How much funding does Incentive Grants provide?

Incentive Grants provides Up to $3,500 in funding.

When is the deadline for Incentive Grants?

The funder has not published the next deadline; based on past cycles it is expected around March.

Who is eligible for Incentive Grants?

Geography: Projects must be located at Wisconsin State Park System properties.

How often is Incentive Grants offered?

Incentive Grants runs on an annual cycle. The next deadline is expected March 16, 2027.

Incentive Grants

Friends of Wisconsin State Parks Inc

Foundation Annual Recreation Grants Environmental Education Grants Playground Grants

Funding Amount

Up to $3,500

Deadline

Expected ~March

Based on past cycles

Grant Type

Foundation

Deadline history & next window

Cycle: Annual
Current deadline: March 16, 2027
Tracked since: April 2026

Deadlines typically fall in: March

Source: the cycle recorded on this listing. Confirm dates with the funder.

Can we apply?

Check your organization against each line. Taken from the listing; confirm with the funder's guidelines.

Geography

Projects must be located at Wisconsin State Park System properties

Other requirements

Open to Friends Groups that are in good standing with annual membership fee
Must have a valid agreement with WI State Parks Bureau

Not eligible / not funded

Not eligible: If closeout report not submitted by November 10, group will be ineligible for 2027 Incentive Grants

Overview

This fund supports naturalist projects and programs at Wisconsin State Parks, forests, trails, and recreation areas.

Geographic Scope: Wisconsin State Park System properties only

Match Requirement: Minimum 1:1 match from Friends group (cash or in-kind)

Eligibility

Open to Friends Groups that are in good standing with annual membership fee
Must have a valid agreement with WI State Parks Bureau
Projects must be located at Wisconsin State Park System properties

Priority Projects

Seasonal naturalist wages
Naturalist and outdoor education programs and supplies
Interpretive exhibits, displays, or signage
Adaptive kayak(s) and cart(s)

Other Eligible Projects

Playground enhancements
Repairs
Equipment
Fire rings
Picnic tables

What They Don't Fund

Administrative overhead
Consultation services
Planning or design work

Special Requirements

Recognition Required: Recognition of FWSP funding is required through newsletters, social media, signage, or other means
Closeout Report: Due by November 10, 2026, without exceptions. Must include receipts, invoices, and photos
If closeout report not submitted by November 10, group will be ineligible for 2027 Incentive Grants
If unused funds remain, must return to FWSP by November 30, 2026

How to Apply

Application Process

Discuss with Property Manager: Contact the property manager/superintendent to discuss the project (superintendent signature required on application)
Complete Online Form: Apply online with all required questions and information
Obtain Signatures: Grant writer and park manager signatures required
Submit by Deadline: All applications must be submitted online by March 16

Required Materials

Property manager/superintendent signature and approval
Grant writer signature
Park manager approval
Detailed project description
Budget information
Match funding sources

Notes

In-kind labor hours do not count towards cash match requirement
If project is cancelled or program is less than expected, complete closeout report with explanation
If project circumstances change, complete closeout report with details of changes

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