Best Portage County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

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 Alliant Energy Foundation offers community grants to support local organizations within its service areas. With a focus on strategic areas such as hunger, housing, workforce readiness, environmental stewardship, and community safety, the foundation has invested over $76 million since 1998. Applications are accepted year-round, and funding is available for specific programs aimed at enhancing community well-being and innovation. Organizations may receive one grant per year, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to diverse community support.

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin offers the Major Projects grant to support impactful community projects in Portage and Waushara counties. Annually, one project is funded with grants ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. Eligible organizations include nonprofit agencies and government entities that are tax-exempt, aiming to benefit the general public. Projects in the areas of Arts, Education, Environment, Helping People, and Wellness are encouraged, while operating expenses and political lobbying are ineligible.

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 Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, a 501(c)(3) charity established in 1982, offers three annual competitive grant cycles. These grants support organizations and projects that improve the quality of life in Portage and Waushara counties. The foundation promotes philanthropy through its five mission areas: Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Helping People, and Wellness, ensuring resources are directed to meet the community's most pressing needs.

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.

The Alan A. Meddaugh Memorial Scholarship supports students in Central Wisconsin pursuing a 2-year technical education in fields such as plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or construction. Administered by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, this scholarship is part of a broader initiative that awards over $325,000 annually to students across various educational backgrounds. Recipients are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and community involvement, with awards ranging from $500 to $40,000.

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

The Universal Service Fund - Nonprofit Access Grant supports nonprofit organizations in obtaining partial funding for projects aimed at improving affordable telecommunications access. Targeting low-income households and individuals with disabilities, this program allocates up to $500,000 annually to help address high service costs in underserved areas. By facilitating essential telecommunications services, the grant fosters greater connectivity and support for vulnerable communities across Wisconsin.

The Rewarding Responders Grant, offered by the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation, supports emergency response agencies in their safety initiatives. Since 2014, over $500,000 has been awarded to enhance public safety through equipment purchases and professional development. Each project can receive up to $2,000, with applications open to local, county, and volunteer fire, law enforcement, and rescue agencies within the service area. Grants should be utilized within two years to ensure impactful and sustainable safety efforts.

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 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.

The William Guither Science Scholarship, established in 1981 and named in honor of Emeritus Professor William Guither, offers a $2,500 award to full-time students majoring in a science-related field at a UW institution. The scholarship provides $1,250 for each of the fall and spring semesters. To maintain eligibility, students must uphold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. This scholarship supports future scientists and acknowledges academic excellence in the physical sciences.

The Veldor Kopitzke Scholarship, established in 2004, supports students pursuing degrees in Business or Economics at UW institutions. Named after a dedicated community member and Professor Emeritus of Economics, this scholarship awards $800, non-renewable, for the fall semester. To maintain eligibility, students must register as full-time students in their chosen fields. This scholarship honors Professor Kopitzke's commitment to education and community service.

The Verne Imhoff Scholarship, established in 2006, honors LaVerne J. Imhoff, a pivotal figure at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley. This $2,000 non-renewable scholarship supports students pursuing post-secondary education, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 to retain eligibility. The scholarship reflects the legacy of Dr. Imhoff, who significantly contributed to the university's development before his passing in 1997.

The Van Wyk Family Scholarship, established in 1993 by Tom and Linda Van Wyk, awards a $2000 scholarship to a student pursuing a business-related major at the UWO-Fox Cities campus. To maintain eligibility, recipients must enroll in at least 9 credits per semester, achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50, and continue majoring in a business field. This scholarship aims to support students in their educational endeavors.

The Sara Ruth Krueger Memorial Scholarship offers a one-time award of $600 for students attending a 2-year or 4-year UW institution. This scholarship is non-renewable and is intended to assist with the cost of attendance for the fall semester. To maintain eligibility, students must enroll as full-time students. The funding is provided by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, a private organization dedicated to supporting local education.

The Quest for Truth Scholarship, established in 2020 by a caring donor, aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by families in higher education. With a non-renewable award of $1,000, this scholarship encourages students demonstrating financial need to apply each year. However, recipients must maintain full-time student status at a UW institution and uphold good academic standing to retain eligibility. This initiative reflects a commitment to supporting educational aspirations.

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 Minnesota Twins Community Fund, established in 1991, has significantly impacted youth sports in Twins Territory by providing over $24 million in support. Through grants and donations, they empower young athletes, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and personal growth. The fund focuses on 501c3 nonprofits in their region, ensuring that initiatives foster both athletic skills and character development. With strict guidelines for donations, the Twins continue to enhance community engagement and inspire the next generation of leaders.

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Barlow Enterprises Charitable and Educational Fund

Criteria for Selection:

• Be a student employee at the Bill’s Pizza division of Barlow Enterprises.

The Visionary Grants program, managed by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, supports innovative nonprofit projects in Portage and Waushara counties. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for multi-year commitments, encouraging organizations to launch new initiatives or enhance existing services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and community groups. This funding aims to embed improvements into the organizational budget, fostering a sustainable impact on the community.

The Business & Accounting Scholarship, established by anonymous donors through the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, aims to support high school seniors and college students from the Fox Valley area pursuing degrees in business, accounting, or economics. The scholarship offers one award of $2,000, distributed across two semesters, to students who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75. This initiative helps foster educational opportunities and community growth.

The Valley Kids Foundation Grants are designed to provide essential support to children in the Fox River Valley area of Wisconsin. With zero operating expenses, all contributions directly assist children under eighteen years old in need of medical help, educational assistance, and recreational opportunities. The Foundation is committed to using donations efficiently and complying with all regulations, ensuring that every dollar helps make a significant difference in the lives of local children.

The Dr. Leonard Weis Earth & Environmental Sciences Scholarship, established by Captain Greg Neuschafer, honors Professor Leonard Weis for his impactful teaching at the University of Wisconsin Fox Valley. This $500 non-renewable scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and non-traditional students from the Fox Valley area who are pursuing environmental or earth sciences at a UW institution. Preference is given to continuing students and veterans, with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5.

The Elizabeth Guttenberg Memorial Scholarship honors the vibrant life of Liz Guttenberg, a talented young artist and active community member who tragically passed away at 18. Funded by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, this $750 non-renewable scholarship supports graduating high school seniors or continuing college students from the Fox Valley area pursuing degrees in Arts or Theatre at UW institutions, encouraging them to thrive in their educational endeavors.