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FY26 Oct 31, 2025 deadline has passed. Watch WEDC Ignite Wisconsin page for FY27 round.
Ignite Wisconsin is a grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) that funds regional consortiums working to grow startup ecosystems and entrepreneurial activity across Wisconsin. The program invests in collaborative efforts to build robust innovation infrastructure, support early-stage companies, and strengthen regional networks of investors, mentors, and entrepreneurs.
Past awards include $950,000 to the Wisconsin Frontier Technology Consortium. Eligible applicants are regional consortiums focused on expanding startup ecosystems throughout the state. The most recent application deadline was October 31, 2025.
Check the WEDC website for information on future solicitation cycles and eligibility requirements for Ignite Wisconsin funding.
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Join us for a conversation about the Ignite Wisconsin Grant! The Entrepreneurship & Innovation team will be sharing details about the grant program and how it can support your ideas. We’ll also answer your questions and help you explore how Ignite could be a fit for you.
Fostering a dynamic environment for startups Dense, well-connected entrepreneurial ecosystems—where entrepreneurs, institutions, and support organizations collaborate seamlessly and productively—are proven to catalyze innovation, reduce barriers to entry, and accelerate learning. Such ecosystems also elevate regional and sector-based reputations, helping to attract even more talent, capital, and entrepreneurial activity.
To support the goal of increasing Wisconsin’s startup and capital density, WEDC created Ignite Wisconsin, a new program that will offer funding support for consortia based in regions across Wisconsin to support those consortia’s efforts to boost entrepreneurship. View the current guidelines and information for this program.
Ignite Wisconsin: The details We’re looking for the best and brightest ideas on how to support the innovative startups and brilliant ideas Wisconsin produces. Since the best ideas are built through collaboration, we’re looking for partners to help plan, support, and create new ways of building thriving ecosystems for high-growth startups. Applicants must collaborate with ecosystem partners in a formal or informal consortium.
Consortia may use the funds for: Entrepreneur support and technical assistance Direct business funding Programmatic and space support Marketing, storytelling, and consortium operations Applicants should clearly identify how their proposed activities will contribute to the goals of: Increasing early-stage investment in Wisconsin Establishing or expanding incubators, cohorts, and technical assistance for startups Launching or expanding entrepreneur-in-residence and fellowship programs Enhancing commercialization and innovation activities Sharing the stories of Wisconsin’s entrepreneurial success WEDC expects to award four to six grants in the first year of this program, with individual grant amounts ranging from $200,000 to $2 million.
Team members in WEDC’s Division of Entrepreneurship and Innovation are available to provide feedback and guidance for anyone considering submitting an application. We encourage reaching out well in advance of the application deadline to ensure adequate time for providing and incorporating the team’s input. Application deadline: Oct.
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According to the current listing, eligibility includes: Regional consortiums focused on growing startup ecosystems in Wisconsin. Confirm the full requirements in the official notice before applying.
The current listing shows awarded to consortiums (e.g., Wisconsin Frontier Technology Consortium received $950,000). Verify award ceilings, matching requirements, and allowable costs in the official notice.
The most recent published deadline was October 31, 2025, which has passed. This is an annual program, so a new cycle should follow. Check the funder's website for the next application window.
Ignite Wisconsin is funded by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). Verify program details on the funder's official page before applying.
This opportunity targets applicants in Wisconsin. If your organization operates elsewhere, check the official notice for location requirements.
Applications go through the funder's official portal — the Apply Now link on this page goes there directly.
7 Rivers Small Business Revitalization Grant Program is a grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), administered by the 7 Rivers Alliance, that provides micro-grants of up to $10,000 directly to small businesses in Western Wisconsin, with a focus on rural communities. Funded through a $250,000 WEDC Small Business Development Grant, eligible uses include equipment and technology upgrades, building improvements, façade renovations, new signage, and startup working capital or rent assistance for up to three months. Applicants must participate in up to 20 hours of ongoing education, mentorship, or technical assistance, though businesses may substitute a 10% cash match in lieu of technical assistance. This program targets small businesses looking to stabilize, modernize, or launch operations in underserved rural communities across the 7 Rivers region of Wisconsin.
Community Development Investment Grant Program is sponsored by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). This program helps transform communities by supporting local development efforts, with an emphasis on downtown community-driven projects. It provides financial incentives for shovel-ready projects. Eligible activities include building renovation, historic preservation, demolition, new construction, and infrastructure improvements. Grant recipients must demonstrate significant, measurable benefits in job opportunities, property values, and/or leveraged investment by local and private partners.
Empowering Communities Grants is sponsored by PPL Foundation. These grants enrich the overall vitality of the community through programs that protect the environment and improve people's lives. Focus areas include environmental stewardship and education. Projects involving native plant pollinator habitat restoration within the Schuylkill watershed could align with environmental stewardship goals.
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