Application Process
- Deadline: All applications must be submitted online by April 4, 2025.
- Announcement: Grant awards will be announced in early May 2025.
- Closeout Report: Due by November 1, 2025, without exceptions.
Grant Details
- Funding: Friends groups can apply for up to $3,500.
- Match Requirement: Minimum 1:1 match from Friends group.
- Eligibility: Open to Friends Groups with up-to-date FWSP membership fees and a valid agreement with WI State Parks Bureau. (Renew/Apply Group Membership)
Priority Projects
Examples include:
- Seasonal naturalist wages
- Naturalist and outdoor education programs and supplies
- Interpretive exhibits, displays, or signage
- Adaptive kayak(s) and cart(s)
The application can also cover:
- Playground enhancements
- Repairs
- Equipment
- Fire rings
- Picnic tables
Application Guidelines
- Discuss the project with the property manager/superintendent (signature required).
- Apply online by April 4, 2025.
- Provide detailed budget and project information.
Ranking Criteria
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| On-time, complete application with detailed budget | 1 |
| No Incentive Grant funding in last 2 years | 2 |
| 15% or more match above required 1:1 | 3 |
Important Notes
- Grant funds cannot be used for administrative overhead, consultation services, planning, or design work.
- Projects must be located at Wisconsin State Park System properties.
- Recognition of FWSP funding is required through various means (newsletters, social media, signage, etc.).
- If the closeout report is not submitted by November 1, 2025, it will be ineligible for 2026 Incentive Grants.
Q and A
Do you want hours only or should we assign a $ value to these donated hours?
In-kind labor hours do not count towards the cash match for the grant.
If you want us to assign a $ value, do you have a preferred $/hour rate, or is it variable depending on the type of in-kind labor?
The value would be the base pay of a laborer at the park.
Does in-kind labor count towards the Friends grant match in the current application cycle, or is the grant match only considering monetary contributions?
No, In-kind labor does not count toward a cash match.
Do you now require that the president sign the application?
There is no president’s signature required, but the contact of the grant writer and park manager approval are required.