Best Health and Medical Grants in Wisconsin

The A. O. Smith Foundation, established in 1955, provides grants to support charitable, educational, and human services organizations primarily in communities where A. O. Smith Corporation operates. With a mission focused on enhancing community well-being, the Foundation promotes education, arts, culture, and health initiatives. It encourages employees to engage in volunteerism, fostering a culture of community involvement. Notably, the Foundation does not fund politically active organizations or those primarily aiming to influence legislation.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

United Way St. Croix & Red Cedar Valleys 

The United Way St. Croix & Red Cedar Valleys works to improve the health, education, and financial stability of individuals and families across Western Wisconsin, serving Burnett, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix Counties. Guided by a vision that all residents lead healthy lives, receive quality education, and achieve financial security, the organization invests in community-driven solutions that address local needs. Funding decisions are made locally and aligned with a Community Care agenda focused on three priority areas: education, financial stability, and health. United Way partners with nonprofit agencies, schools, county human services, faith-based organizations, and emergency service providers to deliver measurable outcomes. Through an annual citizen review process, community members help evaluate funding requests and recommend allocations, ensuring accountability and impact. The organization supports programs that demonstrate results and advance long-term community well-being.

John Coughlin Hope Fund (JCHF) 

The John Coughlin Hope Fund (JCHF) provides compassionate financial support to individuals and families facing urgent needs when no other resources are available. UW Valleys offer grants to help cover essential expenses such as rent, security deposits, mortgage payments, utility bills, medical costs, transportation (including car repairs), and other critical necessities.

JCHF works in close partnership with local community agencies to identify those experiencing short-term financial crises. Together, we ensure all available community resources are explored, while stepping in with direct support when gaps remain.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Valero Energy Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in communities where Valero operates. With a focus on basic needs, health care, education, and civic initiatives, the foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. In 2019, it provided approximately $40 million to support disadvantaged children and families, emphasizing a commitment to corporate citizenship and community well-being.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Wisconsin provides essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas. It supports public bodies, non-profits, and tribes in purchasing, constructing, and improving facilities that serve local communities. Projects eligible for funding must be located in areas with populations under 20,000 and meet specific income criteria. The program aims to enhance community services such as healthcare, safety, education, and public utilities, ensuring sustainable development in rural settings.

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.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Wisconsin Medical Society Foundation is committed to enhancing health in Wisconsin by funding medical education and public health initiatives. Established in 1955, it supports physician-led programs that address health disparities, improve access to mental health services, and promote disease prevention. Preference is given to evidence-based projects with measurable outcomes that foster health equity. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity that prioritizes strategic, high-impact initiatives to benefit the community.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Community Capacity Grant Program, established by the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, aims to support Wisconsin-based organizations dedicated to advancing health equity and addressing social determinants of health. With grants of up to $20,000, this initiative encourages innovative projects that enhance organizational capacity without covering core operating expenses. By fostering partnerships and mentorship, the program seeks to empower smaller nonprofits to effectively achieve their missions and improve community health outcomes.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Coordinating Care Across Wisconsin: Innovating Healthcare Through Partnership Grants

This five-year grant funding opportunity is intended to catalyze innovative healthcare service models through partnerships across communities, systems, and sectors in rural Wisconsin. Through these grants, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) aims to address those points in a care continuum where community members are most likely to experience barriers to health-related services or fall out of care, and to directly address fragmented systems of care. Applicants may apply to multiple Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funding opportunities for which their organizations are eligible.Application Phases

Applications for funding will be released in two distinct phases:

• Phase 1: Planning grant.
  • Applicants will submit a letter of application for an initial six-month planning or pilot grant.
  • The planning period will provide an opportunity for awardees to receive technical assistance for application development, build a strong foundation for program implementation, and develop strong partnership models.
  • We recognize that programs may be at different stages of development, from initial idea generation to ready-to-go projects and partnerships.
  • We welcome a range of planning period activities.
• Phase 2: Full award.
  • Planning grant awardees will be eligible to submit an application for a full award covering the remaining four-year grant period.
  • The full application will be released in February 2027.
  •  Only recipients of an approved letter of application will be eligible to apply for the full award.
  • Full award applications should reflect and build on the work done during the planning period and provide more in-depth program designs.

Through this funding opportunity, DHS aims to address these challenges by leveraging the resources and innovation within Wisconsin’s rural communities. This funding will ensure that healthcare services and resources can be delivered in the most efficient, accessible, and high-quality manner possible.

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.

With a mission to support broad charitable purposes, Burmester Charitable Trust provides Wisconsin 501(c)(3) organizations with funding for health and medical research alongside other program areas. Nonprofit health and medical providers, research institutions, and related organizations in Wisconsin may be eligible if they meet the foundation’s charitable and geographic priorities.

The Health Information Outreach Award, funded by the National Library of Medicine, aims to enhance access to essential health information for underrepresented populations and healthcare professionals. This initiative focuses on improving health literacy and equity through diverse projects, including training, technology access, and community outreach. Eligible organizations from select Midwestern states can apply, prioritizing innovative solutions that address health disparities and promote informed health decisions among vulnerable communities.

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.

The Roger W. and Mary C. Lyons Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable organizations dedicated to aiding underprivileged children in Wisconsin. This grant focuses on health and medical research, as well as human and social services. To be eligible, organizations must be classified as 501(c)(3) nonprofits by the IRS. Notably, individuals cannot apply for this grant, ensuring that funding is directed solely towards established charitable entities.

EMS Leave Behind Program: Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strip Kits

The Division of Care and Treatment Services is providing fentanyl and xylazine test strip kits kits to Wisconsin EMS agencies operating leave behind programs.

Program overview

Drug checking technologies like fentanyl and xylazine test strip kits are an evidence-based method to prevent drug overdose deaths by educating people about the substances they are using.

Leave behind programs allow EMS professionals to share (“leave behind”) overdose prevention tools and resources with patients and/or their social networks (family, friends, roommates, etc.) at the scene of care or after a hospital transport. Leave behind programs also offer opportunities to provide connections to local treatment providers and overdose prevention organizations. This model presents an opportunity to provide the supplies and support people who use substances need to prevent and reduce health and safety complications.

EMS agencies interested in distributing fentanyl and/or xylazine test strip kits to community members as part of a leave behind program are invited to complete the application form linked in the "solicitation links" section to be considered for this DHS EMS Leave Behind Program.

Applicants accepted into this DHS EMS Leave Behind Program will receive test strip kits at no cost.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Routine Immunization Through Community Engagement (RICE) 4.0 Grant, funded by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, aims to strengthen vaccination efforts in Wisconsin. This program supports community organizations in building a network of vaccinators, enhancing vaccine equity, and funding culturally relevant research. With a maximum award of $40,000, it seeks to empower communities to overcome barriers and promote confidence in vaccines, ultimately reducing health disparities for both pediatric and adult populations.