Supporting Local Initiatives That Help Our Community Thrive

Application Window: August 1 – September 30, 2026

Award Notifications: By October 15, 2026

Grant Amounts: Up to $500 per award

Who Can Apply: Community members, educators, nonprofit organizations, and small groups within the Chippewa Valley area

We're looking for projects that:

• Promote pollinator education or conservation
• Support environmental sustainability
• Engage the local community in meaningful ways
• Benefit schools, gardens, public spaces, or underserved populations

To ensure transparency, fairness, and consistency, the Chippewa Valley Bee Expo follows a clear grant policy that guides all aspects of our charitable giving. Here are the key points every applicant should know:

• Non-Discrimination: Grants are awarded without discrimination based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other personal characteristic. We are committed to equity and inclusion in supporting projects that benefit our community.
• Use of Funds: Grant funds must be used only for the purposes described in the application. Funds cannot be used for personal expenses, lobbying, political campaigns, or any activities unrelated to the approved project.
• Reporting Requirement: All grantees are required to submit a final report by March 15, 2027. This report should outline how the funds were used and describe the outcomes or impact of the project.
• Recognition: Grantees should acknowledge support from the Chippewa Valley Bee Expo in project materials, signage, social media posts, or other public communications wherever possible. This helps raise awareness about the positive work happening in our community.
• Non-Refundable Awards: If a project is canceled or significantly changed, any remaining funds may be requested to be returned to the Chippewa Valley Bee Expo.

At the Chippewa Valley Bee Expo, we carefully review each grant application to ensure funds support projects that align with our mission and make a meaningful impact.

Each application is scored on a 100-point scale across seven key areas:

• Alignment with Mission (20 points): How well does the project support pollinator health, environmental education, or sustainable beekeeping?
• Community Impact (20 points): What is the scope and sustainability of the project's benefits?
• Clarity & Feasibility (20 points): Is the project plan realistic and clearly explained?
• Budget & Use of Funds (15 points): Is the budget reasonable and focused on project goals?
• Innovation & Creativity (10 points): Does the project bring new ideas or approaches?
• Need & Justification (10 points): Does the applicant show a clear need for funding?
• Evaluation & Reporting (5 points): Is there a solid plan to measure and share results?