Wisconsin · Private Foundation

Community Impact Fund Grants (Madison Community Foundation)

Eligibility

Nonprofit organizations and K-12 schools serving Dane County and the greater Madison, Wisconsin area. Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or schools operating as public entities. Programs must demonstrably benefit Dane County residents.

Program Goals

The Madison Community Foundation's Community Impact Fund supports nonprofits and schools working on arts and culture, environment, human services, and education in Dane County. Education grants typically support programs that expand access, reduce achievement gaps, and strengthen community well-being for Madison-area students.

Learn more at madisongives.org

Application

Applications are submitted online through the Madison Community Foundation's grant portal. The next deadline is June 3, 2027. Apply early — only approximately 20% of applications receive funding. Strong applications demonstrate clear community need, measurable outcomes, and organizational capacity to deliver the project.

Cycle Notes

Annual spring grant cycle. The June 3 deadline applies to the 2027 cycle. Award decisions are typically announced in late summer or fall. Grantees submit impact reports following the grant period.

Award Amount

Award amounts vary based on project scope and available funding. The Foundation does not publish a fixed minimum or maximum. Schools and nonprofits should request what they genuinely need with a clear budget justification.

Allowable Purchases

Program materials, curriculum, technology, and hands-on tools that serve students in Dane County. Forward Education products that support community-based education goals:

• Climate Action Kit — Supports environmental education initiatives aligned with Madison's strong sustainability values.
• Coding for Good Kit — Addresses digital equity goals by bringing CS fundamentals to underserved Madison-area students.
• Smart Solar Energy Kit — Connects to environmental and clean energy priorities that resonate with Dane County funders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this grant only for Madison schools?
The primary focus is Dane County. Schools in Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton, Verona, Sun Prairie, and other Dane County communities are eligible.

What is the acceptance rate?
Approximately 20% of applications receive funding, making preparation and a strong community impact case critical.

Can a public school apply directly?
Yes. Public schools qualify as public entities and can apply without a fiscal sponsor.

Does the Foundation prioritize any specific areas of education?
The Foundation values programs addressing equity, access, and measurable outcomes — particularly for underserved students.

Can funds cover staff time or coordination?
Yes, within reason. Personnel costs directly tied to the funded project are generally allowable.