Instructions for Civic Engagement

Funding opportunities may be found at our Homegrown Grants page

OR

Expired 11-12-2025

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS 
Fostering Civic Engagement for a Healthy Democracy

HKP invites proposals from nonprofit organizations working to strengthen civic engagement and participation as a foundation for a healthy democracy. We seek organizations committed to fostering informed, inclusive, and active civic life in Wisconsin communities.  This initiative reflects our belief that a strong democracy depends on engaged citizens who are informed, connected, and empowered to participate in civic life—locally and beyond.

 

Funding Priorities

 We are interested in proposals that:

  • Build civic knowledge and understanding of democratic institutions and processes.
  • Encourage participation in civic and community decision-making, including voting, volunteering, and local problem-solving.
  • Support civil dialogue and bridge divides across lines of difference.
  • Engage youth and underrepresented populations in civic life.
  • Promote trust and collaboration between communities, local leaders, and institutions.
  • Innovative and community-rooted approaches are encouraged. Projects may include education and engagement programs, public forums, media and storytelling initiatives, leadership development, or partnerships that strengthen local civic ecosystems.

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must be:

  • A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or fiscally sponsored entity.
  • Serving communities within Wisconsin.
  • Able to demonstrate a track record or clear plan for civic engagement impact.

 

Grant Amounts and Duration

Grants up to $100,000 will be awarded for projects lasting up to 12–24 months.

 

Letter of Interest Required

  • 1 page in length to describe your organization, statement of need, and brief project description.
  • Must be submitted to  info@herbkohlphilanthropies.org
  • Questions may be directed to the email above or by telephone at 414.271.6600.
  • Deadline for LOI is no later than 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 5, 2025.

 

Proposal Requirements- if selected to submit full proposal

  1. Organization Overview – mission, history, and key programs.
  2. Project Description – goals, activities, and target audience.
  3. Civic Impact – how the project fosters engagement and strengthens democracy.
  4. Past success - recent example(s) of a successful program/project.
  5. Partnerships and Collaboration – existing or planned partnerships.
  6. Evaluation Plan – how success will be measured.
  7. Budget and Timeline.

 

Application Process

  • Deadline for proposals: 5:00 p.m. November 12, 2025
  • Notification of awards: Dec 12, 2025
  • Grant period begins: January 1, 2026

 

Selection Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

  • Alignment with funding priorities
  • Potential for meaningful and measurable civic impact
  • Inclusivity and community reach
  • Organizational capacity and partnerships
  • Sustainability beyond the grant period 

The Foundation awards grants exclusively to organizations recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). We do not fund individuals, non-charitable entities, or Private Foundations.