Nonprofit Grant Program

The Madison South Rotary Foundation is proud to support local nonprofit organizations through our annual Spring grant program. With a focus on serving vulnerable populations and addressing critical community needs, we offer grants of up to $2,500 to help fund impactful programs, services, and resources in the Greater Madison, WI area. 
 
If your non-profit organization would like to submit a request, please complete the application form linked below and submit it along with proof of your organization’s non-profit tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status. No grant distributions will be made without this proof.

  

To be notified when our next application is posted in Spring 2027, please email:

Tara Ingalls, 2026 Grant Liaison
MadisonSouthRotaryFoundation@gmail.com

 

 

 

Please review our grant considerations below before submitting your application:
 

POPULATIONS BENEFITED

The Madison South Rotary Foundation favors programs and projects that serve and support the following areas:
  • Youth
  • Early Childhood
  • Homeless Families and Individuals
  • People with disabilities and mental illness
  • Families
  • Seniors
 

COMMUNITY NEEDS

The Foundation will consider support for a wide range of programs and services through the Community Grants Program, but will give priority to programs and projects directed toward:
  • Youth Learning and Basic Human Needs
  • Employment and Training
  • Youth Recreation
  • Community Engagement
  • Environment
 

USE OF GRANTS

Examples of expenditures for which applicants might wish to request funds are:
  • Direct delivery of services to the population served [e.g., medical treatment, counseling, instruction, concerts, etc.]
  • Acquisition of tangible items for the population served [e.g., food, clothes, instructional items, equipment for programs, etc.]
  • Purchase of equipment and tangible items for an organization [e.g., vans, computers, copiers, etc.]
  • Services and intangibles for the organization [e.g., staff training]
  • Administration services and supplies to support the delivery of the program [e.g,. accounting, management, maintenance, repairs, equipment lease, and utilities]
  • Purchase or building or renovating facilities [e.g., bricks and mortar] 
 

GEOGRAPHY

We accept applications from organizations that submit proposals for projects and/or programs that would benefit people living within the Greater Madison, Wisconsin area. 
 
The foundation will not consider requests for funds to cover debt retirement or make Community Grants to endowment funds or individuals. 

ANNOUNCING Our 2026 Grant Recipients

The Madison South Rotary Foundation is honored to support 57 nonprofit organizations through our 2026 Community Grants Program. This year, we received a record 88 applications from organizations doing important work throughout Dane County and beyond. While we were unable to fully fund every request, we are proud to provide partial funding to 57 nonprofits whose programs strengthen our community and improve lives.

These organizations serve individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges, including food insecurity, housing instability, educational barriers, mental health concerns, health care needs, and social isolation. They also create opportunities for learning, personal growth, recreation, and community connection for people of all ages.

The overwhelming response to this year's grant program is a powerful reminder of both the tremendous need that exists in our community and the incredible dedication of the nonprofit organizations working to meet it. We are grateful for the passion, innovation, and commitment demonstrated by each applicant.

To our 2026 grant recipients, thank you for the meaningful work you do every day. We are proud to partner with you and invest in programs that help make our communities stronger, healthier, and more connected.

Together, we are creating positive change.

Celebrating Our 2025 Grant Recipients

The Madison South Rotary Foundation is proud to recognize and support an incredible group of nonprofit organizations that are making a lasting impact across Dane County. Through our 2025 grant program, we awarded funding to 25 local organizations whose missions align with our focus on disadvantaged youth, family support, education, wellness, and community connection.

From literacy and early learning initiatives to mental health support, job readiness, mentorship, and inclusive programming, these nonprofits are working every day to lift up our neighbors, reduce barriers, and create opportunities for all. Each grant represents more than financial support—it reflects our commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community.

To our 2025 grant partners: thank you for your passion, dedication, and tireless work. We are honored to support your efforts and look forward to seeing the positive impact you continue to make.

Together, we are making a difference.