic needs. Organizations outside the geographic area may be considered if they align with the foundation's funding priorities.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Small-Scale Population Management Projects

Small-Scale Population Management projects will maintain a low abundance of one or more aquatic invasive species populations or further reduce their size. Projects should implement management activities with the goal of continued suppression of the target species where the actions are unlikely to affect the entire lake, stream reach or wetland. Projects should be designed to result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of the target species.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Large-Scale Population Management Projects

Large-Scale Population Management projects will result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of aquatic invasive species. Projects are large in scale, affecting a substantial portion of a lake, stream reach, or wetland.

Projects that address multiple populations across a region should employ a strategic approach to managing multiple populations, prioritizing control actions in a way that ensures wise spending of grant funds. For example, a regional wetland control project might focus on populations that threaten high-functioning natural wetlands or focus on small, more easily controlled populations. For Phragmites-focused projects seeking AIS planning and control grant funds, please see the Phragmites Statewide Management Strategy for more specific guidance.

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.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

ATV/UTV Trail Aids Program

A financial assistance program administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The all-terrain vehicle and utility terrain vehicle trail aids grant program was created with section 23.33, Wis. Stats. This law authorizes the Department to administer a program of financial assistance to local units of government and federal agencies for the acquiring, developing, rehabilitating, insuring and maintaining of off-road all-terrain and utility terrain vehicle trails, intensive use areas, and more. 

Counties, towns, cities, villages and tribes can apply for funds to acquire, insure, develop and maintain ATV/UTV trails, areas and routes.

Ranking Priorities

Trail funds are distributed according to the following ranked purposes (NR 64.14 [exit DNR]):

• maintenance of existing, approved trails, areas, and routes;
• liability insurance acquisition;
• easement acquisition;
• major rehabilitation of bridge structures or trails; and
• Land acquisition and development of new ATV trails and areas.

Eligible items and funding levels include:

• all-terrain/utility-terrain vehicle trails available for spring, summer, and fall reimbursable up to 100 percent of eligible maintenance costs (max: $1,000 per mile);
• all-terrain vehicle trails available for winter riding reimbursable up to 100 percent of eligible maintenance costs (max: $100 to $300 per mile depending on other uses);
• development of ATV trails and areas reimbursable up to 100 percent of eligible costs;
• major rehabilitation of bridge structures or trails reimbursable up to 100 percent of eligible costs; and
• maintenance of ATV intensive use areas reimbursable up to 50 percent of eligible costs.

The GPCAH Community Pilot Grant supports innovative research and outreach aimed at enhancing the health and safety of agricultural workers in the Midwest. Funded by NIOSH, this program encourages projects focusing on critical issues like mental health, injury prevention, and chemical safety. With grants up to $30,000, it invites collaboration from various organizations, particularly those within the nine-state region. Special emphasis is placed on proposals addressing the needs of underrepresented groups in agriculture.

PFund Foundation supports LGBTQ+ communities in the Upper Midwest by providing event sponsorship funding for various gatherings, including fundraisers and pride festivals. Organizations eligible for funding must align with the foundation's mission, serve LGBTQ+ individuals, and be registered as 501c3 nonprofit entities. Events must be located within the foundation's service area and be scheduled at least 60 days in advance. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and support.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Sport Fish Restoration (SFR) - Boat Access Program

These grants may be used to construct boat access projects. Eligible components include boat ramp construction and renovation, along with related amenities such as parking lots, accessible paths, lighting and restroom facilities. Funding for this program comes from federal excise taxes on fishing equipment and a portion of the federal gas tax.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Sport Fish Restoration (SFR) - Fishing Piers

These grants may be used to construct fishing piers that are primarily designed to provide public access for shore fishing. Eligible projects are fishing pier construction and renovations. Facilities that provide access to and amenities for fishing piers may also be eligible. Matching contributions for these grants must be from non-federal sources.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Underserved Drinking Water System

The federal Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act of 2016 (WIIN) provided funds to assist public water systems in small, underserved and disadvantaged communities in resolving violations and action level exceedances of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. The Wisconsin DNR received funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set up the Underserved Drinking Water System Grant Program in Wisconsin. The DNR will issue approximately $1.3 million in grants to OTM and nonprofit NN public water systems serving small and underserved communities in Wisconsin.

What are OTMs?

Other-Than-Municipal Community (OTM) public water systems are not owned by a government or municipality and serve groups of 25 or more year-round residents. OTMs can include mobile home parks, apartment buildings and condominium associations that are not on city or municipal water.

What are nonprofit NNs?

Non-Transient Non-Community (NN) public water systems are nonresidential and regularly serve groups of at least 25 of the same people over six months of the year. NNs can include schools and daycare centers that are not on city or municipal water. A nonprofit NN is a government entity or an organization that is described under section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) or 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue code, which does not lobby. NNs must be nonprofit in order to qualify.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Urban Wildlife Damage Abatement and Control (UWDAC) Grants

Urban Wildlife Damage Abatement and Control (UWDAC) grants help urban areas develop wildlife plans, implement specific damage abatement and/or control measures for white-tailed deer and/or Canada geese. They are available to any town, city or village in an urban area.

The following criteria will be used to rank applications for grant awards:

• the extent that the application addresses prevention and abatement of nuisance wildlife problems or wildlife damage to human safety, health, property;
• the extent that the application includes long-term solutions to wildlife problems such as habitat modification or adopting a "no wildlife feeding" ordinance;
• the cost-effectiveness of the plan or project;
• the severity of the wildlife damage or nuisance problem addressed by the application; and
• the likelihood of preventing the specified damage or nuisance.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Wisconsin Forest Landowner Grant Program

The Wisconsin Forest Landowner Grant Program (WFLGP) WFLGP program [PDF] is a cost-share program offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It is designed to assist woodland owners in protecting and enhancing their woodlands. This program reimburses woodland owners up to 50% of the cost of eligible practices.

Financial Assistance for:

• Tree planting
• Invasive plant control
• Forest Stewardship Plan development
• Forest improvement practices
• Crop tree release

Priority 1 Practices

• Stewardship plan development
• Tree planting/regeneration
• Forest health and improvement
• Soil and water protection and improvement

Priority 2 Practices

• Wetland and riparian protection
• Wildlife habitat enhancement
• Endangered or threatened resources, rare natural community, historic, cultural and archaeological protection, restoration, enhancement and maintenance

Asthma-Safe Homes Program Environmental Services Training Provider

This Request for Applications (RFA) is for a partner who can provide training and technical assistance on environmental home assessment, repair, and remediation of asthma trigger sources to organizations delivering the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ Asthma-Safe Homes Program environmental services. The total available funds is up to $15,000.

Funding opportunity description

The purpose of this request for applications is to seek a partner who can provide training and technical assistance on environmental home assessment, repair, and remediation of asthma trigger sources to organizations delivering the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ (WI-DHS) Asthma-Safe Homes Program environmental services. This program is a Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Health Services Initiative (HSI) funded through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). The grant is expected to begin on October 1, 2026.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

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.

Land Acquisition & Conservation Easements

(See page 34 of attatched PDF)

Grants under this subprogram provide funding for permanent protection of land associated with lakes and rivers. Grants may be used for the acquisition of property or some property rights (also called easements) to protect lakes, rivers, and their ecosystems in perpetuity. Land acquisition projects are reviewed and processed by local environmental grant specialists. 

Grants may cover 75% of eligible project costs.

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.

Weed Management Area - Private Forest Grant Program (WMA-PFGP)

The WMA-PFGP assists eligible weed management groups (WMG) in addressing invasive plants, both by dealing directly with the invasives and by providing education, information and outreach to others. This is a reimbursement program that covers up to 75% of the eligible costs, 25% match is required.

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.

Targeted Runoff Management Grant Program

The Targeted Runoff Management (TRM) Grant Program offers competitive grants for local governments for the control of pollution that comes from diffuse sources, also called “nonpoint source (NPS)” pollution. Grants from the TRM Program reimburse costs for agricultural or urban runoff management practices in targeted, critical geographic areas with surface water or groundwater quality concerns.

The WDNR Shooting Range Grants support counties, cities, and organizations in constructing outdoor shooting ranges, including essential facilities like backstops, benches, and protective fencing. Grants are reimbursement-based, requiring applicants to cover costs upfront. Eligible entities include governmental agencies and educational institutions. The program prioritizes sustainable practices in managing Wisconsin's natural resources while providing safe outdoor recreational opportunities. Interested applicants should refer to the program guidance for detailed instructions on eligibility and application processes.

The Lakes and Rivers Planning Grants, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, provide vital funding for surface water protection and restoration projects. These grants support a variety of initiatives, including education, ecological assessments, and invasive species control. Whether you're developing organizational capacity or implementing specific projects, this program enables you to enhance Wisconsin's natural resources effectively. For detailed eligibility requirements and application instructions, refer to the Surface Water Grant Program Applicant Guide.

The ATV/UTV Safety Enhancement Funding, provided by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, supports nonprofit organizations in promoting safe and responsible use of all-terrain and utility-terrain vehicles. This biennial funding, with a minimum of $297,000, is aimed at enhancing education and safety measures related to ATV/UTV operations. Eligible organizations must focus on environmental stewardship, comply with relevant laws, and actively support ATV/UTV clubs, thereby fostering community involvement and responsible recreation.

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Jewell Educational Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduate of MHS, Columbus or Marshfield Alternative School who is enrolled at UWSP at Marshfield full-time pursuing an undergraduate degree. Preference to student majoring in business or economics and student who shows academic merit, character, and motivation.

CSA Midwest Region: Beth Dunlap Award

 The Midwestern Region presents The Beth Dunlap Award at the Regional Symposium. The award will be offered to a person who has made contributions worthy of the highest commendation and the achievements will have continued importance. Beth Dunlap was one of the founding members of the Midwestern Region. A fashion illustrator and artist, she passed away in 2009.

HOLES FORE HOPE/Minnesota PGA Associate Scholarship Program

The HOLES FORE HOPE/Minnesota PGA Associate Scholarship program is designed to award scholarships to Associates of the Minnesota PGA Section. Holes Fore Hope has committed funds to help Section Associates offset the cost of the PGA of America Associate Program. The amount of the scholarship(s) is/are determined by the availability of funds. Payments will be made to the Associate upon completion of the Level they are completing. This year, Holes Fore Hope and the Assistants' Chapter Board will oversee both the application review and award selection process.

The Minnesota Section PGA, which covers the areas of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and a small portion of Wisconsin, consists of over 100 Associate members annually. The Minnesota Section PGA is mandated not to discriminate according to federal and state statutes. The final selection process will be made by the Minnesota Section PGA Board of Directors. No announcements will be made before the applicants receive notification from the Minnesota Section PGA. If additional funds become available, the Board may grant additional scholarships to worthy applicants.

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.

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.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) - WI

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

Wisconsin Humanities Council

Established in 1972 as an independent affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, Wisconsin Humanities is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization governed by a volunteer board of directors who come from across the state.

Mission Statement: Wisconsin Humanities strengthens our democracy through educational and cultural programs that build connections and understanding among people of all backgrounds and beliefs throughout the state.

Grants for Humanities Programs

Wisconsin Humanities awards grants to support locally-initiated public humanities programs. Grants for humanities programs are awarded to encourage greater public participation in humanities programming, spark imagination, and promote thoughtful conversation across the state. We especially encourage organizations in underserved communities to apply.

Major Grants

Major Grants (with budget requests of $2,001 - $10,000) are awarded three times per year. Award decisions are made about two months after the deadline. The online application opens after the previous deadline closes.

What is a humanities program?

Humanities programs should be reflective experiences that engage the public. Programs can take many forms including exhibitions, performances, community discussions, guest speakers, workshops, oral history projects, panels, town halls, films, and more. Creativity is encouraged!

The Hickory Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in Wisconsin and South Carolina. Funding supports capital campaigns, new programs, general operating support, and social entrepreneurship. Grants under $5,000 require a Letter of Inquiry, while larger grants require both a Letter of Inquiry and a full application. Notably, funds are not allocated for endowments, individual grants, lobbying, scholarships, or medical research.