Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Wisconsin

The Gun Violence Prevention & Justice Reform Grant by The Joyce Foundation aims to create safer communities in the Great Lakes region. It focuses on reducing gun violence, addressing racial disparities in the justice system, and promoting violence intervention strategies. The foundation invites innovative proposals that support these goals, emphasizing research, policy advocacy, and community engagement to effectively address the challenges of gun violence and promote racial equity.

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.

The Bisexual+ Fund Grant, offered by the PFund Foundation, supports organizations that promote equity for bisexual+ individuals in the upper Midwest, including Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Grants range from $1,500 to $3,000 for general operating support, aiming to empower bisexual-led initiatives. Applications will open in late fall 2025, and eligible organizations must primarily serve LGBTQ+ populations and demonstrate commitment to bisexual+ communities.

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.

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!

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Computer Science Studies, awarded by the UNICO Foundation, offers four scholarships of $1,000 each to full-time students pursuing a degree in Computer Science at accredited U.S. colleges. Eligible applicants must reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor, be U.S. citizens aged 18 or older, and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Idle Sites Redevelopment Program by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) aims to rejuvenate abandoned or underused sites in Wisconsin. This program offers grants to local governments for redevelopment efforts, enhancing local economies and community quality of life. Eligible projects can utilize funds for demolition, environmental remediation, and infrastructure improvements, with a focus on transforming blighted properties into valuable community assets. Preference is given to projects in high-density urban areas.

The Environmental Programming Grant supports organizations in Cedar Grove, Belgium, Northern Ozaukee, Oostburg, and Random Lake, Wisconsin, focusing on water-related programs and animal rehabilitation. Grants can be matching, special projects, endowments, capital projects, or general operations. Eligible organizations must be local, 501(c)(3) certified, and spend 25% or less on administrative costs. The Bruce Krier Charitable Foundation Inc prioritizes impactful, community-driven initiatives.

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

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 WAB Creation and Presentation Grant provides vital support to established nonprofit arts organizations in Wisconsin that create or present significant arts programming. This grant emphasizes community impact and artistic quality, requiring applicants to demonstrate a history of consistent artistic activities and community engagement. Eligible organizations must be incorporated in Wisconsin, hold 501(c)(3) status, and provide a dollar-for-dollar match of funding. This multi-year grant program facilitates ongoing artistic development while ensuring accountability.

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 Needmor Fund for Social Justice aims to promote social justice by supporting community organizing efforts in the Midwest. With a focus on low- and moderate-income communities, BIPOC groups, and other marginalized populations, the fund provides grants for up to three years to organizations committed to long-term empowerment and advocacy. The initiative seeks to foster inclusive participation in democracy, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping policies affecting their lives.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

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.

Who We Are

Advancing Wisconsin to be the healthiest state in the nation

AHW provides funding and resources to researchers, organizations, and communities devoted to improving the health of the people of Wisconsin.

Call for Applications: MCW Post-Doctoral Researcher Seed Grants

Funding Summary

AHW’s Call for Applications: MCW Post-Doctoral Researcher Seed Grants allows eligible MCW Post-Doctoral Researchers and their faculty supervisor to test innovative ideas to address Wisconsin’s leading health challenges and enhance Wisconsin’s health workforce equipped to conduct valuable research to advance health. Successful seed projects will support the post-doctoral researcher in building a foundation for future research independence and career development beyond the project period. Applicants may request up to $50,000 for projects completed within a 12-month period, beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

The AROW Global Corporation Engineering Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, awards two $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors and college students pursuing degrees in engineering. This initiative aims to support the educational aspirations of students in central Wisconsin, particularly family members of AROW employees or qualified individuals. Each year, the foundation distributes over $300,000 in scholarships to enhance the educational landscape in the region.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The Wisconsin Aviation Hall of Fame Scholarships, including the Thiessen Field Scholarship, aim to support Wisconsin residents pursuing careers in aviation or aerospace. Established in 2005 by Jerome Thiessen, these scholarships total over $300,000 annually, benefiting more than 200 students. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, a passion for aviation, and be enrolled in an aviation program in Wisconsin. The scholarships encourage students with lower GPAs or financial challenges to apply.

The Curt Marzolf Memorial Scholarship, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, offers financial assistance to graduating seniors from Monroe, Argyle, Juda, or South Wayne high schools pursuing engineering studies at accredited colleges. This scholarship aims to support students who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and encourages applicants with interests in hunting, fishing, or related fields, although this is not a requirement. It reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in Southern Wisconsin.

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 Wisconsin Aviation Hall of Fame Scholarships, including the Jeff Baum Aviation Business & Jim Quinn Flight School Scholarship, provide essential financial support to Wisconsin residents pursuing careers in aviation or aerospace. With over $300,000 awarded annually, these scholarships empower students from diverse educational backgrounds to achieve their goals. Established to honor aviation leaders, these scholarships not only aid in education but also promote community engagement and excellence in the aviation field.

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.