Our current grantmaking framework includes support for designated “bedrock” organizations with one-year general operating grants. These are organizations – mostly in arts and culture and arts education – that we have consistently supported over the years and that have missions that are particularly aligned with our priorities and guiding principles. Applications for these general operating grants are by invitation only.
In addition, we conduct competitive grant processes in the areas of arts and culture, arts education, arts awareness, and early childhood education that are posted on our website throughout the year. Applications for arts and culture, arts education, and arts awareness typically are accepted in the second quarter, and applications for early childhood education in the third quarter. We have specific eligibility criteria for these grants, but they are not invitation-only and those eligible to apply may do so at their discretion.
Finally, we issue grants for civic improvement projects or initiatives, but those are by invitation only.
How To Apply
In mid-April, we completed a solicitation for applications for certain arts and culture and arts education categories, and in mid-July, we completed a solicitation for applications to support early childhood education organizations and initiatives. The application processes for these categories are now closed until 2026.
Photo Credits: UWM Libraries Digital Collection of Richard and Ethel Herzfeld | Marcus Center for the Performing Arts Photos by Front Room Studios, Lindsay Stayton Photography, & Michaela Beal | Milwaukee Ballet Photos by Rachel Malehorn, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Photos by Jonathan Kirn & Valerie Hill | Renaissance Theaterworks Photos by Ross Zentner
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Milwaukee, WI 53202
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