Grants
WARF grants have fueled a century of discovery at UW-Madison, empowering researchers to push the boundaries of knowledge and make groundbreaking advancements. Explore the pivotal grants that have driven innovation and transformed lives
Explore a Century of Innovation
Grants
1930
First Annual Grant Request:
Formalizing a Legacy of Support.
A seemingly simple letter to the WARF board on commencement weekend marked the beginning of a tradition that continues to this day: the annual grant request process. This structured approach ensures that WARF's funding consistently supports the most promising research at UW-Madison.
1932
First WARF-Sponsored Research Fellowships:
Championing Researchers Through Challenging Times.
Even during the Great Depression, WARF prioritized investing in human potential. By creating postdoctoral fellowships, WARF protected the careers of promising researchers, ensuring that scientific progress continued despite economic hardship. Learn More
1933
First WARF-Sponsored Professorship:
A Legacy of Conservation Takes Root.
WARF's support for the first Chair of Game Management, filled by the renowned Aldo Leopold, demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship that continues to this day. This investment helped shape the field of conservation and established the tradition of WARF-sponsored professorships at UW-Madison. Learn More
1938
First Grant for University Research Facilities:
Building a Foundation for Scientific Progress.
WARF's investment in the Biochemistry Building marked the beginning of a long-standing commitment to providing state-of-the-art research facilities at UW-Madison. This support has created an environment where innovation thrives, leading to countless discoveries. Learn More
1941 & 1942
Mortgages for Picnic Point and Arboretum Land:
Investing in Green Spaces for Generations to Enjoy.
WARF's commitment to UW-Madison extends beyond the laboratory. By financing the acquisition of Picnic Point and expanding the Arboretum, WARF demonstrated a dedication to preserving natural beauty and enriching the campus experience for all. Learn More
1947
Enzyme Institute Building:
Catalyzing a New Field of Research.
WARF's support for the Enzyme Institute established UW-Madison as a leader in enzymology. This investment not only fostered groundbreaking research but also attracted significant funding from the Rockefeller Foundation, further advancing scientific progress. Learn More
1951
University Houses Gift to UW-Madison:
Building a Community of Scholars.
WARF's donation of University Houses demonstrates a dedication to fostering a supportive environment for graduate students and young faculty. This generous gift continues to provide affordable housing and a sense of community for future generations of scholars. Learn More
1958
First Nobel Prize Awarded to WARF Grant Recipients:
Recognizing World-Changing Discoveries.
The Nobel Prize awarded to Joshua Lederberg and Edward Tatum marked a significant milestone for WARF grantees, showcasing the impact of WARF support for groundbreaking research in genetics and biochemistry. Learn More
1984
University Research Park:
Creating a Hub for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
WARF's support for University Research Park has fostered a thriving ecosystem for startups and technology companies, driving economic development and creating opportunities for UW-Madison researchers to translate their discoveries into real-world applications. Learn More
1997
IceCube Neutrino Observatory Grant:
Supporting Research at the Frontiers of Physics.
WARF's grant for the IceCube Neutrino Observatory pushed the boundaries of scientific knowledge and laid the groundwork for the project to receive one of the largest grants in NSF’s history. Learn More
2000
BioStar Initiative:
Investing in the Future of Biotechnology in Wisconsin.
WARF's partnership with Governor Tommy Thompson on the BioStar initiative demonstrates a commitment to strengthening Wisconsin's nation-leading biotechnology sector and fostering innovation across the state. Learn More
2006
Morgridge Institute for Research:
Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration for Human Health.
The establishment of the Morgridge Institute for Research, supported by WARF and the Morgridge family, has created a dynamic environment for interdisciplinary research focused on advancing human health. Learn More
2009
WARF Accelerator:
Accelerating the Path to Commercialization.
WARF Accelerator provides critical support and funding for early-stage technologies, bridging the gap between research and commercialization and strengthening the pipeline to successful startups. Learn More
2010
Grand Opening of the Discovery Building:
A Hub for Interdisciplinary Discovery.
The Discovery Building, a testament to public-private partnership, provides a state-of-the-art facility for collaborative research, fostering innovation and driving progress in diverse fields. Learn More
2017
Eleventh Nobel Prize Given to a WARF Grant Recipient:
A Legacy of Nobel-Winning Research.
The numerous Nobel Prizes awarded to WARF-supported researchers highlight the profound impact of WARF's investments in scientific discovery and human potential. Learn More
2019
WARF Therapeutics:
Accelerating the Development of Human Therapeutics.
WARF Therapeutics represents a dedicated effort to translate promising drug candidates into life-saving therapies, building on WARF's long history of success in this critical area. Learn More
2021
Largest Single-Year Grant:
Unprecedented Support for UW-Madison's Mission.
WARF's record-breaking grant in FY22 underscores a steadfast commitment to empowering UW-Madison's research endeavors and ensuring its continued excellence in education and discovery. Learn More