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Best Cook County Grants for Nonprofits in Illinois
Discover active funding opportunities in Cook County Grants for Nonprofits. 34,000+ grants are available for a wide range of missions and programs with additional grants in DuPage, Lake, and Will counties
300+
Available grants
$66M
Total funding
$10K
Median grant
300+
grants
$66M
total
$10K
median
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Last updated: June 8, 2026. Next update: July 5, 2026.
AI summary from publicly available grant information
Up to US $300,000
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Grants
Rolling deadline
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation
Up to US $100,000
Global Impact Cash Grants
Rolling deadline
The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.
Cisco Systems Foundation
Up to US $20,000
Community Health Funding from Pahcs Ii Dba Northwestern Medicine
Rolling deadline
Cook County, Illinois nonprofits can access funding through Pahcs Ii Dba Northwestern Medicine for projects advancing community health priorities, including mental health, health care access, and health education. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and public agencies may apply for one-time support to address needs identified in local hospital assessments.
Pahcs Ii Dba Northwestern Medicine
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Unspecified amount
The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program
Rolling deadline
The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.
Bank Of America Charitable Foundation Inc
Unspecified amount
Cook County Arts Funding via Gaylord Donnelley Foundation
Pre proposal due Jun 19, 2026
Cook County, Illinois arts nonprofits can access funding through Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, which offers general operating support to small, professional arts organizations. Grants range from $2,500 to $13,500 and include technical assistance and multi-year support. Eligible groups must produce primarily in Cook County and have annual expenses under $1 million.
Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation
Up to US $10,000
Humanities Funding from Illinois Humanities Council
Applications due Aug 15, 2026
Illinois Humanities Council Incorporated provides Cook County, Illinois nonprofits with general operating support for organizations rooted in the humanities. Eligible groups include museums, libraries, and cultural organizations with a mission centered on public humanities. Grants up to $10,000 may benefit Cook County nonprofits focused on civic engagement and community enrichment.
Illinois Humanities Council Incorporated
Approximately US $10,000
Venable Foundation Grants for Cook County Nonprofits
Applications due Sep 2, 2026
Venable Foundation Inc supports nonprofit initiatives in Cook County, Illinois by funding programs in human services, legal aid, education, workforce development, health, environment, and arts and culture. Local 501(c)(3) organizations serving economically disadvantaged populations may be eligible for general operating or project support, with grants typically averaging $10,000.
Venable Foundation Inc
US $5,000 - US $15,000
Cook County Youth Social Change Funding via Crossroads Fund
Applications due Sep 16, 2026
Grants from Crossroads Fund help Cook County, Illinois youth organizations advance social justice, juvenile justice, and media freedom. Nonprofits led by or serving youth under 26 working on advocacy or activism projects—such as education, health, environment, or anti-discrimination—may be eligible for support, provided they meet budget and location requirements.
Crossroads Fund
Unspecified amount
Palumbo Family Foundation Grants for Cook County Youth
Applications due Sep 30, 2026
Focused on education and wellness, Palumbo Family Foundation invites Cook County, Illinois nonprofits supporting children’s health, youth services, and academic scholarships to apply. Organizations serving medically or intellectually challenged children or offering educational access may be eligible for funding to help local youth thrive and pursue higher education opportunities.
Palumbo Family Foundation
US $50,000 - US $100,000
Elea Institute Health Education Grants in Cook County
Applications due Oct 28, 2026
With a mission to improve serious illness care, Elea Institute provides Cook County nonprofits with funding for hospice, palliative care, and community health education initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for grants supporting charity care, integrative therapies, or education for providers, patients, and families. Awards range from $50,000 to $100,000 for up to two years.
Elea Institute
US $50,000 - US $100,000
Hospice Care Funding from Elea Institute
Applications due Oct 28, 2026
Elea Institute supports hospice and palliative care in Cook County, Illinois by funding nonprofit organizations providing charity care, integrative therapy, and related education. Grants of $50,000–$100,000 are available for up to two years. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving seriously ill patients and families in Cook County may apply.
Elea Institute
US $100,000 - US $300,000
Elea Institute Grants for Cook County Hospice Care
Applications due Oct 28, 2026
With a mission to expand access to compassionate end-of-life care, Elea Institute provides Cook County, Illinois nonprofits with funding for hospice, palliative care, and integrative therapy. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving uninsured or low-income patients may receive support for up to two years to deliver quality, dignified care in the community.
Elea Institute
US $5,000 - US $10,000
Lawrence Foundation Grant
Applications due Nov 1, 2026
The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.
Lawrence Foundation
US $20,000
Project Lead The Way Grants for Cook County STEM Education
Applications due Nov 7, 2026
Focused on STEM and K-12 education, Project Lead The Way Inc invites Cook County, Illinois schools to apply for support to launch or expand PLTW Engineering programs. Eligible public, charter, or private nonprofit schools serving at least 40% free and reduced-price lunch students may benefit from funding for participation fees, equipment, and teacher training.
Project Lead The Way Inc
US $10,000
Project Lead The Way Support for Cook County STEM Education
Applications due Nov 7, 2026
Cook County, Illinois schools focused on STEM and K-12 education can access funding through Project Lead The Way Inc. This grant supports the expansion of PLTW Engineering programs, including adding courses or training teachers. Eligible public, charter, and nonprofit private schools serving high-need students may benefit from this opportunity.
Project Lead The Way Inc
US $10,000
Cook County STEM Education Funding via Project Lead The Way
Applications due Nov 7, 2026
Project Lead The Way Inc provides Cook County, Illinois K-12 schools with grants to launch or expand STEM education through the PLTW Gateway program. Eligible public, charter, and private nonprofit schools serving 40% or more free and reduced-price lunch students may apply for support to implement hands-on, real-world STEM learning experiences.
Project Lead The Way Inc
US $10,000
Cook County STEM Funding via Project Lead The Way
Applications due Nov 7, 2026
Project Lead The Way Inc provides Cook County, Illinois K-12 schools with funding to expand PLTW Gateway STEM programs. Eligible public, charter, and nonprofit private schools serving at least 40% free and reduced-price lunch students may apply for support to add units, train teachers, or enhance STEM enrichment opportunities.
Project Lead The Way Inc
US $10,000
Project Lead The Way Inc Grants for Cook County STEM Education
Applications due Nov 7, 2026
Grants from Project Lead The Way Inc help Cook County, Illinois schools expand STEM and K-12 enrichment opportunities. Eligible public, charter, and private nonprofit schools serving at least 40% free and reduced-price lunch students may apply for support to launch or grow PLTW programs. Nonprofit organizations focused on education may benefit from this opportunity.
Project Lead The Way Inc
US $5,000
Cook County STEM Education Funding via Project Lead The Way
Applications due Nov 7, 2026
Focused on STEM and K-12 academic enrichment, Project Lead The Way Inc invites Cook County, Illinois schools to expand access to hands-on STEM learning. Eligible public, charter, and nonprofit private schools serving at least 40% free and reduced-price lunch students may apply for support to launch or grow PLTW programs and teacher training.
Project Lead The Way Inc
Up to US $200,000
Security Funding from Illinois Emergency Management Agency
Applications due Dec 18, 2026
With a mission to enhance safety and preparedness, Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security provides Cook County, Illinois nonprofits with funding for physical and cybersecurity improvements. Nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist or extremist attacks may be eligible for support to strengthen their security infrastructure and resilience.
Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security
US $5,000 - US $25,000
Dr. Scholl Foundation Grants
Letter of inquiry due Jan 31, 2027
The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.
Dr Scholl Foundation
Unspecified amount
David Collins Jeck Memorial Scholarship
Applications due Feb 5, 2027
The David Collins Jeck Memorial Scholarship supports Fauquier County residents attending local public high schools who aspire to careers in culinary arts. Applicants should demonstrate passion for cooking and culinary studies, embodying the values of respect and kindness exemplified by David Collins Jeck. Priority is given to those showing financial need and academic merit, ensuring that this scholarship not only honors his legacy but also fosters future culinary talents in the community.
Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
US $18,000 - US $227,479
Illinois Department of Human Services Mental Health Grants in Cook County
Applications due Apr 3, 2027
With a mission to support mental health and justice services, Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Mental Health provides Cook County, Illinois nonprofits with funding for outpatient mental health restoration programs. Eligible organizations can operate community-based services for adults and juveniles found unfit to stand trial, addressing mental illness, substance use, and legal education needs.
Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Mental Health
Unspecified amount
Legal Services Funding from Illinois Equal Justice Foundation
Applications due Apr 20, 2027
Illinois Equal Justice Foundation provides Cook County, Illinois nonprofits with grants to deliver free legal aid and mediation services for residents facing eviction or housing instability. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations offering legal assistance or dispute resolution to low-income individuals in the area may benefit from this funding opportunity, supporting housing stability and access to justice.
Illinois Equal Justice Foundation
US $15,000 - US $75,000
The Chicago Community Trust Support for Cook County Racial Justice
Applications due Apr 30, 2027
The Chicago Community Trust supports racial and ethnic justice initiatives in Cook County, Illinois by funding Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits focused on community wealth building, mobilization, and care. Grants range from $15,000 to $75,000 for organizations improving quality of life for Black residents. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations may apply for general or project-based support.
The Chicago Community Trust
US $10,000
The Chicago Community Trust Grants for Cook County Minority Services
Applications due May 11, 2027
The Chicago Community Trust provides Cook County, Illinois nonprofits with support for programs serving Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities. Funding is available for 501(c)(3) organizations advancing minority services, cultural heritage, or racial and ethnic justice in the region. Priority is given to groups addressing unmet needs or serving historically marginalized API populations.
The Chicago Community Trust
Up to US $10,000
The Chicago Community Trust: Sponsorships
Applications due May 15, 2027
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 Chicago Community Trust
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Sign up to see the full listCook County Grants for Nonprofits Highlights
Last updated: June 8, 2026. Next update: July 5, 2026.
Top Searched Cook County Grants for Nonprofits
Grant Insights : Cook County Grants for Nonprofits
Grant Availability
How common are grants in this category?
Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.
300+ Cook County grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.
68 Cook County grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size
41 Cook County grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size
69 Cook County grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses
200+ Cook County grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects
900+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on STEM / STEAM Education
800+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Academic Success & Enrichment
Grant Deadline Distribution
Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Cook County grants for Nonprofits?
Most grants are due in the fourth quarter.
Q1
24.5%
Q2
22.0%
Q3
21.9%
Q4
31.6%
Average Grant Size
What's the typical amount funded for Illinois?
Grants are most commonly $88,640.
$88,640
Total Number of Grants
What's the total number of grants in Cook County Grants for Nonprofits year over year?
In 2024, funders in Illinois awarded a total of 52,092 grants.
2022 97,582
2023 97,805
2024 52,092
Top Grant Focus Areas
Among all the Cook County Grants for Nonprofits given out in Illinois, the most popular focus areas that receive funding are Education, Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations, and Human Services.
1. Education
2. Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations
3. Human Services
Funding Over Time
How is funding for Cook County Grants for Nonprofits changing over time?
Funding has increased by -50.58%.
2022 $8,503,243,276
2023
$9,316,300,812
9.56%
2024
$4,603,961,736
-50.58%
Illinois Counties That Receive the Most Funding
How does grant funding vary by county?
Cook County, Lake County, and Dupage County receive the most funding.
| County | Total Grant Funding in 2024 |
|---|---|
| Cook County | $2,966,362,516 |
| Lake County | $303,951,040 |
| Dupage County | $167,485,104 |
| Peoria County | $117,708,294 |
| Sangamon County | $117,672,386 |
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