Nonprofit Access Grant
Forecasted
Nonprofit Access Grant supports nonprofits providing devices, connectivity, and training to help Wisconsin residents facing income, disability, or high-cost barriers access affordable telecommunications.
Funder: Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 in total funding per fiscal year; grants cover up to 75% of project costs; two-year performance period for FY2026 awards
Summary: Supports nonprofit projects helping Wisconsin residents facing income, disability, or high-service-cost barriers access affordable essential telecommunications services.
Key Information: Applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits and provide at least 25% of total project costs as match.
Description
The Nonprofit Access Grant Program is administered by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) through the Wisconsin Universal Service Fund. It provides partial funding for nonprofit projects and programs that help low-income residents, people with disabilities, or customers in relatively high-cost areas of Wisconsin obtain affordable access to a basic set of essential telecommunications services.
Previously funded activities include providing data cards or hotspots, distributing laptops, phones, tablets or assistive devices, and delivering training needed to use telecommunications devices and services. Training examples include digital literacy, workforce development and cybersecurity skills. The program focuses on unmet public needs and cost-effective access. Successful projects typically do not depend on building construction, physical infrastructure, or proposed but uncommitted partner activities.
