2026 Grant Application

Applications are now open for Marquette Neighborhood Association's (MNA) Annual Grant with a submission deadline of Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm.

MNA grants provide financial support to neighborhood organizations, institutions, and small groups advancing projects and programs that benefit those who live, work, and play in Marquette. In 2025, MNA awarded roughly $100,000 in grants and community programming to strengthen and invest in our neighborhood. Historically, the average grant award has been between $500-$3000. Please see the links below for additional information and application materials.

2026 Grant Application Form - Please use this to submit your 2026 grant application, be sure to fill out all fields.

 

2026 Marquette Neighborhood Association Grant Application Guidelines

Each year, the Marquette Neighborhood Association (MNA) proudly awards small grants to non-profit organizations, community groups, and special projects. These grants are intended to fund innovative and inspiring efforts that enhance the quality of life in our neighborhood. (View a map of the Marquette Neighborhood boundaries.)

Application Submission Deadline: All applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 pm on January 31, 2026. Please use the following form for submission: 2026 Marquette Neighborhood Association Grant Application

Suggested Project Areas of Focus

  • Accessible and inclusive events that build community
  • Events, programs, and installations that serve our most vulnerable neighbors
  • Educational opportunities for children, adults, and/or families
  • Art projects and programs catering to children, adults, and/or families
  • Public art installations and events                                                             
  • Events, programs, and installations that promote a healthy environment and sustainable living
  • Initiatives that celebrate and explore the history of the Marquette neighborhood

Priority will be Given to Projects that Emphasize the Following

  • Fostering collaboration among individuals and neighborhood organizations
  • Promoting community resident participation and engagement
  • Advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, resilience, and belonging
  • Funding nonprofits headquartered within the Marquette neighborhood boundaries
  • Demonstrating complete and realistic planning and budgeting

General Guidelines

  • All programs must serve the Marquette neighborhood.
  • Proposals for innovative and creative ideas are encouraged.
  • Funds are NOT available for endowments, general operating expenses, religious or political purposes, or lobbying efforts.
  • Historically, the average grant award has been between $500-$3000
  • One application per entity is preferred. 

Application Procedure

As part of your online application, your grant submission must include a brief description (500 words or less) covering:

1. Project’s purpose and goals.

2. Clear identification of the audience to be served by the project 

3. Anticipated timeline for project completion.

4. A single-page budget, including costs and other sources of funding (if applicable) is also required.

End of Project Report: For funded projects, MNA requires a brief project report (500 words or less) within two months of completion of the project outlining how the objectives were achieved and how the funds were spent.

Conditions on use of Grant Funds

Grant funding must be used within one year from the date it is awarded. Requests for extensions due to unforeseen circumstances may be considered at the discretion of the MNA Board. Grant funds are designated solely for the activities or materials described in the grant proposal and may not be redirected to other projects.

Grantees are required to recognize MNA funding support by including the MNA logo in marketing and recognition materials developed to promote the project.

 

Examples from 2025

Please review the following links that include examples of successful grant applications and reports from 2025. These projects met the MNA grant requirements and performed strongly in the supplemental grant review criteria.

Grant Report - Arts & Literature Laboratory INC - MADE: Contemporary Fiber Arts  

Grant Request - Arts & Literature Laboratory INC - MADE: Contemporary Fiber Arts 

Grant Report - Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired - Gallery Night 2025 

Grant Request - Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired - Gallery Night 2025

 

Scholarships

MNA awards two scholarships annually to high school students with ties to the Marquette Neighborhood who plan to pursue post-secondary education. Ties to the neighborhood can include residency, employment, volunteering, school attendance, or involvement in community programs.

Each selected student will receive a two-year scholarship totaling $4,000 — awarded as $2,000 per year — to support their educational journey.

Scholarship applications are typically available in late winter or early spring. Please stay tuned for information about the next scholarship opportunity. Join MNA today to receive our newsletter and stay up to date on funding opportunities.

These opportunities are made possible thanks to funds raised at our two annual festivals and their generous sponsors. Join us at our next festival or donate today to support these public programs.