Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation offers Youth Program Grants to support initiatives that enhance youth development in Winnebago County. These grants prioritize projects that promote environmental education, establish new services for youth, strengthen existing programs, and provide adaptive equipment for children with disabilities. Eligible organizations include public charities and government agencies, while individuals and private schools are ineligible. The foundation aims to create better opportunities for children through these funding efforts.

The American Heart Association is inviting proposals for research on the effects of GLP-1 and GIP agonists in individuals with cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic diseases. This initiative aims to explore how these medications can alleviate the CKM burden. Researchers with expertise in causal inference, machine learning, and cardiovascular research are encouraged to apply, particularly those working in multidisciplinary teams and leveraging various data sources.

The National Institute of Mental Health is inviting research applications for the AIDS Research Center program, which includes Developmental Centers and full Research Centers. This initiative aims to enhance interdisciplinary HIV/AIDS research through collaboration and innovative approaches across various scientific domains. The program emphasizes alignment with national strategies and encourages applications from teams skilled in fostering partnerships with diverse stakeholders. Although applications are currently not being solicited, this notice allows potential applicants time to prepare strong proposals.

The CDC's Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program for States aims to enhance public health approaches to suicide prevention across the U.S. By targeting high-risk groups, such as veterans and rural populations, the program utilizes data to identify prevention areas, assess existing programs, and implement evidence-based strategies. Key outcomes include improved partner engagement and a measurable reduction in suicide rates. This initiative allows potential applicants to prepare by reviewing relevant data and forming strategic partnerships ahead of future opportunities.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance a web-based ordering portal for distributing 1.5 million HIV and STI self-tests to high-burden communities. By optimizing access to these self-tests, the initiative seeks to raise awareness, prevent new infections, and improve the health outcomes of users, thereby contributing to better overall public health and wellbeing.

The Women's Club of Grand Haven Grant, established in 2001, offers scholarships to non-traditional students from the Tri-Cities seeking further education. Funded through community efforts such as an annual Used Book Sale, this grant prioritizes financial need and is open to applicants residing in Northern Ottawa County or those who graduated from local school districts. Preference is given to female applicants aged 21 and older, supporting educational advancement for those whose academic journeys have been interrupted.

The Fund for Lake Michigan Grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the health of Lake Michigan through projects that yield both immediate and long-term benefits. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions focusing on water quality improvement. Grants range from $700,000 to $900,000 quarterly, with priorities on projects that directly impact water quality and promote sustainable practices. This grant fosters economic growth while ensuring the preservation of vital water resources.

The Atlantic Salmon Federation Olin Fellowships support individuals aiming to enhance their knowledge and skills in salmon conservation and management. These fellowships are available annually for various pursuits, including research and graduate studies, without the requirement of being enrolled in a degree program. Eligible applicants must be legal residents of the U.S. or Canada, and the fellowships can be conducted at accredited institutions or active management programs.

The Florence Merriam Bailey Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors outstanding articles published by early career members in AOS journals within the last two years. Awarded annually, it includes a $1,500 cash prize to the lead author. Papers recognized alternate between the journals 'Ornithology' and 'Ornithological Applications'. Nominees must adhere to high ethical standards as outlined in the AOS Code of Conduct.

The AOS-Sponsored Student Memberships provide one year of free membership to students globally interested in ornithology. Awardees gain full access to AOS membership benefits and are encouraged to participate in various opportunities, including the annual meeting and travel grants. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of ornithologists by supporting their academic and professional growth while upholding high ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct.

• Innovative: An approach that brings fresh thinking, tools, or models to homeownership in ways that challenge the status quo and demonstrate a disruptive, future-oriented vision with potential to inspire or shift broader field practice.
• Impactful: A solution with meaningful potential to expand homeownership through knowledge and action, featuring clear and measurable progress indicators that demonstrate capacity to shift trajectories for low- and moderate-income households.
• Bridge-Building: An initiative that effectively connects and unifies a wide range of stakeholders, fostering meaningful collaboration across sectors or perspectives. The strongest submissions will reflect strong community partnerships across the housing ecosystem.
• Durable: A sustainable pathway that addresses root causes of homeownership barriers rather than just symptoms, with compelling evidence of potential to elicit robust support from broad private, philanthropic, and public funding sources over time.

The Katma Award, established by the American Ornithological Society in 2003, honors innovative research that challenges existing theories in avian biology. This award encourages submissions of research articles, commentaries, or short communications published within the last two years. Nominees are expected to uphold high ethical standards, and the award includes a $2,500 prize and a certificate. Ideal submissions include papers authored by one or two researchers, with self-nominations also accepted.

The Little Giraffe Foundation, a national non-profit based in Chicago, provides NICU Support Grants ranging from $100 to $1,000. Since 2011, they have positively impacted countless families by delivering over 32,000 gift bags and funding essential research. These grants aim to enhance the experience for parents and patients in neonatal intensive care units, supporting initiatives like holiday gift bags and resources for bonding with babies. Applications are welcomed from eligible U.S.-based institutions.

The Wesley Lanyon Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors early-career ornithologists for the best integrative avian science review paper published in AOS journals. With a $1,500 honorarium and $1,000 travel stipend, this biennial award encourages doctoral students and recent Ph.D. graduates to contribute novel insights to ornithology. Winners can organize a symposium at the AOS annual meeting, fostering collaboration and advancing research in the field.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California's Innovative Conservation Program (ICP) has funded innovative water savings projects since 2001, with $250,000 available biannually. The program aims to evaluate and demonstrate the reliability of new water-saving technologies. Nearly 400 proposals have sought $36 million in funding. The ICP, supported by multiple agencies, encourages projects that can benefit Southern California's water efficiency, inviting proposals from outside its service area to enhance regional water management.

McCormick & Company, Inc. actively supports charitable contributions through its Charitable Donations Committee (CDC), which prioritizes donations to non-profit organizations that enhance education, health, environment, and culture. The CDC focuses on organizations that benefit communities where McCormick employees live and work, ensuring a positive impact. Eligible groups must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. However, donations are not made to individuals, political organizations, or entities that conflict with corporate values.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Madison Chautauqua Scholarship for the Arts in Memory of Bob Fourhman

Criteria evaluated:

• Letter of recommendation and artwork samples

Required materials:

• Letter of recommendation from a person knowledgeable about your talent and accomplishments in your art form; and
• An uploaded sample of your work (maximum 3 photos or 1 short video/audio clip)

Scholarship amount:

• $1,200 | 1 scholarship

The Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) Capacity Program aims to enhance the capacity of state, territorial, and Tribal entities in the U.S. to implement and sustain AIM Patient Safety Bundles. By promoting evidence-based maternal safety practices, the program strives to improve the quality of maternity care, enhance maternal health outcomes, and significantly reduce preventable maternal mortality and severe morbidity.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part D provides supplemental funding aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and capacity of organizations to deliver high-quality, family-centered HIV care services. This initiative focuses on two key areas: HIV Care Innovation and Infrastructure Development, ensuring improved access to essential services for women, infants, children, and youth affected by HIV.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part B AIDS Drug Assistance Program Training and Technical Assistance aims to enhance the capacity of ADAPs. By providing essential tools and expert guidance, the program seeks to improve health outcomes for individuals living with HIV in an evolving healthcare landscape. This initiative is funded by the US HHS through the Health Resources & Services Administration, ensuring support and resources are effectively allocated to meet the needs of vulnerable populations.

The Friends Foundation for the Aging Grant supports innovative and impactful programs aimed at addressing the needs of older adults, particularly within underserved populations. This Quaker foundation prioritizes collaboration and sustainability in its funding efforts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities focused on enhancing the quality of life for aging individuals. Grants are typically awarded for one year and target organizations that align with the foundation's mission and values.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes outstanding contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Employer Leadership Award. This award honors employers who significantly support SAF members' professional engagement. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary convention registration, and travel expense support. The program aims to celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations in promoting sustainable forestry practices and enhancing professional development, ultimately driving excellence in natural resource management.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is launching a funding opportunity for Exploratory Clinical Trials Grants. This program aims to support innovative clinical trials that enhance the understanding and treatment of arthritis and other musculoskeletal and skin conditions. Research proposals should focus on early-stage trials, including first-in-human studies, dose-finding, and biomarker evaluation. The initiative encourages the translation of promising laboratory findings into effective clinical practices, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The SAF National Awards Program honors exceptional contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Technology Transfer Award. This award recognizes significant achievements in technology transfer, ensuring vital technical information reaches those involved in forestry management. It includes a $1,000 honorarium and other benefits presented at the SAF national convention. Nominees must be active members of the Society of American Foresters and demonstrate leadership and impact in their field.

Carl Hill Memorial Scholarship

Awards:

• One time award of $500.