Best Dane County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The Wahlin Foundation Grant aims to support charitable initiatives in communities near Stoughton Trailers, LLC manufacturing plants. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status can apply, but unsolicited requests may not always be invited to submit a full application. The foundation emphasizes projects that enhance community opportunities, while ensuring that funding does not conflict with the ethical standards of its Board of Directors. This grant fosters local development and enriches lives within the targeted regions.

The Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in south-central and southeastern Wisconsin that promote strong families and healthy children. Each August, eligible organizations can apply for funding to help empower youth to achieve their dreams. This initiative not only strengthens community ties but also fosters a healthier future for generations to come, with award notifications sent out in November.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

With a mission to support bird conservation, The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin provides Dane County, Wisconsin 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities with up to US $3,500 for bird conservation, preservation, and education projects. Eligible projects must serve Driftless Area counties in southwest Wisconsin and may include citizen science initiatives or academic studies focused on birds.

The Health Sciences Scholarship, established in 2000 by Emeritus Professor James Hauxhurst, supports students from the Fox Valley area pursuing health science majors at UW institutions. Awarding $3,000 in total, it is divided into two payments of $1,500 for the fall and spring semesters. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors and continuing college students, with financial need being a consideration. This scholarship aims to foster future leaders in health care for the community.

The Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship offers three $2,500 awards to graduating high school seniors and continuing college students from the Fox Valley area. Eligible students must attend a 2-year or 4-year UW institution full-time and have a minimum GPA of 3.5 for high school seniors or 3.0 for current college students. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing any major while demonstrating community and leadership qualities.

The Invest in Her Future Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, offers a renewable $2,500 award to single mothers in the Fox Valley area attending UW institutions as part-time or full-time students. This initiative supports educational advancement and addresses financial needs, ensuring that recipients can pursue their academic goals. The scholarship emphasizes community impact by fostering the growth and success of families in the region.

The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion grant, funded by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance access to STEM education for underserved communities. This initiative supports schools in expanding their PLTW programs and includes training for teachers and resources for students. Priority is given to schools near John Deere facilities that demonstrate need and a commitment to student participation in STEM activities. The project aligns with the foundation's goal to impact one million youth by 2030.

The PLTW Gateway program expansion, funded by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance access to STEM education for underserved students in John Deere communities. With a commitment to support 1 million youth by 2030, this initiative provides grants to schools seeking to expand their existing PLTW programs. Eligible schools must be within proximity of John Deere facilities and demonstrate a significant enrollment of students participating in free and reduced lunch programs, ensuring equitable educational opportunities.

The J.C. Bubolz Memorial Scholarship provides two $2,000 awards for graduating high school seniors or continuing college students from the Fox Valley area. Eligible applicants must attend a 2-year or 4-year UW institution as full-time students, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship honors Julius Christian Bubolz, who valued education and community support, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to pursue their academic goals.

The PLTW Computer Science program, in collaboration with the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance access and participation in STEM for underserved students in John Deere home communities. This initiative focuses on expanding existing Computer Science programs in schools, ensuring equitable educational opportunities, and developing critical skills through real-world challenges. The partnership is part of a commitment to support 1 million underrepresented youth by 2030, fostering inclusivity in education.

The PLTW Computer Science program, funded by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance STEM opportunities for underserved students in John Deere communities. This initiative supports schools initiating or expanding PLTW Computer Science courses starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. With a commitment to inclusive education, the foundation seeks to empower students by providing essential resources and opportunities to develop critical skills that will serve them in future careers.

The Cousins Subs Make It Better Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on health & wellness, hunger, and youth education. Since its inception in 2013, the foundation has granted over $800,000 to eligible organizations that align with these key areas. Applications from 501(c)(3) entities are prioritized, with a one-year waiting period for previous grantees. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing community welfare and making a positive impact.

With a mission to strengthen communities, International Paper Company Foundation provides Dane County, Wisconsin nonprofits and public entities with US $2,500 - US $10,000 for education, hunger relief, health and wellness, disaster relief, and environmental initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3)s, qualifying government units, and organizations in good standing near International Paper operations can apply within the annual grant cycle.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Dane County, Wisconsin can seek project support for community development, education, environment, health and human services, or arts and culture. With a mission to strengthen local communities, We Energies Foundation provides funding to programs in communities it serves; organizations are generally eligible for one grant per calendar year.

Innovation Grants

Our Madison Rotary Foundation's Innovation Grants Program includes one-time grants of up to $5,000 intended to encourage not-for-profit organizations within the greater Madison area to try new things, inspire change and creativity, and foster new approaches to community challenges. We encourage you to innovate ways to enable your organization to better serve those in need.

Innovations might include exploring the validity of potential new services, programs, efficiencies, alliances, or service areas; reaching new demographics, or improving the delivery of existing services. Other innovation types will also be considered.

Current student members of the Mycological Society of America presenting a paper or poster can receive US $750 to attend the society’s annual meeting, including applicants from Dane County, Wisconsin. With a mission to support mycology, the society provides travel awards that may benefit students affiliated with local nonprofit institutions or programs.

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving.

Mission : MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.Middleton Endowment GrantThe Middleton Endowment (ME) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Middleton area for present and future generations. ME will accept grant requests from qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Key interest areas include: cultural enrichment, community development, education, natural and historic preservation and the needs of residents in the Middleton area.

About Madison Community FoundationSince 1942, Madison Community Foundation (MCF) has been building a stronger, more generous community and helping people like you make a lasting impact through charitable giving. Mission : MCF will engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community.About Monona Fund GrantThe Monona Fund embodies a collective passion for the vibrant community of Monona. Donors to the Fund share a commitment to pay it forward, fostering a culture of generosity that encourages others to contribute for the enduring benefit of the Monona community. The Monona Fund is an endowment fund designed to provide on-going resources to enhance the quality of life in Monona.The Monona Fund endeavors to encourage civic involvement through:

• Enhancing the quality of life
• Promoting citizen involvement
• Enriching public gathering spaces
• Supporting community values and a civic agenda

The Madison Rotary Foundation's Student Veterans Assistance Fund supports veterans in need of financial aid for urgent living expenses. Established by generous donations, this fund assists eligible veterans, including those enrolled in local colleges, with housing, utilities, medical costs, and textbooks. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including residency and service requirements, to qualify for this one-time grant. This initiative honors the sacrifices of veterans and aims to ease their financial burdens during their educational pursuits.

Graduating high school seniors and continuing college students from Dane County and the broader Fox Valley area pursuing business, economics, or accounting degrees can apply for a US $2,000 Business & Accounting Scholarship. Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region offers one award for students attending 2- or 4-year UW institutions with at least 9 credits per semester.

The Madison Rotary Foundation's Innovation Grants Program offers one-time grants up to $5,000 to inspire local non-profits in the Madison area to implement innovative solutions for community challenges. With approximately $50,000 available for grants, organizations are encouraged to explore new services, improve existing programs, and reach underserved demographics. This initiative aims to foster creativity and enhance the support provided to those in need, making a significant impact in the community.

The Old National Bank Foundation provides sponsorships to enhance community initiatives in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Their mission focuses on social responsibility, supporting underrepresented groups, and aligning with the Community Reinvestment Act. Sponsorships cover events such as fundraisers and sporting events, emphasizing active engagement and measurable impact. The Foundation aims to improve quality of life through strategic partnerships and meaningful contributions.

The Ross Wagner Foundation Scholarship offers significant financial support for students pursuing degrees in various engineering fields, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. With awards up to $25,000 annually, students can receive up to $100,000 over four years. Applicants must maintain a B average, work in engineering labs, and be enrolled in top-ranked engineering schools in the U.S. and Canada. This scholarship honors Ross Wagner's legacy, promoting excellence in engineering education.

The Pecatonica Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2010, is an endowment fund managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin. It provides vital resources to support the Pecatonica Area Schools, enhancing educational programs and recognizing student achievements. Grants are awarded annually to fund projects that fall outside the district's budget, ensuring that students receive innovative and quality educational opportunities. This initiative strengthens educational programming not typically covered by tax dollars.

Graduating high school seniors, continuing college, and non-traditional students in Dane County, Wisconsin and the broader Fox Valley area majoring in environmental or earth sciences can apply for the Dr. Leonard Weis Earth & Environmental Sciences Scholarship, awarding US $500 for fall semester costs. Preference is given to continuing students, non-traditional students, and veterans attending UW institutions.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial supports farmers by enhancing their marketing and technology capabilities. Grants can be utilized for branding, website creation, and payment technologies, as well as essential equipment like scales and tents. This initiative aims to promote direct consumer engagement and strengthen local food systems, ensuring fresh produce accessibility while fostering economic growth in rural communities. Eligible applicants must be Compeer clients actively participating in verified farmers markets.