Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Illinois

The Illinois Cooperative Work Study Program offers paid internships to students, helping them reduce reliance on loans while connecting academic programs to employment. This initiative focuses on students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields and enhances job training funding, which can lead to business expansions in Illinois and increased full-time job opportunities for graduates.

The Foster Grandparent Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Aging, empowers seniors aged 55 and older to tutor and mentor children with special needs in various educational settings. By providing a small stipend and training, the program encourages volunteerism, enhancing the lives of both seniors and youth. In 2024, 417 volunteers dedicated over 423,000 hours to support 3,670 children, showcasing the program's impact on community engagement and intergenerational relationships.

The Financial Health and Asset Building Grant, provided by the St. Louis Community Foundation, aims to support organizations that deliver financial education and access to financial products for low-to-moderate income individuals, including ALICE households. This initiative focuses on enhancing economic mobility by equipping adults with essential financial skills and resources. By aligning with the foundation's Theory of Change, the grant seeks to create sustainable pathways for wealth building and financial independence.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.

The HAIF Housing Assistance for Individuals and Families program, operated by Leyden Family Services, aims to expand crisis support services in response to increased housing instability exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative will provide essential short-term assistance with rent, mortgages, and utilities to prevent homelessness. Additional services include mental health counseling and job training, with a focus on equity and inclusivity. Approximately $66,500 in funding will be allocated to enhance client support and community partnerships.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Rehabilitation Psychology at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a one-year, full-time program with a potential extension to two years. This fellowship provides extensive clinical training in rehabilitation and neuropsychology, focusing on individuals with complex medical conditions. Trainees will engage in individual and group therapy, neuropsychological evaluations, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing them for successful careers in rehabilitation psychology. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and offers supervision and didactic opportunities.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.

Manufacturing Training Academies

Program Description

The Manufacturing Training Academies Grant Program will provide capital grants to establish advanced workforce training facilities at downstate Illinois community colleges (defined as community college districts located outside Cook and the collar counties). The workforce training to be subsequently provided will foster development in manufacturing operations aligned with priority industries identified in the Illinois Economic Growth Plan. Priority industries relevant to this opportunity include:

• Life Sciences;
• Quantum Computing, AI, and Microelectronics;
• Clean Energy Production and Manufacturing;
• Advanced Manufacturing; and
• Next Generation Agriculture, Ag Tech and Food Processing.

These capital grants may fund the construction of facilities and purchases of durable equipment needed to establish manufacturing training academies. Specialized manufacturing training academies will foster development of priority industries, greater opportunities in high-wage careers, increased specialization, and increased industry support and collaboration in manufacturing workforce training. 

The Windgate Charitable Trust Grant supports contemporary craft and visual arts in the U.S. It offers funding for fellowships, residencies, educational outreach, and materials for craft programs. The foundation prioritizes strengthening visual arts in colleges and expanding K-12 art-integrated programs, providing opportunities for artists and educators to enhance their skills and foster creativity among students. Organizations with previous funding from Windgate can apply through the grantee portal.

The Mental Health Juvenile Justice (MHJJ) Program connects the Illinois Juvenile Court System, schools, and communities to support youth at risk of mental health issues. The MHJJ Liaison facilitates referrals and provides training to stakeholders, ensuring youth receive necessary services. Additionally, the program addresses systemic inequities, promoting diversity and inclusivity within the service provision process. The Illinois Department of Human Services emphasizes collaboration and community-based support to enhance the well-being of at-risk youth.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

The Home Delivered Meals (Non-Formula and Formula) State Funding provides essential meal delivery services for homebound older adults in Illinois. This program, funded by the state as a matching share of federal funds, not only ensures that nutritious meals reach those in need but also allows volunteers to check on the welfare of the elderly. Eligible applicants include Area Agencies on Aging, government organizations, and nonprofit organizations.

The NCR-SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports agricultural educators through competitive grants aimed at enhancing training in sustainable agriculture. This initiative promotes cross-agency collaboration, utilizing farmers as educators to address pressing issues within the farming community. Projects funded are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes, fostering knowledge and behavioral changes that lead to sustainable practices in agriculture and food systems. The program encourages diverse participation, ensuring a comprehensive approach to professional development.

The Job Training Economic Development Program (IL) aims to support under-employed, unemployed, and underrepresented individuals by providing career pathways and essential services for workforce re-entry. Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, this program seeks to alleviate economic challenges through flexible funding for barrier reduction services, potentially assisting around 1,000 individuals in various Economic Development Regions. The initiative emphasizes accountability in fund usage to prevent fraud or misuse.

The Prostate Cancer Outreach and Screening initiative by the Illinois Department of Public Health aims to enhance awareness and screening for prostate cancer among high-risk populations, particularly Black non-Hispanic and Hispanic males. This program leverages data-driven strategies to address areas with high incidence and mortality rates. Funding supports one nonprofit organization to implement outreach efforts statewide, aligning with the 2022-2027 Illinois Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan and USPSTF guidelines.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is launching a Reproductive Healthcare Navigation Program to create a toll-free abortion navigation hotline. This initiative aims to connect patients with appropriate abortion providers in Illinois while offering educational resources and logistical support. The program seeks experienced grantees to maintain relationships with providers, ensure culturally competent services, and promote the hotline effectively through various channels. The goal is to facilitate access to safe abortion care and support for individuals navigating this process.

The JIFS Juvenile Inpatient Forensic Services, managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services, offers crucial inpatient treatment for juveniles ordered by the courts due to mental health issues. The program focuses on a comprehensive approach, including psychiatric assessments, medication management, and individualized therapy. Furthermore, it aims to address systemic inequities by promoting diversity and inclusivity in its service delivery, ensuring all individuals receive equitable support regardless of their background.

The CSA Midwest Region: Otto Thieme Memorial Internship provides a unique opportunity for students to engage in a hands-on curatorial experience with costume collections at Midwestern museums, historical societies, or universities. Awarded a $2000 stipend for an eight-week internship, students will gain valuable mentorship and training in the field of costume. This program honors Otto Charles Thieme, an influential figure in costume scholarship, enhancing students' academic pursuits while fostering appreciation for historic costumes.

Illinois Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network

FY27 Illinois Adult Education and Literacy Professional Development Network(Competitive) ICCB will provide $300,000 in grant funding opportunities to be administered to support the Professional Development Network and the Adult Education Hotline.

The grant objectives are as follows:

• Support for Workforce-Aligned English Language Acquisition Instruction, including Evidence-Based Reading Instruction, Assessment, and Instructionally Embedded Technology Integration, delivered through In Person, On Site, and Virtual Support.
• Promote and maintain the Illinois Adult Education Hotline.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The TANF Employment & Training Program - Support Services Program aims to provide essential transportation services for low-income individuals in Illinois, facilitating their access to jobs at large employers. The program prioritizes equity and inclusivity, focusing on areas with limited transportation options and addressing systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities. By supporting Community Based Organizations, the initiative seeks to enhance economic stability for TANF recipients, ensuring that they can maintain employment and improve their livelihoods.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

The Youth Homelessness System Improvement Illinois Prevention Pilot aims to amplify the voices of youth and young adults (ages 18-24) in state governance while addressing youth homelessness. This initiative focuses on enhancing discharge planning, establishing partnerships with community organizations, improving assessment systems, and ensuring equitable responses to youth homelessness. By prioritizing youth leadership and collaboration, the program seeks to create sustainable solutions for at-risk youth, particularly those facing unique challenges such as being pregnant, parenting, or identifying as LGBTQIA.

The Legal Assistance for Nonprofits program by the Chicago Lawyers Committee provides essential legal services to nonprofits and small businesses aiming to reduce systemic inequalities in wealth and access to economic opportunities. This initiative offers support specifically to organizations that advance race equity and serve underserved communities, ultimately helping to close the racial wealth gap through education, legal support, and advocacy for economic development.

The CoVantage Cares Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois that address basic needs and enhance community quality of life. With over $4.2M in funding since its inception in 2015, the foundation prioritizes projects with lasting impact, collaboration, and alignment with its mission. It aims to assist those facing financial challenges while promoting financial literacy and community enhancement initiatives.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.