Best Grants for Preschools in Wisconsin

The Vineyard Family Foundation

The Vineyard Family Foundation is the product of decades of work across three generations and five states. Having enjoyed the benefits of our hard work and community patronage, the Vineyard family has chosen to provide to others what so many have graciously provided to us. 

What Sets Us Apart

The Vineyard family has always been committed to its communities. Whether supporting Boys & Girls Clubs, pediatric hospitals, the Ronald McDonald House, arts organizations, or youth recreation leagues, the family has taken a great interest in the care, health, and education of children and the families that nurture them. We take great pride in personally administering our Foundation’s charitable giving, resulting in fewer expenses and more funding for those organizations aligned with the Foundation’s purpose.

Grants

• Supporting Our Communities and Their Families
• Working Towards the Health, Education, and Overall Well-Being of Parents and Their Children

You are steps away from creating an opportunity to receive full or partial funding of your charitable organization. So that you use your time wisely, we offer the following advice for your efforts:

• As a family foundation, we are prohibited from funding individuals or any entity that is not an IRS-recognized Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity or a Section 509(a)(1), (2), or (3) support organization. Thus, while we cannot award a scholarship to an individual, we can fund a 501(c)(3) charity that provides such scholarships.

• If you qualify as a Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization or a support organization pursuant to Section 509(a)(1-3), we will need the IRS Determination Letter confirming as much, as well as a statement signed by your organization’s President or Chief Executive Officer verifying that your organization’s purposes, structure, and operations have not changed substantially since the date of the IRS’s Determination Letter.

• If you are a “supporting organization” under IRS Code section 509(a)(1-3), please provide a list of the public charities that you support. Please also advise whether you are a Type I, Type II, or Type III supporting organization. If you are a Type III supporting organization, please advise whether you are “functionally integrated” with your supported public charity and provide an explanation of that relationship.

Supported Charities

The Vineyard family has historically provided funding for family-related charities such as the Ronald McDonald House, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, pediatric hospitals, autism-related organizations, and youth recreational leagues. The Foundation looks forward to continuing this support and extending itself to educational, research, and cultural experiences that focus on the needs of children and their parents.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

The CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

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 MRC/SOT Early Career Toxicologist Award, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes an outstanding Midwest toxicologist with up to 10 years of experience. This prestigious award honors candidates actively contributing to the field or recently retired, showcasing their unique research achievements and teaching proficiency. Winners receive an engraved plaque and an honorarium, celebrating their commitment to advancing toxicology and enhancing human, animal, and environmental health.

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.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The MRC/SOT Young Investigator Award, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes outstanding undergraduate and graduate research proposals at the MRC/SOT Spring meeting. Eligible students submit proposals alongside a reference letter. Awardees present their research at the Annual Meeting and receive funding to support their educational endeavors in toxicology, including travel to conferences and research-related expenses. This initiative promotes educational growth and scientific advancement in the field of toxicology.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The Amy Kerwin-Kobishop Accounting Scholarship, administered by Scholarship America Inc, supports high school seniors and current college students pursuing full-time undergraduate studies in Accounting or Finance at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse during the 2026-2027 academic year. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship aims to reduce financial barriers to education, promoting academic success for underrepresented and underserved students.

The Elam Baer and Janis Clay Epilepsy Scholarship, administered by Scholarship America, aims to eliminate financial barriers for students with epilepsy. This scholarship is open to residents of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, or Iowa, who are high school seniors or current college students. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and plan to enroll in accredited institutions. The program reflects a commitment to accessibility and support for underrepresented students.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Collaborative Health Sciences Program RFP by the University of Wisconsin aims to fund innovative research addressing complex health issues in Wisconsin. With a maximum award of $600,000 over three years, this initiative encourages interdisciplinary teams to explore new directions in health research. Eligible proposals should demonstrate potential for additional funding and focus on improving health equity, addressing diseases, clinical knowledge, and innovative training for health professionals, while ensuring collaboration among diverse disciplines.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Therapy Sciences, provided by the UNICO Foundation, awards two scholarships valued at $2,500 each to full-time students pursuing degrees in Therapy Sciences, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, and speech-language pathology. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship promotes educational advancement within the community.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Special Education, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for U.S. students pursuing degrees in Special Education. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to continue their studies into the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship supports students with various disabilities, ensuring that education is accessible and equitable for all.

The Robert J. Tarte Scholarship for Italian Studies, offered by the UNICO Foundation, supports students of Italian descent pursuing a major or minor in Italian Studies or Language. Valued at $1,000, this scholarship is awarded to full-time undergraduate students attending accredited institutions in the U.S. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies through the 2026-2027 academic year, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Guglielmo Marconi Engineering Scholarship, offered by UNICO Foundation, provides $1,250 to students of Italian descent pursuing engineering degrees in various disciplines. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time in accredited programs, and maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. This scholarship not only supports academic achievement but also promotes the heritage and contributions of the Italian American community, continuing UNICO's legacy of service and support.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Kohler Foundation Grant focuses on preserving art environments and cultural heritage in Wisconsin and beyond. Grants up to $10,000 support innovative projects by tax-exempt public charities and institutions. With a preference for Sheboygan County, the Foundation encourages STEAM initiatives and programs enhancing access to the arts. Recent preservation efforts include notable sites like the Garden of Eden sculpture park and Pasaquan. The Foundation believes in impactful investments that foster lasting community benefits.

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.

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.

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.

Boat Enforcement Patrol Grants

This grant is issued to Wisconsin counties or municipalities that participate in boating enforcement efforts. Eligible agencies may receive law enforcement aids for up to 75% of their net costs.

Every 2 years, a patrol representative must attend a water safety patrol biennial workshop, date to be scheduled and notice sent out by the Bureau of Law Enforcement. Attendance is limited to 2 participants per patrol. At least one attendee must be an active officer of the patrol.

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.

Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program

The purpose of BIG is to construct, renovate and maintain boating infrastructure facilities for transient recreational vessels at least 26 feet long.

Project Cost

• Construction, renovation and maintenance of boating infrastructure tie-up facilities, solely for transient recreational vessels 26 feet or more in length. Does not include: Commercial vessels, cruise ships, dive boats, ferries and vessels that operate permanently from the proposed project location.
• Produce information and education materials specific to BIG or BIG funded projects (i.e. charts, cruising guides, and brochures).

Special Conditions or Requirements

• Facilities constructed, operated or maintained with grant funds must offer reasonable access for all transient recreational vessels for the full period of their useful life.
• Facilities must be open to the public during reasonable time periods.
• Entities may charge fees. Fees must be comparable to the prevailing rate in the area.
• New construction and renovations must be designed to last throughout its useful life.
• BIG grants require a minimum of 25% matching funds, federal share not to exceed 75% total costs.

The Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program has two Tiers: Tier 1 - State; and Tier 2 - National

Tier 1 - State

Provides up to $300,000 per year to the state of Wisconsin. Projects are competitively ranked within the state.