Go Outside Fund

Connecting children to Wisconsin’s outdoors

We know that nature provides tremendous physical and mental health benefits – yet today’s children spend less than 1% of their time outside. The Go Outside Fund provides funding that helps connect youth to outdoor, nature-based learning experiences. Teachers or partner organizations may apply for funding to cover costs that facilitate getting kids outside and hands-on with nature, such as purchasing field supplies, or paying for transportation, substitute teachers, or educator costs. Grants between $100 and $500 are available.

The Go Outside Fund is made possible by donations from NRF members and the Teachers’ Outdoor Environmental Education Fund.

Grantmaking Priorities:

• Grant applications must include a significant component of outdoor activity.
• Grant applications must directly engage children in outdoor, nature-based learning or facilitate access to the outdoors.
• Grant applications that align with classroom learning and standards are encouraged but not required.

Eligibility:

• Applicant must be one of the following: a public charity with approved 501(c)(3) exempt status (under section 509(a)(1), 509(a)(2), or 509(a)(3) Type I and Type II); a federal, state, or local governmental unit, an American Indian nation or tribal community; or an accredited school, college, or university. The following types of organizations are not eligible for funding: individuals; businesses; section 509(a)(3) Type III supporting organizations; private foundations; and private operating foundations.
• Project must directly engage youth age pre-K – 12.
• Projects must benefit Wisconsin students.
• Project activities must take place 6 weeks or more after the Go Outside Fund due date.
• Project expenses may not have incurred prior to submitting the application.

How to Apply:

1. Determine if your project addresses our grantmaking priorities and meets our eligibility requirements.
2. Complete the application (paper copies of applications are not accepted).
3. Include proof of IRS tax-exempt status (IRS form 501c3 tax determination letter) or letter of support from school administration.
4. Submit all materials to Marie at NRFgrants@WisConservation.org by March 1st or September 1st.
5. Applicants will be notified six weeks following the submission deadline.

Other Funding Opportunities

• Nature Express
• Wheels to Woods Program