How much funding does Rural Vitality Grant provide?

Rural Vitality Grant provides $500 - $25,000 in funding.

When is the deadline for Rural Vitality Grant?

The deadline is September 30, 2026.

Rural Vitality Grant

FOND DU LAC AREA FOUNDATION

Foundation Annual Grants for Nonprofits Foundation Grants Community Development Grants Workforce Development Grants

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Funding Amount

$500 - $25,000

Deadline

September 30, 2026

176 days left

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Rural Vitality Grant

Overview: Partnership between Fond du Lac Area Foundation, Beaver Dam Area Community Foundation, and Compeer Financial to support strength and stability of rural communities.

Geographic Scope:

Fond du Lac and Dodge County nonprofits and schools eligible

Focus on communities with less than 10,000 people or rural micropolitans with less than 50,000 people

Ineligible: City of Fond du Lac and City of Beaver Dam (due to population)

Total Grant Cycle: $50,000 available

Eligibility Requirements:

Must be a nonprofit organization or school

Project must be planned and moving forward (not just proposed)

Grant application must have broad community support and leadership

Must demonstrate financial investments in the project

Approved Funding Areas:

Agriculture: Programs, projects, and services enhancing agricultural landscape and opportunities

Community Development: Healthcare, daycare, and quality of life improvements

Entrepreneurship/Small Business Development: Support for creative entrepreneurs and small business owners

Housing Expansion: Rural housing enhancements (single family, multifamily, workforce housing)

Youth and Adult Leadership Development: Leadership training and promotion

Rural School Education: Programmatic enhancements and innovations ensuring world-class education

Workforce Development: Attracting, retaining, training, and sustaining community members in vital careers

What is NOT Funded:

Sporting teams/activities/recreation

Arts and culture-related activities

Scholarships

Endowments

Application Types: Capacity building, enhancements to current special projects, expanded programming, and building projects

Contact Information:

Email: aaron@fdlareafoundation.com

Phone: 920-921-2215

Website: https://fdlareafoundation.com/apply-for-a-grant/

How to Apply

Application Process

1. Access the Online Portal: Utilize the Foundation's GoApply online grant portal
2. Create User Account: Set up an organization user profile (first required step)
3. Review User Guide: Access available on FDLAF website for step-by-step instructions
4. Follow Portal Instructions: Simple interface with step-by-step application directions
5. Submit Application: By deadline via online portal

Required Materials: Application submitted through GoApply portal with organization profile information and project details.

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