Instructions for Civic Engagement (Strengthening civic health for thriving communities)

Instructions for Civic Engagement (Strengthening civic health for thriving communities) is sponsored by Herb Kohl Philanthropies. Supports nonprofit projects that strengthen civic engagement, youth involvement in civil society, civil dialogue, and community decision-making in Wisconsin.

Instructions for Civic Engagement · Herb Kohl Philanthropies Instructions for Civic Engagement REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS 8-25-2026 through 9-30-2026 Strengthening civic health for thriving communities HKP invites proposals from nonprofit organizations working to strengthen civic engagement and invest in Wisconsin communities. We seek organizations committed to fostering informed, inclusive, and active civic life in Wisconsin communities.

At HKP we are inspired by recent collaborative investments, including a university program that combines academic learning and civic engagement both in and out of the classroom, as well as a multi-partner, communitywide effort to improve a favorite public gathering space.

This initiative reflects our belief that civic engagement is important infrastructure that builds a stronger society of engaged citizens who are informed, connected, and empowered to participate in civic life. Funding Priorities and Grant Amounts We are interested in proposals that: Encourage youth involvement in improving civil society. Support civil dialogue and bridge divides across lines of difference.

Foster engagement in civic and community decision-making, including voting, volunteering and local problem-solving. Boost social connectedness, such as public forums, or media and storytelling initiatives. Partnerships that deepen local civic ecosystems.

Promote trust and collaboration between communities, local leaders, and institutions. Community-rooted approaches that help solve local issues. Grants up to $100,000 will be awarded for projects lasting 12-24 months.

Strong applications that address multiple priorities and have demonstrated success are more likely to receive a larger grant amount 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.

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.

Deadline for LOI is no later than 5:00 p. m. Wednesday, September 30,2026.

Proposal Requirements- if selected to submit full proposal Organization Overview – mission, history, and key programs. Project Description – goals, activities, and target audience. Civic Impact – how the project fosters engagement and strengthens democracy.

Past success - recent example(s) of a successful program/project. Partnerships and Collaboration – existing or planned partnerships. Evaluation Plan – how success will be measured.

Reports - define metrics and propose reporting structure. Deadline for LOI: 5:00 p. m.

September 30, 2026 (If invited to submit) Deadline for RFP: 5:00 p. m.

October 16, 2026 Notification of awards: November 17, 2026 Grant period begins: December 1, 2026 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.