March 24, 2026
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR), State and Local Finance Division would like to remind you of the upcoming March 31, 2026 Innovation Grant application (Form SL-405) deadline.
If your local government is planning to implement an innovation plan to transfer allowable services or duties, we encourage you to immediately submit your application to ensure you are considered for this substantial funding opportunity.
Innovation Grant Details
- Application deadline – March 31, 2026
- Total available funding – total of $300 million statewide
- Grant limit – up to $10 million a year per entity
- Who can apply? – Wisconsin counties, municipalities, and tribal nations
Note:
- Form SL-405 is available to county and municipal clerks and tribe representatives. If you are not a clerk or a tribe representative and would like to apply, go to MyDORGov and request access to the form from the clerk or tribe representative
- To be eligible for a 2026 fiscal year (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026) grant payment, the service/duty transfer effective date cannot be after June 30, 2026
Steps to Apply
- Finalize your innovation plan – ensure you have a signed contract or agreement between the transferor and the transferee
- Access Form SL-405 within MyDORGov
- Submit electronically – complete and e-file Form SL-405 along with required supporting documentation (ex: cost spreadsheets, summary pages, and the signed agreement)
Future Grant Opportunity
If the total available funding for the Innovation Grant program is not allocated, DOR will launch a second application round in fall 2026. Note: Any awards granted during the proposed second round would be eligible for a maximum of four annual payments.
Available Resources
Review resources on our Innovation Grant web page, including:
- Common questions and factsheet
- Project examples
- Form SL-405 Instructions
Questions?
- Contact us at lgs@wisconsin.gov
- You can also reach out to us directly at (608)-266-1932 or (608)-266-5815 to schedule a session to discuss your grant ideas