Wisconsin · Private Foundation

Alliant Energy Foundation Community Grants

Eligibility

Nonprofit organizations and K-12 schools in Alliant Energy's service territory — primarily central and eastern Wisconsin (plus Iowa and Minnesota). Schools must demonstrate a connection to energy literacy, STEM education, or community well-being.

Program Goals

The Alliant Energy Foundation supports STEM education, energy literacy, environmental stewardship, and community vitality in the regions Alliant Energy serves. For schools, grants typically fund hands-on science programs, energy-focused curriculum, and technology tools that prepare students for careers in energy and engineering fields.

Learn more at alliantenergy.com/community/foundation

Application

Applications open in summer with a September 15, 2026 deadline. Apply online through the Alliant Energy Foundation portal. Include a project description, budget, and explanation of how the program connects to STEM or energy education. Schools should confirm their district is within Alliant's service area before applying.

Cycle Notes

Annual cycle with a consistent September 15 deadline most years. Award decisions are typically communicated in late fall or early winter. Grantees are expected to submit a brief impact report after the program period.

Award Amount

Award amounts vary by project scope. Most school grants range from $1,000 to $10,000. There is no published minimum or maximum. Competitive applications are specific about student impact, grade levels served, and how the project connects to energy or STEM careers.

Allowable Purchases

Curriculum materials, technology, and hands-on learning tools aligned with STEM and energy education are strong fits. Forward Education products that connect well:

• Smart Solar Energy Kit — Directly aligned with Alliant Energy's clean energy focus. Students build and test solar circuits and learn how renewable energy works.
• Climate Action Kit — Connects environmental science with engineering design, a strong fit for energy-focused funders.
• Coding for Good Kit — Introduces computational thinking through real-world problem-solving projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my school need to be in Alliant Energy's service area?
Yes. The Foundation primarily funds communities in Alliant's Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota service territory. Check alliantenergy.com for a service area map.

Can a teacher apply, or must it be the district?
Applications are typically submitted by schools or nonprofit organizations — a teacher can lead the project but the school or district is the applicant of record.

What is the typical grant size for schools?
Most school grants fall in the $1,000–$10,000 range based on past awards, though the foundation does not publish fixed amounts.

Is there a match requirement?
No formal match is required, but showing other funding sources or in-kind support strengthens applications.

Can the grant cover teacher professional development?
Yes, PD costs directly tied to the funded program are generally allowable.