Rewarding Responders Grants

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.

Wisconsin Public Service Foundation helps support local public safety response agencies with the Rewarding Responders Grant. Since 2014, the foundation has awarded more than $500,000 of support.
Guidelines
Grants may be used to purchase equipment and professional development, but should be part of a well-planned and integrated public safety initiative. Projects must be special, one-time, safety-related efforts. Any equipment purchased with this grant must stay in the ownership of the department for a minimum of five years unless it is consumable or becomes expired.
The foundation will award $75,000 per year. The maximum grant amount awarded will be $2,000 per project and must be used within two years.

Eligibility

All organizations must provide emergency response services in the WPS gas and/or electric service area.County, local and volunteer fire, law enforcement and rescue agencies are encouraged to apply.Only one grant application per organization will be accepted.What would be considered for funding?Lifesaving equipment, such as AED, Jaws of Life, CO and natural gas measuring equipment, thermal imaging cameras, pediatric IV kits, night-vision cameras and job-related safety gear, including masks, helmets, coveralls and fire resistant suits, ballistic vests, etc.Professional development/training inclusive of registration fees, tuition, on-site trainer's fees, etc.

Ineligibility

Not considered for funding: emergency generators; capital projects such as new buildings and large vehicle purchases; real estate; endowments; software; T-shirts or other promotional items; travel fees; stipends and/or meals.Organizations that received 2024 grants are ineligible for the 2025 grant cycle