New Wisconsin Fast Forward worker training grants available now
About $5 million in total funding is available to Wisconsin employers for worker training through the Wisconsin Fast Forward (WFF) grant program. This new grant opportunity available from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development is open to employers of all sizes and from all industry sectors to fund innovative and collaborative customized worker training programs.
Key features of the program:
- Grants are available to companies of any size in all industry sectors.
- Grant award amounts range from $5,000 to $400,000. A consortium of employers may apply for more than $400,000.
- Cash or in-kind match equal to 50% of the grant award amount is required.
- Grantees must complete training of at least 85% of the contracted number of trainees.
- At least 75% of incumbent trainees must receive increased wages.
Applications are due by 3p.m. Central Time on Monday, Oct. 5, 2026.
Find additional information or apply on the WFF website.
John Roos
Director, Office of Skills Development
Department of Workforce Development
(608) 733-3918
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USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation Grants Program Open for Applications
Non-profit Organizations, Tribal Governments and Public Agencies can Apply Through September 8, 2026
(Stevens Point, Wis., August 24, 2026) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development is accepting applications now through September 8, 2026, for the Housing Preservation Grants Program.
The Housing Preservation Grants Program awards qualified organizations with funding to repair or rehabilitate homes, rental properties, or co-ops occupied by low- and very-low-income residents in rural areas. Eligible applicants include government entities, federally recognized Indian Tribes, non-profit organizations, and faith-based organizations.
“The Housing Preservation Grants program makes it more affordable for families, seniors and individuals with disabilities to remain in their homes with the accessibility and security that is needed so they can live independently,” said USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson. “These investments support local organizations that are strengthening communities across rural Wisconsin while helping people meet basic housing needs.”
The Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity is just one example of the many rural Wisconsin organizations using funding through the Housing Preservation Grants Program to help homeowners.
“Housing Preservation Grants are often the bridge that allows organizations like Habitat for Humanity to help homeowners facing critical repair needs that would otherwise go unmet,” said Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity Vice President of Philanthropy and Donor Relations Amy McGowan. “For many rural residents, there simply are not other resources available to address urgent health, safety, or accessibility concerns. This program makes it possible for organizations like Habitat to provide repairs that improve safety, accessibility, and overall quality of life. These investments do more than repair homes. They help families remain stable, preserve existing housing stock, and strengthen the communities we serve.”
Housing Preservation Grants can assist low-income homeowners with making essential health and safety updates to their homes, which include:
- Insulation and combination storm windows and doors
- Repair or replacement of the roof
- Replacement of severely deteriorated siding, porches or stoops
- Installation or extension of plumbing, mechanical or electrical systems of existing units
- Alterations of the unit interior or exterior to provide greater accessibility for any handicapped family member
- Other components described as eligible assistance activities in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1944.664
For questions or for assistance with applications, please email USDA Rural Development Wisconsin Acting Housing Director Jill Lindholm at: Jillian.Lindholm@usda.gov. Additional information on the Housing Preservation Grants Program is available online.
For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making investment data accessible to the public.
Learn more online at www.rd.usda.gov/wi, subscribe to GovDelivery updates, and follow us on X at @RD_Wisconsin.
Business Loan/Grant Loan – Waupaca County Economic Development Corporation
The Waupaca County Economic Development Corporation (WCEDC) has introduced a new loan/grant program aimed at supporting the improvement of businesses, and older commercial buildings in Waupaca County downtown’s. This initiative fosters economic growth, community development, and cultural preservation by providing financial aid to businesses located in an older commercial building.
After getting approved for an RLF loan (max is $100,000), business owners that own their older commercial buildings can apply for an additional grant (up to $50,000 or equal to approved RLF loan amount) for eligible building improvement projects. The program serves as an additional way to reduce the burden of building maintenance for business owners that own older commercial property and seek to start or enhance their businesses. Please contact us to discuss your project and verify grant funds are still available.
USDA Rural Development Loans
WHEDA More Like Home Repair & Renew Loan
If your home was built before 1984, there’s a good chance it may need repairs. That’s why Wisconsin’s governing body has committed $50 million to help revive our communities.
With the More Like Home™ Repair and Renew Loan, homeowners will get the repairs needed to renew their living spaces for years to come. Here, our support is more than just monetary—it’s a commitment to helping your house feel more like home. Find a lender and start today.
https://morelikehomeloan.wheda.com/
WHEDA Vacancy-to-Vitality Loan Program
This new funding source allows a developer to apply for subordinate financing that covers the construction costs associated with converting a Vacant or Underutilized commercial building into Workforce Housing or Senior Housing. Both rental and for-sale homes are eligible under the Program if they meet the affordability requirements outlined in the term sheet. Funding will be provided by WHEDA through a low-interest loan that is subordinate to other funding sources, as described in the Act. Please refer to the term sheet for origination fees, loan structuring fees,
and application fees. For more information click here: https://www.wheda.com/developers-and-property-managers/competitive-loan-financing/vacancy-to-vitality
Small Business Development Center – UW Stevens Point
In partnership with the SBDC – UW-Stevens Point, the Chamber strives to provide members with educational opportunities to ensure a successful business! Click the link for more information on opportunities through SBDC – https://www3.uwsp.edu/conted/Pages/SBDC.aspx.
Free Adult Literacy Programs and Volunteer Opportunities with Fox Valley Literacy
Fox Valley Literacy provides free tutoring, classes, and online learning resources for adults in Outagamie, Waupaca, northern Winnebago and northern Calumet counties. They are also looking for volunteers to include adult tutors, childcare, transportation, & office help. No teaching experience is required.
Services offered:
- Reading and writing
- English language
- Math
- HSED/GED prep
- College prep
- Computer & Digital Skills
- US Citizenship
- Hmong languate
- Financial skills
- Workforce skills
- Career prep
920-234-8041 – call or text