Community Shares Of Wisconsin Incorporated
Community Shares of Wisconsin (CSW) is a Madison-based nonprofit coalition that supports a network of member organizations working on social, economic, and environmental justice. CSW organizes programs such as The Big Share (an annual day of giving) and administers donor-advised and small grant programs to benefit its member nonprofits. The site lists contact details, staff, member information, and recent news through March 2026.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A Wisconsin-based nonprofit working on social, economic, or environmental justice that is part of or connected to the local membership/coalition network and seeks general operating support.
Good Fit
- • Organization is based in Wisconsin or serves Wisconsin communities.
- • Mission aligns with social justice, civic engagement, education, or environmental conservation.
- • Has existing ties to the local coalition or participates in The Big Share or similar CSW activities.
- • Seeks general operating support in the typical award size range (~$5K–$50K).
- • Can demonstrate local credibility and ongoing program stability.
Geography
Observed giving is highly state-focused: two states appear in filings but about 99% of dollars and grants are concentrated in Wisconsin.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows roughly 61 distinct, independent recipients across civic, environmental, education and social-justice causes, indicating a broad recipient set for the funder's size despite geographic concentration.
New Applicants
Direct evidence shows a relationship-driven portfolio with a high returning-recipient rate (about 59 repeat grantees and two new grantees in the latest year); a public website and staff contact exist but no formal application process is posted, so new entrants are possible but appear infrequent.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
