Best Cycling Grants in Illinois

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running bicycle advocacy and biking access projects in Illinois can apply for $500 - $5,000 to expand daily ridership and break down barriers for riders. With a mission to strengthen community connections, New Belgium Brewing provides grassroots groups across the U.S. and Puerto Rico with support for inclusive, equity-focused cycling initiatives.

Illinois cycling clubs, trail associations, and other cycling organizations can access funding through Devinci for community cycling development projects, including new trails, facilities, equipment, and participation initiatives. This North America-wide program offers up to C $5,000 for projects carried out in Canada or the U.S., so eligible Illinois groups may apply for local cycling projects this year.

Nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and current Riding For Focus grantees in Illinois can apply for Outride’s Community Impact Grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $15,000 for cycling programs. Funding supports initiatives that expand equitable access to cycling and promote its social, emotional, and cognitive benefits, especially for youth and aging populations.

Public Title 1 middle schools in Illinois serving mostly low-income students can obtain a complete school-based cycling education program, including bikes, helmets, curriculum, and teacher training. Grants from Outride help cycling programs introduce 6th–8th graders to safe riding while supporting their cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional well-being through the Riding for Focus initiative.

Illinois biking and trail-focused government agencies, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and qualified mountain bike clubs can access funding through the Trail Accelerator Grants spring cycle for professional trail planning and design services. Grants from International Mountain Bicycling Association range from US $10,000 - US $30,000 and require a 1:1 match for projects that expand mountain bike access and community benefits.

Target Foundation

At Target Foundation, we envision a world where all families and communities have the resources they need to determine and realize their own joy in life. It’s a reality that is out of reach for far too many families as they struggle for access to economic opportunity, financial stability and the kind of empowerment that lifts up their communities. We believe we have a responsibility to work to remove barriers and to help create that access, resulting in a world where all families can thrive.

Community Engagement Funds

Community Engagement Funds (CEF) is a community grant program that empowers Target stores and distribution center leaders to make meaningful, localized giving decisions that meet the needs of the communities where our team members and guests live, work, and thrive.

• Organizations cannot apply for the same program in both grant cycles.
• Organizations are encouraged to apply during the cycle that best aligns with their program timing.
• A maximum of 10 applications is allowed per organization at any time.

CEF will prioritize nonprofit programs and initiatives aligned to its focus areas:

• Thriving Families; Basic needs and youth development..
• Vibrant Neighborhoods: Community vitalization; Community and green spaces.
• Emerging Creative & Culture: Cultural partnerships and creative programming.
• Economic Opportunity: Workforce development.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. offering education access for children, domestic violence survivor support, or physical and mental health services can receive up to US $25,000 for specific programs or projects. Grants from Mildred's Dream Foundation help Illinois biking and youth-focused groups if their cycling-related work advances these priority areas.

Illinois 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking up to US $10,000 for arts and culture, education, health, human services, or civic initiatives can access funding through the James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation. Cycling and biking organizations that fit these program areas may be eligible for project, capital, or general operating support, within the foundation’s national U.S. grantmaking scope.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Large Grants for requests exceeding $10,000. Focused on fostering positive change, the foundation supports initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Eligibility includes 501(c)(3) organizations, while restrictions apply to consecutive grant cycles and non-qualifying purposes such as endowments and fundraising events. Organizations are encouraged to apply for various projects to enhance community well-being.

The Get Out and Get Active Grant by the Anxiety & Depression Initiative supports innovative projects that promote the mental health benefits of physical activity. This funding aims to reduce anxiety and depression through community fitness programs and educational campaigns, emphasizing the intersection of physical activity and mental health. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and academic institutions in the U.S. seeking to enhance well-being and integrate active lifestyles for individuals living with mental illness.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and other charitable organizations in Illinois working to fight poverty through hunger relief, housing, education, workforce development, or veteran services may be eligible for this support. Grants from Journey for Good Foundation help North American organizations strengthen communities with holistic programs that address food access, job readiness, and stability for economically vulnerable people.

U.S. nonprofit professional development providers, school districts, and colleges improving early childhood education access can seek up to US $500,000 over three years for large-scale educator workforce models. With a mission to strengthen early learning, Stranahan Foundation provides funding for innovation, coaching, leadership development, and substitute teacher pools, which may benefit Illinois organizations serving mostly low-income children birth to kindergarten.

Illinois biking and cycling organizations can access funding through Gilead Sciences Foundation to address health disparities, social determinants of health, and STEM education within their communities. Nonprofits in Illinois and across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and South America may be eligible for programs that build healthier, more equitable environments and expand educational opportunities.

Advocacy-focused 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, subsidiaries, and eligible LLCs in Illinois can seek funding to test and grow independent revenue-generation projects. Grants from Progressive Multiplier Fund help U.S. groups working on democracy, justice, and environmental issues build sustainable income, which may benefit cycling or biking advocates engaged in campaigns and civic engagement.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charities working on social justice, humanitarian aid, public health, arts, or basic needs support can apply for Looking Out Foundation’s grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $25,000. Illinois organizations with biking or active-transportation programs that also serve LGBTQIA2S+ communities, displaced people, or mental health needs may be competitive.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting women’s and children’s education and skills training in Illinois can apply for grants from the Kathryn McQuade Foundation, with awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $50,000. Programs that promote financial independence, job readiness, and educational access may be eligible, including initiatives that incorporate biking-related activities for youth or girls.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and schools working on hunger, youth and education, or health and nutrition programs can apply for funding that serves communities in Shaw's operating areas, including Illinois. Grants from Shaw's Supermakets Charitable Foundation help Illinois biking and cycling groups that also address food access, youth, or healthy eating initiatives. Applications are submitted online and reviewed regionally.

Small to medium 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects in Illinois can access funding through Sparkplug Foundation for early-stage education, community organizing, and music initiatives grounded in social justice. Projects in the U.S. and Palestine/Israel that build community power, address oppression, and develop new, community-led ideas may be eligible.

The WKKF Grant, offered by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is dedicated to fostering a future where every child and family thrives. With a focus on nurturing early education, accessible healthcare, and equitable food systems, this grant supports initiatives that empower communities across the U.S. and parts of Mexico and Haiti. Organizations meeting IRS regulations and being legal entities, particularly 501(c)(3) nonprofits, are encouraged to apply for funding to create lasting impacts in their communities.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Petco Foundation offers grants aimed at animal welfare organizations, focusing on enhancing adoption and medical care initiatives. With a commitment to lifesaving programs, they invest in organizations that demonstrate accountability and significant impact in their communities. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, municipal agencies, and SPCA/humane societies that provide sheltering services. The grant cycle allows for one proposal submission per year, ensuring support for those dedicated to improving the welfare of companion animals.

Illinois 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing free mental or physical recovery programs for active-duty military, veterans, or their families can access funding through Infinite Hero Foundation for innovative treatment initiatives. Grants up to US $100,000 support program costs in areas like physical rehabilitation, brain health, suicide prevention, leadership development, and family support, not general operations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Illinois seeking support for animal-related, education, human services, or religion-related programs can apply for grants of US $5,000 - US $10,000. Grants from William E. Dean III Charitable Trust help U.S. groups, including those with biking or cycling initiatives that fit these areas, advance charitable and educational work.