Apply for a Columbus Area Endowment Grant
CAE is dedicated to enhancing the educational, cultural and economic vitality of the Columbus area for present and future generations. It supports the community’s quality of life through charitable grants. Interest areas include cultural enrichment, community development, education, environment and historic preservation.
CAE awards grants to nonprofit organizations that serve the Columbus and Fall River communities in parts of Dane, Columbia and Dodge Counties.
Specifically, we provide:
- Program grants that support new programs or expand existing programs that have a track record of success.
- Capital grants that support construction or purchase of facilities, land, vehicles or equipment.
Grant applications are due by September 1.
CAE Grant Guidelines
- CAE may award grants of up to $6,000
- Grant recipients are limited to one grant per 12-month grant cycle, as set by dates of award letters
- Grant recipients must submit a final report. Download a blank CAE grant evaluation report
- Grant applications must include proof of 501(c)(3) nonprofit status
Submit Grant Applications by September 1 to:
or email to
columbusendowment@gmail.com
Recent Grants
Each year, the Philanthropy Committee of the Columbus Area Endowment awards grants to local organizations working to strengthen our community.
In 2024, CAE awarded grants to:
- Columbus Area Aquatic Center: for new furniture
- Columbus Historical Society: toward improvements at its new museum
- Columbus Historic Landmarks Preservation: toward improvements at the Rest Haven building in Fireman’s Park
- Columbus Public Library: toward an accessible circulation desk
- Columbus Recreation: toward a new water fountain in Fireman’s Park
- Columbus School District Food Services: toward a new oven
- Savanna Oaks Community Center: toward an outdoor refreshment center
- Scout Troop 99: toward a new camping trailer
