Madison Bikes is a small, all-volunteer organization. We recognize that there are many other amazing groups, organizations, and people in Madison that work in the bicycle space and are aligned with our vision. Our small grant program is meant to provide financial support groups and people in this space. We’re especially interested in supporting projects run by people who have traditionally been underinvested in and/or are underrepresented in the bike space, including people of color, women, transgender people, people with low income, people with disabilities. Madison Bikes invites individuals and non-profit organizations to apply for funds to help offset the costs associated with organizing projects and events that support safe and comfortable access to bicycling in Madison and are aligned with our vision:
We envision a city where anyone can ride a bicycle conveniently and comfortably to any place in the city and neighboring communities year round.
- What can you request funding for: In general, we want to fund specific projects, events, or provide seed funding. We do not provide funding for on-going, routine operations. We do not provide funding for charity ride participation or fundraising.
- Funding amount: Typical grants are between $200-$500. However, we have granted larger requests on a case-by-case basis. Generally, we will only give one grant per calendar and applicant.
- Eligibility: Applicants are limited to non-profits, individuals, or groups of individuals. For-profit businesses are not eligible (but groups of employees of a for-profit business are). If you have questions about your eligibility, reach out to us.
- The applicant or the project being funded must be in the Madison area.
- Review process: All funding requests will be reviewed by two Madison Bikes board members. They will review applications based on criteria such as how they align with our vision, the amount of funding available, the impact of the proposed project, and previous requests from the applicant. Usually we will be able to get back to you with a decision within two weeks. In some cases, applications will be decided by the whole board. In that case you will receive a decision about your application no later than 2 months after you submitted the application.
- Reporting requirements: We request that all grantees write up a very brief report at the end of the calendar year on how they used the grant and what impact it had. Photos are great! These reports will be included in the Madison Bikes annual report and highlighted on our website.
If you have any questions about the application process, please contact Liz Jesse.