Press Release: Gov. Evers Launches New $50 Million Non-State Grant Program Supporting Statewide Community Development

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today launched the new Non-State Grant Program to support local infrastructure improvement and community development projects in communities across the state. This program was established as part of the 2023-25 biennial budget, 2023 Wisconsin Act 19, with a $50 million allocation of state funding to support economic and community development, bolster Wisconsin’s infrastructure, and improve the overall quality of life in the state. The Non-State Grant Program will serve as a catalyst for community development, empowering local organizations to undertake construction projects that have a profound public purpose. 

The program launch comes as just last week, Gov. Evers announced he’s investing $36.6 million available through the American Rescue Plan Act into building projects across the state in Janesville, Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Door County. Republican members of the Wisconsin State Legislature previously rejected the five projects through the 2023-25 Capital Budget process.    

“Investments through the Non-State Grant Program will help support local jobs and workers, bolster local tourism and economies, and improve the quality of life for folks in every corner of Wisconsin,” said Gov. Evers. “A critical part of our administration’s work has been ensuring our infrastructure, workforce, and economy are prepared to meet the needs of the 21st Century, and that includes investing in critical improvements and development at the local level that we know will have a long-term impact on our communities and our state. 

“Along with the five new building projects we announced last week, this initiative marks a significant stride in our efforts to build strong, resilient communities here in Wisconsin. I encourage local partners to take advantage of this new opportunity,” Gov. Evers concluded. 

The application period for the program is now open and will close on Jan. 31, 2024. During this window, non-state organizations are encouraged to submit proposals that not only align with the program’s mission but also demonstrate innovative solutions to pressing community challenges. To be eligible for a grant, non-state organizations must secure funding from non-state revenue sources covering at least half of the total project cost and be ready for construction. This period represents a unique opportunity for organizations to contribute to the state’s progress by proposing projects that stand to make a lasting impact on Wisconsin’s social and economic landscape.   

Additional information about the Non-State Grant Program, including guidelines and application procedures, is available here.