Money Smart Wisconsin

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Governor Tony Evers proclaimed​ April 6 – 12, 2026, as Money Smart Wisconsin Week​ to raise awareness about the importance of financial literacy education and financial wellness. It is the highlight of April being National Financial Literacy Month, a collaborative effort by state and federal agencies and private-sector groups working to raise awareness about the importance of financial literacy. 

In Wisconsin, the Governor’s Council on Financial Literacy and Capability, in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), is spearheading the Money Smart Wisconsin campaign along with many volunteers and organizations throughout the state. The Money Smart Wisconsin campaign promotes financial literacy and awareness through financial education classes, activities, and opportunities for Wisconsin residents by bringing together different organizations and facilitating the sharing of expertise, leveraging limited resources, and expanding community participation in financial education efforts.

This year’s Money Smart Wisconsin campaign includes “The Big Read,” a statewide effort where adults at dozens of locations will read books with personal finance lessons to children in pre-kindergarten through fourth grade, and the Money S​​mart Wisconsin Scholarship Contest, where 16 graduating Wisconsin high school seniors will be recognized with a scholarship, in the form of a $1,000 contribution to a new or existing Edvest 529 account, for their winning essay submissions outlining how they plan to pay for the cost of college or career training. Wisconsin residents are also encouraged to start saving for higher education with the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program. The program offers two savings plans, Edvest 529 (direct-sold) and Tomorrow’s Scholar​ (advisor-sold), both administered by the DFI.

The Money Smart Wisconsin campaign was first launched in 2006 as an initiative of the Governor’s Council o​n Financial Literacy and Capability to encourage organizations across the state to get involved in financial literacy education efforts. Each year, volunteer partner organizations representing community groups, financial institutions, and government agencies educate Wisconsin residents at events throughout the state and online, too.

For additional information, contact the DFI’s Office of Financial Literacy, which provides information to the public on matters of personal finance and investor protection, with an emphasis on the financial and economic literacy of Wisconsin’s youth. This office also provides administrative support to the Governor’s Council on Financial Lit​eracy and Capability and administrative oversight of the Money Smart Wisconsin campaign. If you are interested in becoming a Money Smart Wisconsin partner, or have events to add to this webpage, please email David Mancl, DFI’s Office of Financial Literacy Director, at David.Mancl@dfi.wisconsin.gov.​

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Money Smart Wisconsin 2026 Highlighted Events:

Chippewa Valley:

Thursday, April 9:

• Free Event: “Financial Wellness Class” at Valley Sports Academy, 6 – 7 p.m. with time for questions and conversation after.
• Location: 1855 125th St, Lake Hallie, WI
• Description: Marine Credit Union and The United Way have partnered to bring a financial wellness class to the Eau Claire/Chippewa Valley Community at Valley Sports Academy. This class focuses on our relationship with our own finances and how that affects our overall wellness. This event is open to the public and will include free food, drinks, and childcare.
• Contact: Marie Jacobsen at Marie.Jacobsen@marinecu.com​

Crawford County:

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• Free Events: Money Smart Wisconsin – Extension Crawford County
• Description: Explore free sessions on financial wellness for individuals and families. Children can join “The Big Read” library story times and a money-themed playgroup at Hoffman Hall.
• Contact: UW-Madison, Division of Extension, Crawford County by calling (608) 326-0223 or emailing Amanda Griswold at Amanda.Griswold@wisc.edu

Wednesday, April 8:

• Free Event: Financial Scams and Artificial Intelligence Demonstration, at 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Community Commerce Center,16381 WI Highway 131, Gays Mills, WI
• Description: Learn about current fraud trends, how to spot warning signs, and what steps to take if you or someone you know is targeted. The session also includes a brief AI demonstration showing how scams are evolving. Hosted By: Royal Bank

Thursday, April 9:

• Free Event: Financial Scams and Artificial Intelligence Demonstration at 12:15 p.m.
• Location: Hoffman Hall,1600 S Wacouta Ave, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: Learn about current fraud trends, how to spot warning signs, and what steps to take if you or someone you know is targeted. The session also includes a brief AI demonstration showing how scams are evolving. Hosted By: Royal Bank
  

• Free Event: Community Seed Swap at 1 – 6 p.m.
• Location: Soldiers Grove Public Library,102 Passive Sun Dr, Soldiers Grove, WI
• Description: Celebrate spring by joining your community for a seed swap and hands on seed starting workshop led by local garden experts and Crawford County Master Gardeners. Learn about the Soldiers Grove Library’s Seed Library, start a seedling to take home, and discover how gardening can save money, promote healthy eating, and be fun for all ages. Hosted By: Soldiers Grove Public Library, Crawford County Master Gardeners, UW-Extension

• Free Event: “Duct Tape Wallet and Money Fun!” at 4:30 p.m.
• Location: Prairie du Chien Memorial Library,125 S Wacouta Ave, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: Participants will create their own duct tape wallet while learning about money-saving tips. Hosted By: Crawford County 4-H

Saturday, April 11:

• Free Event: Free Shred Event at 9 – 11 a.m.
• Location: Peoples State Bank – Downtown, 301 E Blackhawk Ave, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: All residents are permitted to bring three bags to be shredded (standard paper or clear plastic bags). Only paper will be accepted (no plastic, metal, or books). Recommended items include bills, bank statements, receipts, medical insurance, and tax records.

Tuesday, April 21:

• Free Event: “Create a Spending Plan: Shifting Away from the Traditional Budget Mindset” at 10:30 a.m.
• Location: Rivercrest Village, 1007 E Wisconsin St, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: Learn a more flexible, realistic way to manage your money without the stress of traditional budgets. This session focuses on creating a spending plan that works for your life. Hosted By: Couleecap Inc.

• Free Event: “Understanding Financial Trauma” at 1 p.m.
• Location: Crawford County Administration Building, 225 N Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: Learn how past experiences can shape how we think, feel, and act around money. This session helps participants recognize financial stress and respond with understanding and compassion. Hosted By: Couleecap Inc.

• Free Event: “Credit and Debt Management” at 5 p.m.
• Location: Crawford County Administration Building, 225 N Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: Get a clearer understanding of credit and debt in a supportive, judgment free space. Learn practical steps to reduce stress and move forward financially. Hosted By: Couleecap Inc.

• Free Event: Retirement Basics at 5 p.m.
• Location: Prairie du Chien Area Chamber of Commerce Community Room, 211 S Main St, Prairie du Chien, WI
• Description: Get a clearer understanding of credit and debt in a supportive, judgment free space. Learn practical steps to reduce stress and move forward financially. Hosted By: Peoples State Bank

Fox Cities:

• Free Events: Fox Cities Money Smart Wisconsin Week 2026 Activities
• Description: Fox Cities Events Flyer
• Contact: Katie Gellings at Katie.Gellings@wisc.edu​

Monday, April 6:

• Free Event: “The Big Read” at 10:15 a.m.
• Location: Muehl Public Library, 436 N Main Street, Seymour, WI
• Description: Join us for story time! We will read a children’s book, talk about saving money, and decorate a piggy bank. The first 25 families will receive a free book.

• Free Event: “An Introduction to Planning Ahead” at 6 p.m.
• Location: Neenah Public Library, 240 E Wisconsin Avenue, Neenah, WI
• Description: Give your loved ones the ultimate gift - peace of mind. Join UW Extension for a free overview of the Planning AHEAD program, designed to help you prepare for life’s most important decisions. This research-based workshop covers topics like financial changes, advance medical and legal directives, estate planning, final wishes, and understanding grief. Planning isn’t just for the elderly; at any age, a medical crisis could leave you unable to communicate your wishes. Start the conversation today and leave a legacy, not a mess.

Wednesday, April 8:

• Free Event: “The Big Read” at 10:30 a.m. 
• Location: Little Chute Public Library, 625 Grand Avenue, Little Chute, WI
• Description: Join us for story time! We’ll read a children’s book, talk about saving money, and decorate a piggy bank. The first 25 families will receive a free book.

Thursday, April 9:

• Free Event: “The Big Read” at 3:30 p.m.
• Location: Oshkosh Public Library, 106 Washington Avenue, Oshkosh, WI
• Description: Join us for story time! We’ll read a children’s book, talk about saving money, and decorate a piggy bank. The first 25 families will receive a free book.

Saturday, April 11:

• Free Event: “Make Money Count at the Museum” from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Location: Building for Kids, 100 College Avenue, Appleton, WI
• Description: Throughout the day, the museum will have activities that help kids and their grown-ups learn about earning, spending, sharing, and saving money. Families will be encouraged to choose a job to earn money, will have to track their expenses, brainstorm how they would like to share their money, and finally save their money at the museum’s Littlest Branch Fox Communities Credit Union. When families complete the Make Money Count activities, they will have the opportunity to choose from prizes! Welcome Baby event from 9 am, first-time parents are invited to join us for a presentation led by Goodwill on navigating finances with a new baby. Plus, families will enjoy interactive story times at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., offering even more engaging opportunities to learn about smart financial habits. The first 25 families will receive a free book.

Tuesday, April 21:

• Free Event: “The Big Read” at 4 p.m. 
• Location: Kimberly Public Library, 515 W Kimberly Avenue, Kimberly, WI
• Description: Join us for story time! We’ll read a children’s book, talk about saving money, and decorate a piggy bank. The first 25 families will receive a free book.

Wednesday, April 22:

• Free Event: “The Big Read” at 10 a.m.
• Location: Appleton Public Library, 200 N Appleton Street, Appleton, WI
• Description: Join us during Preschool Story Time as we share books, dance to music, and learn early math skills together.

Friday, April 24:

• Free Event: “The Big Read” at 10 a.m.
• Location: Appleton Public Library, 200 N Appleton Street, Appleton, WI
• Description: Join us during the Play Program as we share a short story and then enjoy playing.

Racine

Wednesday, April 8:

• Free Event: “Chart Your Course: Navigating Your Journey to Financial Empowerment” at the Racine Public Library from 4 – 6 p.m.
• Location: Racine Public Library, 75 7th Street, Racine, WI
• Description: Join us for a dynamic and interactive financial education workshop designed to help you take confident steps toward a stronger financial future. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your money-management skills, this session will offer practical tools, real world tips, and empowering guidance you can use right away. This event is free for the community, and we’ll be providing pizza along with practical resources to support attendees. Let’s make financial empowerment simple, engaging, and achievable – you won’t want to miss it!
• Contact: Aaron McCollum at Aaron.McCollum@marinecu.com​

Tuesday, April 21:

• ​Free Event: “Practical Steps to Financial Wellness” at the Racine Public Library from 4 – 6 p.m.
• Location: Racine Public Library, 75 7th Street, Racine, WI
• Description: Take a meaningful step toward a healthier financial future! Join us for an informative and interactive session focused on simple, practical strategies you can use to build stability and confidence with your money. Whether you're working on budgeting, saving, managing debt, or just looking to get more intentional with your finances, this workshop will equip you with tools you can put into action right away. Let’s walk the path to financial wellness together – you’re invited, and you belong in the conversation! This workshop is free, open to the public, and family friendly. Food and drinks will be provided.
• Contact: Aaron McCollum at Aaron.McCollum@marinecu.com​

Virtual Sessions:

UW Credit Union Money Smart Wisconsin Week Webinars:

UW Credit Union has compiled learning sessions during the week open to the public. Contact: Erin Bykowski at ebykowski@uwcu.org.

Tuesday, April 7:

• Free Event: “Using Credit Wisely” Webinar from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
• Description: This session highlights why credit matters and how it impacts financial opportunities. Participants will learn practical strategies for building credit from the ground up and managing it responsibly over time. The session aims to help attendees feel confident navigating and maintaining healthy credit. Register today!

Wednesday, April 8:

• Free Event: “First Time Homebuyers” Webinar from 1 – 2 p.m.
• Description: If you are thinking about buying a home or are simply wondering about the process, you have come to the right place! Attend our popular seminar to learn from our homebuying experts and get answers to all your questions. We will cover important topics and common issues such as preparing for your home search, getting preapproved, exploring different loan options, managing your budget and costs, understanding the mortgage process, reviewing the roles of everyone involved, and navigating current market conditions and trends. We will help you take the first step toward homeownership and develop a unique plan for your homebuying journey. This seminar is completely free, there is no obligation, and everyone is welcome to attend. Registration is required, so sign up today to reserve your place.

Thursday, April 9:

• Free Event: “Leverage Your Home's Equity” Webinar from 12 – 1 p.m.
• Description: This session provides an overview of common home equity options—such as home equity loans and lines of credit—and how they can be used for goals like home improvements, debt consolidation, or major expenses. Participants will learn how these products work, their potential benefits and risks, and what to consider before borrowing. The session also walks through the application process, so attendees know what to expect and how to prepare. Register​ today!​

NGPF Financial Literacy Month Virtual Conference:

Saturday, April 11:

• Free Event: Virtual Conference for Educators from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Registration: NGPF Financial Literacy Month Virtual Conference​
  
• Description: Celebrate Financial Literacy Month with NGPF! Join us for a full day of learning designed around your goals, your classroom, and your own financial confidence. Throughout the day, sessions are offered along three pathways so you can build a conference experience that fits exactly where you are: whether you're new to NGPF, building content confidence, or exploring classroom tools and resources — or mix and match across all three!

The ABLE National Resource Center is providing “ABLE to Save” Month Webinars:

Tuesday, April 7:

• Free Event: “Finding Funds to Maximize Your ABLE Contributions” from 2 – 3 p.m.
• Registration: ABLE National Resource Center
• Description: Saving in an ABLE account does not require having “extra” money. There are many events and milestones for which funds can be contributed, and funds can come from everyday sources such as employment income, family, friends, tax refunds, trusts, 529 qualified tuition plans and structured settlements. This session will explore creative and practical pathways to help people with disabilities build and grow their ABLE savings with confidence. This event features a panel of ABLE ambassadors who will share their lived experiences and a national subject matter expert who will share real-world strategies that promote ABLE account contributions.

Tuesday, April 14:

• Free Event: “Building Financial Independence: The ABLE Age Adjustment Act and Tools to Support Financial Empowerment” from 2 – 3 p.m.
• Registration: ABLE National Resource Center​
• Description: Join the Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center and their partners for an empowering webinar on financial independence for people with disabilities. Hear from National Disability Institute’s ABLE National Resource Center about recent updates to ABLE accounts and what they mean for individuals considering opening an account. The LEAD Center, a technical assistance provider funded by the Office of Disability Employment Policy, will highlight the Secure Your Financial Future toolkit, featuring financial literacy tools and resources designed to help all Americans, including individuals with disabilities, achieve greater financial stability at every stage of their employment journey. Plus, two ABLE ambassadors will share how using their ABLE accounts and the toolkit has helped them advance their independence within their communities.