Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Wisconsin

The Advanced Practice Clinician (NP or PA) Fellowship Program at Aspirus Health offers a unique 6-month rotation designed for new graduates to excel in hospital medicine. Aspirus Health, a nonprofit system located in Wisconsin and serving parts of Minnesota and Michigan, operates 18 hospitals and numerous outpatient locations. With a dedicated team of nearly 14,000, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice clinicians, this fellowship is also open to experienced APCs transitioning between departments.

The Physician and Advanced Practice Clinician Fellowship Program at Aspirus Wausau Hospital offers a 12-month, full-time opportunity for recent family medicine graduates and practicing physicians. This program aims to enhance skills in hospital medicine, with flexible start dates and two fellowship spots available annually. Aspirus Health, a nonprofit health system in Wisconsin, operates multiple facilities and employs a large team of healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive training and support for fellows.

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.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The PFund Foundation offers a Sponsorship Fund for events primarily serving LGBTQ+ communities in the upper Midwest. With sponsorship amounts ranging from $500 to $1,000, organizations can apply once per calendar year. Applications must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the event and include information on the event's impact and how funds will be used. PFund aims to foster equity and strengthen networks within its focus areas.

The High Priority HIV and Substance Use Research funding opportunity aims to support innovative research that addresses the intersection of HIV and substance use. Researchers are encouraged to submit proposals that include a detailed research plan and preliminary data, exploring new avenues for prevention, treatment, and potential cures for HIV among people who use drugs. Applications are due by 5 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior.

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.

The WDA Foundation Annual Grant Program provides financial support to non-profit programs that enhance oral health for low-income residents in Wisconsin. Applications are open to 501(c)(3) organizations operating within the state, focusing on increasing access to dental care. The program aims to foster volunteerism and educate communities about oral health. Notably, funding excludes individuals and certain expenses, ensuring resources are dedicated to direct support of oral health 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.

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.

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 Chicago Board of Trade Foundation Grant offers funding to non-profit organizations in the Chicago area, focusing on initiatives that assist children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and must not discriminate based on race, religion, or sexual orientation. Applications will be assessed based on program effectiveness, community impact, and organizational management. The foundation does not fund individuals, political candidates, or organizations without tax-exempt status.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

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.

About Us

The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to inspire travelers to visit Wisconsin. As Wisconsin’s smallest cabinet-level state agency, in terms of budget and staff, the Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact for Wisconsin through tourism.  

The Department of Tourism markets Wisconsin as a premier travel destination under the Travel Wisconsin brand. We are also home to the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation, Meet in Wisconsin, Sports Wisconsin, Film Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Arts Board. Together, we uplift a robust tourism economy that enriches the lives of every Wisconsinite.

Meetings Mean Business Grant

The Meetings Mean Business (MMB) grant program helps destinations by providing financial assistance for facility costs or host destination expenses as you bid for regional and national meetings or conventions.

Why You Should Apply

• Attracting meetings and conventions generates significant economic impact from additional room nights and visitor spending.
• Hosting a successful regional or national conference can raise a destination’s profile among meeting and event planners, therefore generating more meeting and event sales.
• Securing grant funding for a bid can encourage further sponsorship and partnerships for the convention in your destination.
• Destination can bid on a variety of different kinds of meetings and conventions that best fit their business model, including but not limited to associations and organization meetings, trade shows, reunions, educational or social meetings.

The purpose of the fund is to assist destinations as they bid for national or Midwest regional meetings and conventions that generate hotel overnights and a significant economic impact for the area where they’ll be held. Such meetings may be held by a variety of different kinds of businesses, trade shows organizations, groups, etc. The purpose is to bring meetings or conventions into the state, but not to fund existing in-state events that are regularly scheduled or which routinely rotate to destinations within the state. 

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The F26AS00104 State ANS Management Plan 2026 aims to combat aquatic nuisance species through pre-proposals followed by full applications. Managed by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, this initiative requires a 25% cost-share and limits administrative costs to 5%. Applications are due by October 14, 2026, though the funding opportunity closes on December 16, 2026. The plan is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting a coordinated national approach to invasive species management.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is funding recovery housing for transition-aged adults (18-24) with opioid and stimulant use disorders. This initiative supports the establishment of recovery residences that provide essential peer support and care coordination, facilitating the transition to adulthood. The program aims to educate and develop a recovery housing model as part of an integrated continuum of care, addressing service gaps and enhancing support for young adults in Wisconsin.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Wisconsin provide essential funding for organizations to assist low-income families in constructing their own homes. This program empowers groups of very-low- and low-income individuals to work together, significantly reducing housing costs through shared labor. Eligible applicants include government non-profits and federally-recognized tribes, while ineligible costs include hiring contractors and purchasing materials. This initiative fosters community engagement and self-sufficiency in rural areas.

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 Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.

The Sergeant John Basilone Memorial Graduate Scholarship, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two awards of $3,000 each for graduate students of Italian descent. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time in accredited programs, and reside in specified states. The scholarship supports students pursuing graduate studies in the academic year 2026-2027. UNICO promotes Italian American heritage and community service, making this scholarship a valuable opportunity for deserving students.

The UNICO Foundation offers the Dr. Benjamin Cottone Memorial Scholarship, providing $5,000 to support a U.S. citizen of Italian descent pursuing a medical degree. Eligible candidates must be seniors at accredited colleges or medical schools, with proof of enrollment required. This scholarship not only aids education but also honors the foundation's commitment to community service and heritage, reflecting the core values of the Italian American community.