Best Grants for Preschools in Wisconsin

​Folk Arts Apprenticeship Program - WI

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeships are designed to strengthen and encourage the continuity of Wisconsin's diverse cultural traditions by supporting exemplary traditional artists and culture bearers in passing their skills and knowledge on to committed and talented apprentices.

Any form of traditional art - from basketry to old time music, from beadwork to ethnic dance and singing, from instrument building to traditional foodways - as carried on by members of Wisconsin's various cultural groups, is eligible. These cultural groups are communities that emerge from shared ethnicity, language, religion, occupation, recreational pursuit, or geographic region. Priority will be given to instruction in art forms that are in danger of being lost or that help to preserve an endangered language. Both the instructing artist and apprentice should be committed to preserving and advancing the art form in their shared community.

Grant Amounts

Maximum awards are $3,500 to the instructing artist or a fiscal receiver*. Successful applicants may use the apprenticeship award to help cover the costs of the instructing artist’s fee, the supplies and materials needed during the apprenticeship, and in some cases, travel expenses.​

The Herb Kohl Philanthropies Homegrown Grants support local initiatives aimed at strengthening communities in Wisconsin. These grants are designed for organizations that empower children and youth, promote financial stability, and provide essential resources. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with federal tax-exempt status that actively engage with their communities. The program emphasizes innovative solutions to local needs, ensuring funds are used effectively to enhance well-being and skills. Collaboration with local partners is encouraged to maximize impact.

Wisconsin Department of Justice

​​​​​The Wisconsin Department of Justice (Wisconsin DOJ) is led by the attorney general, a constitutional officer who is elected by partisan ballot to a four-year term. Public safety is the core of Wisconsin DOJ's mission. The main duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Providing legal advice and representation for the State of Wisconsin
• Investigating crimes that are statewide in nature, importance, or influence
• Providing technical assistance and training to law enforcement officers and prosecutors
• Assisting victims of crime in exercising their rights and accessing services
• Providing forensic analysis of evidence in criminal cases
• Promoting safe school environment​s​

Sexual Assault Victim Services (SAVS) Grant Program

Program Goal

The goal of the SAVS Grant Program is to develop, expand, enhance, and/or support comprehensive sexual assault victim services so they are available to victims of sexual assault regardless of where they reside in Wisconsin. 

Core Services

The SAVS legislation provides a brief list of services that award recipients must provide or propose to provide, and statistical information that OCVS is mandated to collect from grantees. Statistical information reflects the core services.

• 24 Hour Crisis Response
• Personal Advocacy
• Systems Advocacy
• Information and Referral
• Support Groups
• Accessible Services
• Community Outreach and Prevention Education

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Mission Statement: The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) ensures safe, reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible utility services and equitable access to telecommunications and broadband services.

State Broadband Expansion Grants

The purpose of the Broadband Expansion Grant (BBEG) Program is to encourage the deployment of advanced telecommunications capability in unserved areas of the state. This state program was established in 2014 and follows statutory requirements set forth in Wis. Stat. § 196.504.

Successful applicants will demonstrate a clear and achievable plan to improve broadband communications services in one or more unserved areas in the state.

Transforming Maternal Health: Third-Party Administrator to Manage Disbursement and Oversight of Provider Infrastructure Payments

Overview

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is a recipient of a cooperative agreement through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for a 10-year service delivery and payment model designed to improve maternal health outcomes for people enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model will test whether targeted technical (TA) assistance, coupled with payment and delivery system reforms, can drive a whole-person care-delivery approach to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care while reducing Medicaid and CHIP program expenditures. DHS is seeking a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) to manage the disbursement and oversight of Provider Infrastructure Payments (PIPs) under the CMS Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model. The purpose of the TMaH model is to expand access to maternal health care and improve maternal health outcomes. These payments support care delivery transformation for hospitals, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Rural Health Clinics (RHCs), and a broader "Maternal Health Care Team.” The effective date of the agreement awarded under this funding opportunity will be June 15, 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.

County Conservation AIDS

County conservation grants provide financial assistance to enhance county/tribal fish and wildlife programs.

This Fish and Wildlife Management Grant Program was created to assist counties in the improvement of the fish and wildlife resources. The fund was established by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1965 as an alternative to bounty payments on coyote, foxes and bobcats. Every year since the bounty program was canceled, a state allocation equal to the average annual bounty payment has been earmarked as matching money for a growing list of county-sponsored fish and wildlife habitat projects.

After the state budget is approved, funds are allocated to each county in proportion to the ratio of the size of each county to the total area of the state.

The Wetland Restoration Incentives Grant, funded by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, offers $10,000 incentives for projects enhancing or restoring wetlands. Grantees must have completed a comprehensive land use plan that demonstrates a connection to lakes. This initiative directly supports the preservation of Wisconsin's natural resources, including surface water management and ecological health. By promoting sustainable practices, it aims to foster community engagement and environmental stewardship while addressing the challenges of wetland degradation.

The Comprehensive Management Planning for Lakes & Watersheds Grant, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance waterbody management through strategic planning. This grant supports projects that analyze watersheds to set goals for improving and protecting natural resources. Funding is available for creating new management plans or updating existing ones, facilitating informed decisions to address ecological challenges and promote sustainable practices in local communities.

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.

Guidelines for the Snowmobile Trail Aids Program

Introduction

The snowmobile grant program was created with the passage of Chapter 394 Laws of 1970. The Department of Natural Resources was authorized to administer a grant program for the acquisition, development, insurance and maintenance of public snowmobile trails. A Governor's Snowmobile Recreation Council consisting of 15 members was created to advise the Department on matters relating to the administration of the program.

Through the efforts of the Snowmobile Recreation Council, the Department and organized snowmobile clubs, a number of changes and additions have been made to the original legislation. These changes have resulted in a program that fosters a safe, well-maintained snowmobile trail system throughout Wisconsin and effective enforcement and safety programs for all enthusiasts.

The purpose of this guide is to outline the requirements of the components of Wisconsin's snowmobile grant programs.

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.

Dam Removal Grant Program

Eligibility & Purpose:

Any county, city, village, town, tribe, public inland lake protection and rehabilitation district or person who owns the dam may apply. Other entities may apply as the authorized representative of the actual dam owner if the dam owner is willing to allow their dam to be removed. Dam removal grant funds cover costs directly related to planning for the actual removal, implementing the dam removal and the restoration of the impoundment.

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.

County Forest Wildlife Habitat Grant

Eligibility & Purpose:

Funds are available to finance county forest wildlife habitat management with emphasis on forest wildlife habitat improvement, inventories and wildlife education. Funding is available at $.10/acre for counties that have lands in the county forest program

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.

County Forest Administration

Eligibility & Purpose:

Any county employing a professional forester in the capacity of county forest administrator or assistant county forest administrator can receive up to 50 percent of its employee's annual salary and fringe benefit costs. 

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.

The Wisconsin Recycling Grant Program, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, offers financial support to cities, towns, villages, counties, tribes, and solid waste management systems. This initiative aims to enhance residential recycling and yard waste programs by covering essential costs for managing recyclable materials, including paper, plastics, and glass. By fostering effective recycling systems, the program seeks to improve material recovery and promote sustainable waste management practices throughout Wisconsin.

The Greater Lake Superior Foundation Grant Program provides $2000 grants annually to support graduate research on Coaster Brook Trout in Lake Superior and its tributaries. Eligible applicants must be graduate students from accredited universities in Michigan, Minnesota, Ontario, or Wisconsin, focusing on Fisheries Management, Limnology, Ecology, or Biology. Research topics include habitat requirements, migratory behavior, and management activities. Recipients must submit a project summary for publication on the GLSF website.

The North Central Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes one graduate student from each of the Entomological Society of America's six branches. This award promotes graduate-level entomology and encourages attendance at the ESA Annual Meeting. Benefits include an all-expense-paid trip to the national meeting, a $500 cash prize, and a certificate presented during the meeting. Eligibility includes current enrollment in a graduate entomology program or recent graduation.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

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.

Recreational Trails Program (RTP)

This is a federal program administered in most states. Municipal governments and incorporated organizations are eligible to receive reimbursement for the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and non-motorized recreational trail uses.

Eligible sponsors may be reimbursed for up to 80% of eligible project costs. Funds from this program may be used in conjunction with funds from other state grant programs that also fund trail projects.

The RTP legislation prohibits using RTP funds for condemnation of any kind of interest in property. An RTP project may be located on land condemned with funds from other sources. However, to be consistent with the RTP legislation, it is not permissible to use the value of condemned land toward the match requirement for an RTP project.

The DNR works in partnership with the National Park Services to expand outdoor recreation through the federally funded Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant program. LWCF grants provide local units of governments, tribes, and school districts opportunities to receive grants for outdoor recreation activities. 

The EDA Chicago FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development through comprehensive planning and technical assistance. By supporting the development and implementation of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), EDA empowers designated organizations, including Indian Tribes, to create jobs and foster economic resilience in distressed areas. This initiative focuses on strategic investments to facilitate effective economic development practices, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity across regions.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

About OEI

Vision

Our vision is that Wisconsin homes, businesses, and vehicles are powered with clean, efficient, reliable energy that creates jobs and grows our economy in an equitable manner where all can share in the benefits.

Mission

Developing Wisconsin's energy landscape to be secure, reliable, environmentally responsible, and growing the state's economy for all. 

Energy Innovation Grant Program

Overview

The Energy Innovation Grant Program (EIGP) supports a wide variety of energy projects related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy storage, energy planning, and more.

For each grant round, the Commission chooses eligible activities based on its energy priorities, emerging trends, and public input. 

The KCF Scholarships - Rizzo Family Memorial Scholarships Fund, managed by the Kenosha Community Foundation, offers a one-time award of $1,000 to local students pursuing higher education in Wisconsin. Eligible applicants include high school seniors or current students with a minimum GPA of 3.0, focusing on health-related fields. This scholarship aims to support academic advancement and foster community growth by investing in the education of future healthcare professionals.