Best Grants for Charities in Illinois

The Disability Foundation, in partnership with The Dayton Foundation, invites proposals for grants aimed at supporting organizations providing direct services to individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants include community-based nonprofits and academic institutions. Grants, capped at $10,000, can be used for various purposes such as enhancing service accessibility, purchasing necessary equipment, and expanding services. This initiative seeks to empower disabled individuals by ensuring they receive essential resources and support.

The Mark Foundation Emerging Leader Award supports innovative cancer research led by early career investigators. Aimed at high-impact, high-risk projects, this grant is available to those employed by U.S. or Canadian non-profit academic institutions. Eligible applicants must be within three to eight years of starting their independent faculty research appointment. This award emphasizes multi-year independent funding and is not intended as the main funding source for the laboratory, ensuring that diverse research efforts are encouraged.

The Youth Programming Grant, offered by the Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF), aims to support Native American farmers and ranchers through various projects. This grant focuses on providing essential business assistance, agricultural education, and advocacy services. By funding diverse initiatives, the NAAF seeks to promote the ongoing involvement of Native communities in agriculture, ensuring their sustainable growth and development within the sector.

The RIPS Regions IPS Trainers program, initiated by the Illinois Department of Human Services, aims to support agencies in implementing Individual Placement and Support (IPS) programs across the state. Through the recruitment of full-time IPS Trainers, the program ensures comprehensive training and technical assistance, enhancing the sustainability of IPS initiatives. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of equity and diversity in service provision, striving to create an inclusive environment that benefits all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds.

Kiwanis Club of North Modesto

We are a service club of men and women whose primary goal is to help children and young people around the world, starting in Modesto, CA.

Scholarships

The members of the Kiwanis Club of North Modesto (founded in 1966) and the Kiwanis Club of Modesto (founded in 1923) are joining forces to award $2,000 scholarships to as many as 32 students for the 2026-27 academic year. Each year, members of these two clubs perform countless hours of community service through fundraisers, then donate these funds back to nonprofits and young people in our community. It is the hope of the two clubs that scholarship recipients in their adult life will give back to their communities as members of a community service club.

Goals

• To encourage public or private high school graduates (within the boundaries of the Modesto High School District) to pursue education goals, preferably at a California community college, four-year college or university or at a technical/vocational school.

• To recognize academic achievement and to invest in the future of young scholars. 
• To recognize young scholars who have demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism and community service

The Republic Services Community Grant Program supports local nonprofit organizations focused on neighborhood revitalization, safety, disaster relief, and social services. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply once annually through an online application process. The program emphasizes a non-discrimination policy, ensuring services are provided without bias. However, funding is not available for individuals, government entities, schools, or religious organizations. This initiative reflects Republic Services' commitment to community engagement and support.

The NIH Director's Early Independence Award empowers exceptional early-career researchers to embark on independent research careers immediately after their doctoral degree or post-graduate clinical training. This initiative accelerates the transition to independence, promoting innovative research across various fields aligned with the NIH mission. As part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, it encourages groundbreaking studies that could significantly advance health-related knowledge.

Maryetta’s Mission Scholarship

Established by Maryetta's Mission at the First Church of God of Eldred, PA, this scholarship is awarded to students who are entering or currently in a post-secondary program for Christian-based ministerial studies including majors or fields of study such as theology, music liturgy, youth development, Christian administration, etc.

The Midwest Modern Language Association (MMLA) Fellowship, offered by The Newberry Library, supports scholars engaged in literary and cultural criticism. This fellowship provides a stipend of $3,000/month for a one-month research period, allowing recipients to investigate essential collection items. Open to faculty members, postdoctoral scholars, and ABD PhD candidates from any nationality, it promotes scholarly inquiry while welcoming international scholars under the J-1 visa. This opportunity enriches the academic community and broadens access to diverse research.

The NIH HEAL Initiative PainCare Clinician Training Program (PCTP) offers Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Awards (K08) aimed at nurturing a new generation of independent investigators. This program provides essential NIH research funding during the early-career phase, enabling awardees to establish their independent research programs focused on pain management. Key application deadlines span from October 2024 to June 2027, ensuring ample opportunities for interested candidates to apply.

The Alfred Bersted Foundation Grants aim to support quality educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations in DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, and McHenry counties, Illinois. Established in 1972, the foundation typically offers one-year grants and prioritizes organizations with a physical presence in these areas. Notably, grants are not awarded to degree-conferring institutions or for endowment campaigns, ensuring resources are focused on immediate community needs.

The Jan and Frank Cicero Fellowship supports artists in the visual and performing arts for one month, providing a stipend of $3,000. Applications are due by January 3, 2025, with a grace period for recommendation letters until January 13, 2025. This fellowship is an opportunity to enhance artistic practice using the Newberry collection, open to scholars at the ABD stage and beyond. Eligible applicants include artists and performers from various disciplines.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

Bee a Rae of Sunshine Foundation – MaKenzi Rae Cash Memorial Military Service & Leadership Scholarship

To honor and support future military leaders who embody courage, respect, and kindness, carrying forward MaKenzi Rae Cash’s legacy of standing up for others, promoting a culture of kindness, and taking action against bullying in every community.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Legacy Septic and Excavation Scholarships

The purpose of the Legacy Septic and Excavation Scholarships is to provide scholarships for current students of Winter’s Mill High School, Manchester Valley High School, Westminster High School and Carroll County Career and Technology Center who have an interest in the environment and who meet the eligibility requirements set up for this scholarship.

The AGA Pilot Research Award offers $40,000 for one year to independent investigators at any career stage, focusing on innovative research in gastroenterology or hepatology. Applicants must hold an MD, PhD, or equivalent degree, and AGA membership is required at the time of application. This award encourages early career researchers and supports projects with new directions, emphasizing mentorship for those in the early stages of their careers.

The AGA Fellow Abstract Award, offered by the American Gastroenterological Association, provides a $500 travel award to MD, PhD, or equivalent fellows who present their abstracts at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW). The award encourages the participation of active trainee members and emphasizes diversity by inviting applications from underrepresented groups in biomedical research. The top abstract will earn an additional $1,000 award, highlighting excellence in gastroenterology research.

The First International Nutritionist/Dietitian (FIND) Fellowship supports foreign nationals pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA, with a clear plan to return to their home country. Offered by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation, this fellowship is part of a broader awards program that recognizes achievements and provides stipends to dietetic professionals and students. Applications are accepted annually, with award numbers varying based on funding and investment activities.

The Petco Foundation offers disaster relief support for animal welfare organizations affected by disasters. Eligible applicants include authorized members of IRS-designated 501c3 nonprofits, government agency representatives with operational insight, and invited for-profit entities focused on animal welfare. However, the foundation does not fund individuals, organizations outside the U.S., or those whose primary mission does not relate to animal welfare. This initiative aims to provide critical assistance during times of crisis.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

The Shelley Pillman Memorial Scholarship

The Shelley Pillman Memorial Scholarship supports students pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, honoring the legacy of Shelley, a beloved rescue dog whose gentle spirit and unwavering compassion touched the lives of all who knew her. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of compassionate veterinarians who will continue to care for animals with the same kindness and dedication that Shelley embodied.

The Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants, administered by the New York Foundation for the Arts, provide one-time funding up to $5,000 for artists facing unexpected medical emergencies. This program aims to alleviate financial burdens caused by medical costs, ensuring that artists can receive necessary care without delay. Eligible applicants must be practicing artists in visual arts, film, or choreography, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative supports artists of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those outside major coastal cities.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 37 Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide scholarships for continuing education, undergraduate or graduate study to current and retired members of IUOE, Local 37, their spouses, dependent children (as defined by IRS regulation) and grandchildren. If the applicant is a Union Member he or she must have at least one year of continuous Union Membership. If the applicant is a spouse, dependent child or grandchild, the Union Member must fulfill the eligibility requirements.

Wichita County Jr. Livestock Association Stock Show Scholarship

The Wichita County Junior Livestock Association Stock Show (WCJLS) Scholarship was created at WFACF in 2013 to support higher education endeavors of graduating high school seniors who participated in the respective FFA programs of Wichita Falls ISD, Iowa Park CISD, Electra ISD, Burkburnett ISD, City View ISD, or the Wichita County 4-H program. There is (1) one-time $2,000 scholarship available for a recipient from each of the 6 programs; students who are in the FFA and 4-H programs must decide which one they want to apply under at the time of application. The award can be used at any college or vocational/trade program in the U.S. for any field of study. To be eligible, students must have a 2.5 GPA and have exhibited a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) for two consecutive years at the WCJLS. The top two candidates from each program will be interviewed by the scholarship committee and the award will be based 50/50 on application/interview. 

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Meghan Lynn Rippeon Memorial Scholarship

The purpose of the Meghan Lynn Rippeon Memorial Scholarship is to honor the life of Meghan Lynn Rippeon by providing a scholarship for any senior graduating from a Carroll County, Maryland high school who has shown academic achievement and is pursuing an education in early childhood development and who has been accepted at an accredited College, University, or Technical School. Applications will also be accepted from continuing students, i.e. those that are already in college, who meet the criteria established for this scholarship.

The NIDCD Cooperative Agreement for Clinical Trials in Communication Disorders (U01) invites applications to support clinical trials that require FDA oversight, aim to establish efficacy, or pose significant risks. This initiative, managed by the NIH, seeks to enhance interventions for communication disorders and encourages collaboration between NIDCD Project Scientists and investigators. Proposals are due by 5 PM local time, with Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior to the deadline.

The Dr. Ernest J. Ring Academic Development Grant, offered by the Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation, supports early-career interventional radiology faculty (within 7 years of appointment) in conducting research. The grant provides up to $150,000 ($75,000 annually for two years) to facilitate the development of innovative therapies that enhance patient care. Eligible applicants must hold an MD, DO, PhD, or equivalent and be members of the Society of Interventional Radiology.

Big 30 Athletic Fund

This scholarship is for four graduating high school seniors from Big 30 participant schools. One award overall from any Big 30 school, one for a student from Cattaraugus County, one for a student from Allegany County, and one for a student from Pennsylvania. Students must have participated in at least two sports for all four years of high school. Emphasis will be placed on involvement in sports, but academic achievement will also be considered. Financial need may be considered.

The Combined Pilot Research Grants by the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) and the American Association of Plastic Surgeons (AAPS) aim to support innovative pilot studies in hand surgery and plastic surgery. Grants of up to $10,000 are provided for projects that enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices. Eligibility requires applicants to be MDs, DOs, or PhDs in U.S. or Canadian institutions, and membership in AAPS is encouraged to facilitate collaboration and mentorship.