2026 Funding Priorities
We are committed to helping make the greater La Crosse area a more inclusive and equitable place for all women and girls. In general, we fund programs that:
- Serve mostly or all women and girls
- Address women’s and girls’ current and critical needs
- Are welcoming and inclusive of all identities of women and girls
- Promote the inclusion of women and girls in all of society, including giving back to the community
We know that real, long-lasting change happens when there is a focus on removing existing barriers to self-sufficiency.
In 2026 we will continue our commitment to prioritizing awards for programs that are working to remove barriers to transportation, education, or housing for women and girls.
Safe, affordable, and uncomplicated access to transportation, education, and housing can create pathways to economic independence and self-sufficiency.
2026 GRANT AWARD AVAILABILITY
The Women’s Fund Board of Directors has made $94,200 available for new grant awards in 2026. Grant awards typically range between $2,000 and $15,000. Organizations seeking funding less than $2,000 will have the opportunity to apply for a mini-grant later this year through a simplified process.
This grant cycle includes the opportunity to apply for one of two types of grants: standard or signature. Specific limitations apply to each grant type.
- Standard grants award one-year of funding. Organizations may request support for the same program for up to three years. WFGL will fund the first year at 100%, the second at no more than 75%, and the third at no more than 50% of first-year funding. You must apply each year for funding. Funding in years two and three is not guaranteed.
- Signature grants award multi-year funding. Funds for multi-year awards are limited, and not all programs that apply for multi-year funding will be awarded multiple years. Programs that apply for multi-year funding may be declined for a multi-year award but still approved for a standard one-year award. Signature grant awards are only available to programs that exclusively serve women and girls.
We encourage you to write your application as clearly and thoroughly as possible. You are invited to take advantage of opportunities to work with Women’s Fund as you develop your request before the May 1 deadline.
If you’d like to learn more about our annual competitive grant process and how to apply, please email executive_director@womensfundlacrosse.org.
What We Fund
We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable life for all women and girls so they can do the same for others.
We fund programs that:
- Serve mostly or all women and girls
- Address women’s and girls’ current and critical needs
- Are inclusive of all races, ethnicities and religions
- And promote the inclusion of women and girls in all of society
Who We Fund
Priority is given to programs that directly impact or serve mostly women and girls.
We invite the following organizations to apply:
- Registered 501(c)3 organizations
- Public agencies (like health departments or school districts)
- Special projects with a fiscal sponsor relationship with a 501(c)3 organization
- Serves women and girls in La Crosse, Monroe, or Trempealeau Counties in Wisconsin and Houston County in Minnesota
What We Don't Fund
Requesting programs cannot be part of a program designed for both boys and girls or men and women (i.e.: playground equipment at a school that serves both boys and girls). Programs for boys and men that relate to healthy relationships and support women and girls may be considered.
We do not provide funding to:
- Individuals
- For-profit businesses
- Lobbying efforts
- Political campaigns
- Annual campaigns
- Debt retirement
- Gift campaigns
- Building or capital improvements. We reserve the right to allocate funds to support the safety and viability of programs within critical Women’s Fund focus areas.
- Projects or programs that require specific religious participation or affiliation.
When To Apply
March – May
*To see the exact dates that applications are open, check the Application Timeline below.
2026 Application Timeline
NOTE: We highly encourage applicants to seek technical assistance from the Executive Director to help ensure you submit your most competitive application. The Executive Director’s role in the evaluation process is to ensure the most equitable application and evaluation process possible.
Technical Assistance Contact:
Jamie Schloegel, Executive Director
executive_director@womensfundlacrosse.org
608.780.5710