Best Chicago Grants for Nonprofits in Illinois

IDNR Mission Statement

To manage, conserve and protect Illinois' natural, recreational and cultural resources, further the public's understanding and appreciation of those resources, and promote the education, science and public safety of Illinois' natural resources for present and future generations.

Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant

Purpose

Projects must emphasize student/youth involvement with planning, development and maintenance and increase the educational and wildlife habitat values of the site. The applicant must be prepared to maintain and commit resources to the project for at least five years. The project must be implemented on school grounds or another public place (for example, a park or nature center/forest preserve district land). Illinois Conservation Foundation sites and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) sites do not qualify for funding. Admission fees cannot be charged to obtain access to the site. Individual student projects will not be funded.

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant includes three options: Option One; Option Two; and Option Three.

Option Three: For Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas schools that have no soil on their school grounds for planting

Option Three is for schools only in Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas that have no soil on their school grounds in which to plant. Other schools may be considered if they have no soil around their school. This is not for every school to use instead of putting plants in the ground. It is creating a container garden at your school to have native species onsite. It must be developed following the criteria stated in the instructions for the application form. Schools that choose this option have additional reporting that needs to be done as they will be part of a scientific study. You must check with us before you apply for this grant. 

Funding requests will include containers, insulation, soil, plants, and mulch.

This grant will pay for the purchase of simple gardening tools such as child- and adult-sized gloves, spades, shovels, rakes, trowels and hoes. Tool costs shall not account for more than 25% of the total project cost.

Nicor Gas offers the Pillar Grants program to support organizations focused on Basic Human Needs and Energy Assistance. These grants, capped at $5,000, aim to address immediate needs such as food, shelter, and clothing for individuals within Nicor Gas' service area. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations that contribute to community stability and wellness, ensuring critical support for those facing challenges.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant supports educational programs that enhance community quality of life. Focused on fostering self-sufficiency and job readiness, the Foundation values strong relationships and employee engagement. By funding diverse non-profit initiatives, it aims to ensure that all children have access to quality education and that communities thrive through enhanced educational opportunities. Currently, applications are invited only, aligning with their commitment to impactful community partnerships.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Colonel Stanley R. McNeil Foundation Grant, established in 1993, supports quality educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations, especially children. The foundation encourages start-up initiatives and multi-year funding requests, while prioritizing organizations with operating budgets under $1 million. It distinctly favors charitable organizations that honor its founders, Colonel Stanley R. McNeil and his wife, Merna, and considers requests for naming opportunities. However, grants for individuals and capital projects are generally not accepted.

FY27 CSI Intact Family Recovery

Description 

This grant award will have an initial period of performance starting in FY27 (07/01/2026 (or upon execution of the agreement) through 06/30/2029). A budget should be submitted for FY27 only.

Program Description

The Provider, in partnership with the Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA) Agency, will deliver services to families in three phases, with a different intensity of service provided during each phase. The Provider will provide the majority of home visits, with the aim of assuring child safety, while improving family functioning. This intervention model provides coordinated child welfare and substance abuse treatment supports to the intact family geared toward preventing the need for progression to substitute care placement. The child welfare agency will also be responsible for meeting all DCFS and project specific data and reporting requirements. Reports will be based on the child welfare worker's own observations as well as information gained from the AODA provider, during the period when the caretaker is in AODA treatment.

Aside from arranging for substance abuse treatment, funded through the DHS - DCFS Family Recovery Partnership, Medicaid, and DHS grant monies, the AODA provider, through subcontract, provided to this Agreement, will provide transportation, parenting services, enhanced outreach, early childhood and family life education, home visits to families, extended case management during treatment, and extended aftercare services. The AODA provider will also submit written reports on IFR clients as necessary.

Either the Provider or AODA Agency will have the ability to provide family therapy, psychological and psychiatric assessments (either through community linkages, internally, or through sub-contracts), and brief therapy when indicated by the needs of a particular family or client.

Early intervention for age-appropriate children and family planning information will also be provided, either through community linkages or by one of the entities in the partnership.

The Intact Family Recovery model is designed to deliver full case responsibility casework services, including AOD treatment and child welfare services to those families, reported to the Department for the birth of a substance-exposed infant or risk due to ongoing substance abuse, where the decision has been made that the family can safely remain intact.

Time frames and phases of the program are based on the individual family’s needs. However, program experience and best practice indicate that the time periods and program phases will be the expected time frames for most program families. IFR staff will document a parent’s movement through the program phases (in both directions) on the IFR form established to track the parent’s current phase of services. These completed forms shall be placed in the case file.

The Christopher Family Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations focused on employment, entrepreneurship, and food security, primarily in Chicago's Austin neighborhood. They aim to support pathways to family-sustaining wages, foster local entrepreneurship, and enhance food access. Eligibility includes organizations that demonstrate excellence, collaborative learning, and a commitment to the community. The foundation prefers programmatic support and does not fund individuals, governmental entities, or housing services. Overall, CFF seeks to empower the community and improve quality of life.

RFP Focus: Next Generation Power-Building

Polk Bros. Foundation Goal:

Fostering a Participatory, Multiracial Democracy

Overview:

With this RFP, Polk Bros. Foundation seeks to nurture and elevate the civic leadership and brilliance that we know is abundant among young people across Chicago’s neighborhoods by supporting youth-led collective action initiatives that address specific issues of significance to young Chicagoans (up to age 26). 

The PLTW Launch program, in partnership with the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education access for underserved communities. This initiative supports schools in implementing PLTW Launch modules, fostering equitable opportunities for students. With a commitment to enroll at least 50% of students from the Free and Reduced Lunch program, the program focuses on real-world skills development to prepare youth for future challenges. The goal is to empower one million students by 2030.

The Cook County Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) aims to enhance homeless assistance through funding ranging from $25,000 to $125,000. This grant supports a variety of activities, including homeless prevention, rapid re-housing, emergency shelter services, and street outreach. It emphasizes collaboration between recipients and the Continuum of Care to improve service delivery and performance outcomes, ensuring effective use of resources to combat homelessness in the community.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Chicago, Illinois working on education, human services, or healthcare initiatives can access funding through the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund for program or operations support. Priority goes to efforts addressing poverty’s root causes, including housing stability, food security, adult education, and accessible primary, dental, mental health, and other clinic-based care.

The Lake Forest Garden Club Grant supports community initiatives focused on gardening, horticultural education, and conservation. It prioritizes projects in Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lake County, Illinois. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply for funding for public, accessible projects such as environmental education and historic garden restoration. The club aims to partner with groups that share its mission of enhancing community engagement and promoting sustainable practices, with a preference for single-year projects.

NM Community Impact Donations

Introduction

Northwestern Medicine provides financial support to designated nonprofit organizations and governmental and public entities that are working to address identified community health priorities. Many needs are determined during each hospital’s Community Health Needs Assessment, which is conducted every three years. View a list of priority health needs for each hospital.

The Dow Promise Grant empowers communities by addressing the unique barriers faced by Black youth and adults in the U.S. This program provides grants up to $10,000 for initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental advancements. Since its inception in 2000, the Dow Promise Program has been committed to fostering equitable opportunities and positive social change, ultimately contributing to long-term community success and a brighter future for all.

Nicor Gas offers Pillar Grants for Community Enrichment, focusing on enhancing the vitality and livability of neighborhoods within its service area. Grants support nonprofit organizations engaged in cultural, community service, and stabilization efforts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that contribute to mental health, social services, and civic development. Funding is capped at $5,000, and applications are encouraged from those addressing significant community needs.

The GIRLS Mentorship Program, organized by Chicago Women in Philanthropy, empowers young girls through mentorship and leadership development. This initiative connects 4th to 6th graders from Holy Family School with CWIP members, offering bi-monthly sessions that cover essential topics. Additionally, the program hosts a High School Career Conference for sophomore girls, facilitating interactions with women across various fields. This dual approach fosters personal growth and professional networking, ensuring that participants gain valuable insights and support.

The Elizabeth Morse Genius Charitable Trust Grant focuses on grants that promote values-based initiatives addressing various community needs, particularly in Chicago and Cook County. It supports 501(c)(3) organizations that relieve human suffering, enhance self-esteem, and encourage athletic activities. The Trust emphasizes regional solutions to local challenges, ensuring that the quality of life improves for all citizens. Organizations outside the area may apply if they serve a significant number of Chicago residents.

The Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to bolster rural communities by providing funding for essential emergency response equipment for volunteer fire, rescue, and ambulance departments. With grants up to $4,000, this initiative ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect and serve their communities effectively. Eligibility is limited to rural departments in the 144-county territory, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.

The IMA Foundation Grant focuses on empowering communities by supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to workforce development, financial security for families, and enhancing emergency preparedness. With a mission to provide philanthropic assistance, the foundation seeks partners that align with its vision and operational reach. Organizations must be 501c3 nonprofits and serve areas where IMA has offices, ensuring that their initiatives directly impact youth under 26 years of age.

The Chicago Community Trust

As our region’s community foundation, The Chicago Community Trust is a platform for change that connects philanthropy to impact. We bring together generous donors, committed organizations, and caring residents to effect lasting change that moves our entire region forward.

Sponsorships

The Trust dedicates a portion of its discretionary grantmaking budget to sponsor programming events that strengthen economic mobility, increase opportunity and well-being, and address critical needs in Chicago.

Background

For many organizations, public events are essential to raising funds, implementing programs, and building communities. The Chicago Community Trust dedicates a portion of its discretionary grantmaking budget to sponsor programming events that strengthen economic mobility, increase opportunity and well-being, and address critical needs in Chicago. Sponsorship applications are reviewed twice a year, in alignment with summer and fall event seasons. To be considered for funding, an event must be produced by an eligible organization that is located in or primarily serving Cook County. 

Need/Opportunity Statement

Sponsorships are available for programming events such as meetings, forums, conferences, community and cultural events, and other gatherings. We will also consider sponsorship requests for fundraising events such as galas, luncheons, and walk-a-thons. Event objectives should align with the Trust’s priorities to strengthen economic mobility, increase opportunity and well-being, and address critical needs in Chicago communities.

Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their event aligns with the Trust commitment to convene people, partners and organizations, address the needs of our community, and support initiatives for long-term change. Organizations should showcase how the event uplifts community-driven solutions, amplifies resident voices, supports inclusive development, or promotes innovative approaches to homeownership or income growth.

Sponsorships are limited to one award per organization in any 12-month period. 

The Joyce Foundation's Culture Program aims to enhance racial equity and economic mobility in the Great Lakes region by supporting underrepresented artists and organizations. Focused on Chicago, it provides multi-year general operating grants and project grants to foster creativity and cultural vibrancy. The Foundation prioritizes historically underfunded artists and encourages innovative approaches to artistic growth, ensuring diverse artistic expressions contribute to thriving communities. Note: Limited new grants are awarded annually.

The Domanada Foundation Grant supports organizations focused on Jesus Christ's mission, prioritizing theological education, leadership development, and justice issues. Established in 1989, the Foundation emphasizes transparency in the grant-making process, fostering direct relationships with applicants. Grants are primarily for new or moderate-sized organizations in the Chicago area and Central/Eastern Europe, aiming to assist with funding base expansion. The Foundation generally avoids multi-year proposals and personal support funding.

Pillars of Giving

Nicor Gas focuses its charitable giving on five pillars. Grants are most likely to be awarded to organizations that fall into one of the five focus areas noted below and whose programs benefit those within Nicor Gas’ service area.

Family and Social Services

Strong communities depend on good citizens working together. We invest in nonprofit organizations with programs that support families, improve quality of life, foster resilience and enhance social welfare.

The Family and Social Services pillar provides support to social services programs. We focus on communities where stabilization needs are the greatest. Organizations funded under this pillar include social services agencies, non-core health services such as mental health, substance abuse, disability services, and organizations that target civic development. Nicor Gas supports a broad range of programs that promote community and social services, including but not limited to:

• Mental health and substance abuse prevention and treatment programs
• Domestic violence prevention and treatment programs
• Disability services programs
• Family support services programs
• Rehabilitation programs

The Land, Health, Community Grant Program: Chicagoland, administered by The Lumpkin Family Foundation, focuses on fostering healthy communities through funding for innovative, collaborative projects. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for organizations that aim to address systemic inequalities and promote health and wellness. This program seeks initiatives that enhance access to nutritious food, support mental health, and engage communities in sustainable practices, ultimately striving to create vibrant, equitable neighborhoods in the Chicagoland area.

Dot Foods’ Charitable Grant Program offers small grants of $500 or less to support local nonprofits, schools, and government entities. This initiative aims to enhance community development, education, health, diversity, and safety. Dedicated employees at Dot Foods volunteer their time to manage fundraising efforts and grant approvals, ensuring that contributions effectively impact their local areas. Organizations must align their requests with these focus areas and be located near a Dot Foods facility to be eligible.

The Nicor Gas: Critical Needs Fund, managed by Northern Illinois Community Initiatives, provides essential grants to nonprofit organizations for emergency situations impacting service delivery. Focused on racial equity, the fund aims to support organizations across the Nicor service area, enabling them to address critical needs swiftly, ideally within 30 days. Applicants must demonstrate their 501(c)(3) status and submit detailed project plans, budgets, and impact reports to ensure compliance and responsible fund usage.

The PositiveNRG Grant Program, led by NRG Energy, focuses on investing in communities through choice and education, community engagement, resilience, sustainability, and well-being. The program is open to non-profit organizations and governmental entities that can demonstrate a meaningful impact. Preference is given to initiatives that foster community involvement and inclusiveness. However, sponsorships for religious or political activities are generally not supported. This program aims to empower communities through innovative energy solutions.