Responders grants open until June 15

The Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) Foundation is building on its support for local first responders working to keep communities safe.

The foundation is providing $75,000 to help police, fire and emergency medical services (EMS) agencies improve public safety through the Rewarding Responders Grant program.

Emergency response agencies can apply for a grant through June 15.

The Rewarding Responders Grant helps northeast and north-central Wisconsin first responders acquire lifesaving equipment or training. The program helps departments meet vital equipment needs — from protective clothing and handheld lights to heavy-duty rescue tools — that increase safety for everyone in their communities.

Since the program began, the WPS Foundation has awarded nearly $700,000 to help more than 220 individual agencies strengthen public safety.

Emergency response agencies can apply for a 2026 grant on the WPS Foundation’s website.

Public safety agencies are eligible for a grant if they operate in the WPS electric or natural gas service area, did not receive a grant in 2025, complete the online grant application, and demonstrate the equipment or training they will acquire is part of a well-designed effort to improve public safety. Grants also can be used for unique safety-related projects that are one-time efforts.
Grants of up to $2,000 are available to eligible departments.

Learn more or apply for the grant at wecenergygroup.com/community/wps-rewarding-responders-grant.htm.