Vibrant Spaces Grant (WI)

The Vibrant Spaces Grant in Wisconsin aims to enhance community well-being by funding public space improvements. Local governments can apply for grants ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. Key eligibility criteria include a 1:1 match requirement and community engagement. Projects should create vibrant gathering spaces, increase foot traffic, and support local businesses. The initiative fosters connections and encourages diverse activities, making it a vital resource for revitalizing underutilized areas and promoting economic growth.

NOTE:

• Those interested in applying for the Vibrant Spaces Grant should:

Talk to your local municipality, since they will need to serve as the lead applicant.Reach out to your WEDC regional economic development director for a program application.
Community Development Grant for Placemaking Projects
Creating vibrant and engaging communities helps communities recruit and retain residents, sustaining a robust labor force and enhancing the quality of life. Creating public gathering places in the heart of our communities fosters community connections and creates accessible locations for programming and amenities desired by local residents, with the additional benefit of boosting foot traffic for nearby businesses.
If your community has a vacant or underutilized space within a key commercial corridor, this grant could be your opportunity to create a community gathering space.
Competitive projects will:
Incorporate multiple improvements within or associated with one public spaceDemonstrate community engagement and support via a community document/plan and/or letters of support from public, private, and civic partnersBe ready to begin construction next calendar yearIncrease the number and types of audiences using the spaceCreate visible and lasting transformation that fosters public activity
Review Criteria
Creation of visible and pedestrian-oriented public spacePotential of the space to attract multiple user groups and activitiesImpact of the project on the community, district, and nearby businessesDemonstrated community support for the project (multiple funding partners, civic organization participation)Ability of the project to be started in the next calendar year
Funding
Grants of $25,000-$50,000 to help local communities develop and enhance public spaces. Competitive application cycle with up to 50 grants awarded.

Eligibility

Local government applicants only1:1 match requiredOne application per communityMunicipalities may receive a VS grant every other year.Eligible activities include:Public space enhancements for projects activating alleys, programmable park spaces, vacant parcels and underutilized parking lots, including elements such as public art, landscaping, benches, bike racks, etc.Public signage (wayfinding, interpretive signage, kiosks, or other signage located on and associated with the space)Public infrastructure (site prep, restrooms, water features, electrical, lighting)Seasonal equipment with the intent to use annually (tables, chairs, umbrellas, heaters)

Ineligibility

Ineligible activities and costs include:Building demolition or improvements, other than restrooms for public space useDistrict- or community-wide improvement projectsEvents, staffing, programming, ongoing maintenancePrivate spaces not accessible to the publicActivities eligible to be funded through other WEDC programsIneligible for grant or match: Past costs, in-kind contributions, indirect expenses/soft costs