Applications Due Aug. 15
MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is accepting applications for the Shooting Range Grant Program through Aug. 15, 2026.
The grant program provides financial assistance for safe and accessible firearm or archery recreational shooting opportunities for the public. Managers of public or private shooting ranges or members of the public interested in building a new range are encouraged to apply. Ideal ranges are located near highly populated areas and offer educational programming for the public related to hunting and shooting sports. Ranges operating as a for-profit business are not eligible for funding.
Previous projects awarded grant funding include renovating or constructing backstops, shooting benches, restrooms and indoor ranges. Former grant winners can apply again.
The grant program is administered as a reimbursement grant for incurred expenses. All new construction must be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The 2026 grant cycle will have $600,000 available for range improvement projects. In 2025, the DNR awarded the full program budget of $600,000 to 10 projects, leveraging $238,900 in matching contributions and $838,900 in total project costs.
Prior to submitting a completed application, all applicants are required to contact either Sarah Brenner, DNR Shooting Range Grant Program manager, at Sarah.Brenner@wisconsin.gov or 715-894-8666 or Brett Johanen, DNR public shooting range manager, at Brett.Johanen@wisconsin.gov or 608-772-4928 to discuss their interest in applying.
The shooting range grant funding is made possible by a federal excise tax on firearms, ammunition and archery equipment through the Pittman-Robertson Act.
More information about applying, eligible items and resources can be found on the DNR’s Shooting Range Grant Program webpage.
