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Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

Find the perfect Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois on Instrumentl. 10,000+ Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois in the United States.

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$2.95B

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$5K

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10,000+ grants
$2.95B total
$5K median

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Allen-Sprinkle Memorial Gift

National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia (NFBWV)
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000

National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

The National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia (NFBWV), an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, is an organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people, and has the power, influence, diversity and determination to help transform our dreams into reality. Members work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising expectations so that blind persons can live the life they want.

The National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia is a 501c(3) nonprofit volunteer membership organization comprised of blind and interested sighted persons of all ages, their families and friends. Our committed local chapters, divisions, committees, programs, and well-trained leaders help newly blind people adjust to vision loss, and promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities. We bring our collective experiences together to effect change at the state and national level.

Allen-Sprinkle Memorial Gift

Each year the National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia (NFBWV) awards a scholarship to a worthy blind individual who is pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time program of post-secondary study or training and is a resident of West Virginia. This award is known as the Allen-Sprinkle Memorial Gift. Both Sid Allen and Jack Sprinkle were long time leaders in the organized blind movement in West Virginia. The gift is One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), and the scholarship will be given at the annual banquet of the NFBWV State Convention.

Education - Higher Education Vision Impairment Care & Services Vocational & Trade Education

Mathy Mezey Scholarship

Nurses Educational Funds Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Mathy Mezey Scholarship

In 2013, the John A. Hartford Foundation, Inc. created a permanent NEF Scholarship for $50,000 in honor of Mathy Mezey, EdD, RN, FAAN, a noted international geriatric expert. Funds from this scholarship will be used to award nurses engaged in graduate geriatric nursing programs.

Education - Higher Education Nursing Aging / Gerontology

Anne Pressly Scholarship

Arkansas Community Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.”  

Anne Pressly Scholarship

To memorialize the legacy of Anne Pressly and support women who plan to pursue a career in Journalism.

Education - Higher Education Journalism News Media & Communications

Lakeview Foundation Scholarship

Lakeview Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Lakeview Foundation Scholarship

The Lakeview Foundation provides higher education scholarships to college bound students of Eastern Van Buren County, Michigan who are pursuing a healthcare degree.

Lakeview Foundation started in 1985 as a Hospital Authority Foundation. Its existence is solely due to the hospital that was started in Paw Paw in 1939 in a house that was the summer home of David Rose, a former mayor of Milwaukee.

The hospital quickly became Lakeview Municipal Hospital and eventually Lakeview Community Hospital Authority comprising the Villages of Paw Paw, Lawton, Decatur and Mattawan, The City of Gobles, and the Townships of Paw Paw, Pine Grove, Decatur, Antwerp, Almena, Hamilton, Porter and Lawrence.

Shortly after the hospital authority sold the hospital to Bronson Methodist Hospital, Lakeview Foundation became independent and accepted a large donation as part of the sale. Lakeview Foundation enjoys a close bond with Lakeview Bronson Hospital.

Education - Higher Education Nursing Medical Education & Professional Training

Charmayne Gooch Arts Scholarship

Community Foundation of Northern Colorado
Private
United States
US $5,000

Charmayne Gooch Arts Scholarship

The Charmayne Gooch Arts Scholarship is available to Larimer County students who have the potential to succeed but may not have attained sufficient academic achievement to place them in a position to receive other scholarships. This can include students with a disability or special needs and/or a student who would benefit from a program with less emphasis on academics such as art, writing, music, or visual arts.

Scholarship amount:

  • $5,000

Number of awards:

  • 3

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

Education - Higher Education Art Education Physical Disabilities

Assay Validation of High Quality Markers for Clinical Studies in Cancer (UH2/UH3 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (360946)

National Institutes of Health
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites applications for the validation of biomarkers and assays for cancer detection and treatment. This funding opportunity allows for biphasic or monophasic applications to support both analytical and clinical validation phases. Successful projects will leverage human specimens to develop assays that enhance cancer treatment and prevention, ensuring multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists and clinicians. This initiative aims to improve cancer management through reliable and clinically validated tools.
Cancer / Oncology Biomedical Imaging

Roesler, Max and Elizabeth Memorial Scholarship Fund

Noble County Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,500
The Roesler, Max and Elizabeth Memorial Scholarship Fund supports non-traditional students aged 25 and older in Noble County, Indiana, pursuing higher education or retraining. This fund awards $1,500 to applicants enrolled in any accredited college, university, or trade school. Applicants may be full-time or part-time students and may reapply. The scholarship reflects the commitment of generous donors to invest in local students' educational goals.
Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation Academic Scholarship Programs

Tilghman, Linda Healthcare Scholarship

Noble County Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Linda Tilghman Healthcare Scholarship supports Noble County high school seniors enrolled in the Primary Healthcare Program at Impact Institute. Applicants must pursue a degree in healthcare and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50. This one-time $1,000 award can be used for tuition and academic fees. To apply, students must submit an essay on their healthcare outlook and provide a reference from a teacher or employer. Funds not used for educational purposes must be returned.
Career / College Preparation Medical Education & Professional Training Academic Scholarship Programs

Advancing Care for Patients with Advanced ALK+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

Pfizer, Inc.
Corporate
Australia, Europe +2 more
Up to US $100,000
Pfizer is launching a grant initiative to enhance care for patients with advanced ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This program aims to support independent medical education projects focusing on patient and caregiver preparation for ALK inhibitor therapy, side-effect management, and the development of resources that promote informed decision-making and accessibility. By addressing the challenges faced by this patient population, the initiative seeks to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Lung Cancer

Quality Improvement Solutions for the Diagnosis and Management of Migraine and Headache Disorders

Pfizer, Inc.
Corporate
Canada, United States
Up to US $250,000
Pfizer, in collaboration with the American Headache Society, invites innovative proposals for quality improvement initiatives targeting gaps in headache medicine. The focus is on enhancing patient outcomes through effective diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies, as well as education in medical training. This grant aims to develop widely usable tools and information that promote patient-centered care and equity for those affected by migraine and headache disorders.
Chronic / Acute Pain Neurological Diseases & Disorders

Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award

National Federation Of The Blind Inc
Private
United States
More than US $1,000

Scholarships and Awards

The National Federation of the Blind offers several scholarships and awards that honor blind individuals as well as teachers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations whose work benefits the blind community.

Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award

Honor a teacher who provides exemplary education, experiences, and opportunities for their blind students.

Every year, the Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award recognizes an outstanding teacher of blind students. The education of blind children is one of the National Federation of the Blind's highest priorities. Please help us recognize dedicated and innovative teachers who provide quality education and meaningful experiences and opportunities for their blind students.

The Award

The Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award is presented at the NFB National Convention. Honorees receive: 

  • An expense-paid trip to attend the convention
  • A check for $1,000
  • A commemorative plaque
  • A place on the agenda of the annual meeting of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children
  • The opportunity to attend seminars and workshops that address the current state of education of blind students, as well as a chance to meet and network with hundreds of blind individuals, teachers, parents, and other professionals in the field
Vision Impairment Care & Services Special Needs Education Teacher Development & Training

Universal Application for Adults

Community Foundation of Elkhart County
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Universal Application for Adults offers a simplified way for adult students in Elkhart County to apply for six different scholarships with one application. This initiative by the Community Foundation aims to support those pursuing further education, whether returning to school or changing careers. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma and plan to attend an accredited institution. This program streamlines the scholarship process, making it easier for dedicated learners to access funding opportunities.
Academic Scholarship Programs Adult Education Career / College Preparation

Grady Graves Scholarship Fund

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000
The Grady Graves Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, aims to uplift the community by providing scholarships of up to $20,000 for graduating seniors of Crowell High School in Texas. Focused on enhancing health, wealth, and education, this initiative fosters a culture of giving and equity. By partnering with local donors and organizations, the fund plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future for students and the broader community.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs

Jack Ford Shelby Scholarship Fund

Communities Foundation of Texas
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Jack Ford Shelby Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, supports graduating seniors from Littlefield High School in Texas with scholarships up to $5,000 for pursuing a baccalaureate degree at accredited colleges or universities. This initiative aims to enhance community health and equity by investing in the education of local students, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed academically and contribute positively to society.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs

Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Education Scholarship

North Georgia Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500

Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Education Scholarship

The Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Education Scholarship was established in 2010 by his family to honor his memory and support residents of his hometown, Forsyth County, Georgia, in pursuing their educational goals. The Honorable Richard S. Gault was a distinguished Georgian, a highly respected jurist, a dedicated community leader, and a lifelong advocate for education.

This scholarship is available to non-traditional students or graduating high school seniors who attend Forsyth Central High School, North Forsyth High School, or East Forsyth High School. Applicants must be a resident of Forsyth County, Georgia. Students must be planning to enroll in an accredited college, university, technical school, or secondary training program. In 2026, one scholarship award of $2,500 will be offered.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Vocational & Trade Education

Emerge Grant

Jeannette Rankin Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $12,500
The Emerge Grant, established by the Jeannette Rankin Foundation, supports women and nonbinary individuals aged 25 and older from Georgia and Montana. With grants up to $2,500 annually, recipients can pursue technical, vocational, or degree programs at accredited U.S. institutions. This initiative, rooted in Rankin's legacy, aims to empower those demonstrating financial need. Applicants will be informed about their status, ensuring transparency in the selection process.
Women & Girl Services Adult Education Vocational & Trade Education +1 more

Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant

Jeannette Rankin Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500
The Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant supports women and nonbinary students aged 35 and older, providing up to $2,500 annually for technical or vocational education, associate’s degrees, or first bachelor’s degrees. This grant, renewable for up to five years, aims to empower those facing financial need, fostering better futures for American women. Recipients are selected based on their applications, ensuring that all candidates are informed about their status.
Women & Girl Services Adult Education Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

CTTSS Graduate Students Research Award

Society of Toxicology
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The CTTSS Graduate Students Research Award, offered by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes outstanding research by current Ph.D. students in translational and clinical toxicology. Recipients are announced at the SOT Annual Meeting, with the first-place winner receiving a cash award and certificate. This award aims to encourage innovation and academic growth among graduate students in the field of toxicology, enhancing the impact of their research on human, animal, and environmental health.
Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology

David and Jinny Schultz Family Fund Scholarship

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

David and Jinny Schultz Family Fund

Grand Haven resident David Schultz did not go to college. In fact, he never graduated from High School. He started working for his father when he was fifteen and began his tool and die apprenticeship when he was only eighteen years old, becoming president of a tool and die firm when he was 27, turning the company into a successful productions shop. Schultz always had the desire to succeed, but not the formal education. From personal experience, he knew the world would be a better place if a young person's desire could be harnessed with education. This scholarship, established by David and his wife Jinny, is awarded to a student who demonstrates commitment and a strong motivation to succeed.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Educational Access & Equity

Dake Community Manufacturing Scholarship

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

Dake Community Manufacturing Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in 2007 for the 120th Anniversary Celebration of Dake Corporation, a former local manufacturing company. It was started by employees and management to encourage and support students that want to further their education in manufacturing education. The Dake entrepreneurial spirit lives on through this scholarship by empowering the next generation.

Manufacturing Engineering Education - Higher Education Adult Education +1 more

Barbara and Nicole Heacox Foreign Study & Travel Fund Scholarship

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
Private
Countries
Unspecified amount

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

Barbara and Nicole Heacox Foreign Study & Travel Fund

Bob Heacox lost his wife, Barbara, to cancer in 1990. A few months later he lost his daughter, Nicole, in a tragic accident. At the time of her death, Nicole was a Grand Haven High School student. To help fill the void left by a wife and mother, daughter and sister, Bob and his son, Paul, established a unique Memorial Fund at the Foundation in 1992. While the majority of the Foundation's Scholarship Funds help current graduating high school seniors, the Barbara and Nicole Heacox Foreign Travel and Study Fund assists deserving students, of all ages, who might not otherwise have the opportunity to travel and study in a foreign country.

Education - Higher Education Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Educational Access & Equity

Bonnie & Printis Shelton Scholarship

Community Foundation of Madison and Jefferson County
Private
United States
Up to US $7,000

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Bonnie & Printis Shelton Scholarship

Criteria evaluated:

  • Academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and financial need

Required materials:

  • FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

  • $7,000 | 1 scholarship, renewable at $3,500 in each freshman & sophomore years
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation

Meyers-Hoefling Scholarship

Community Foundation of Madison and Jefferson County
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Meyers-Hoefling Scholarship

Criteria evaluated:

  • Academic achievement and financial need

Required materials:

  • FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

  • TBD | 1 scholarship - First Year for Award
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Career / College Preparation

Lucas Allen Erin’s Elderberries

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Lucas Allen Erin’s Elderberries Scholarship Fund, established by a local entrepreneur, supports Fauquier County High School students pursuing their career goals. This $1,000 award requires applicants to be in good academic standing, demonstrate initiative, and provide a letter of recommendation from their employer. Priority is given to those exhibiting financial need and a work history. Managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, this fund aims to empower local students and enhance their educational journeys.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs

Lois R. Snead Arts & Crafts Scholarship Fund

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Lois R. Snead Arts & Crafts Scholarship Fund, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports students in Rappahannock County who are pursuing education in arts or crafts. Eligible applicants must be graduating high school seniors and demonstrate community service and academic initiative. Priority is given to first-generation students in financial need, ensuring that local talent can thrive in creative fields. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering community and artistic growth.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs

Lane E. Warren Scholarship Fund

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Lane E. Warren Scholarship Fund, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, offers a $1,000 award to a Madison County resident who is a high school graduate or graduating this year. This scholarship honors Lane E. Warren, a promising student whose life was tragically cut short. The selection criteria emphasize financial need and community service, supporting students pursuing college or certificate programs in their educational endeavors.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs

Anita Tarr Turk Fund for Breast Cancer Research

Community Foundation for Monterey County
Private
United States
US $60,000

Anita Tarr Turk Fund for Breast Cancer Research

The Anita Tarr Turk Fund for Breast Cancer Research was established in October 2011 as an endowed field of interest fund. Its purpose is to distribute grants annually to one or more charitable, educational or scientific organizations conducting top-level research searching for the cause of, and cure for, breast cancer.

Anita Tarr Turk encouraged the Community Foundation for Monterey (CFMC)’s board to consider grants to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and the California Breast Cancer Research Program. The Fund may also consider proposals from organizations conducting similar research. Due to the narrow field of interest and suggested organizations in the fund’s establishing documents, organizations are invited to share research projects for CFMC to consider.

Grant Amount

  • $60,000/year
Breast Cancer

Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois Highlights

Looking for grants for new nonprofits in Illinois?


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Grant Insights : Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

300+ Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

100+ Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois over $25K in average grant size

100+ Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois over $50K in average grant size

41 Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois supporting general operating expenses

200+ Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Art & Culture

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education - K through 12

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois?

Most grants are due in the second quarter.

Q1
23.3%
Q2
30.1%
Q3
25.9%
Q4
20.7%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois?

Grants are most commonly $110,000.

$500 $500 Min.
$110,000 $110 K Median
$1,267,626 $1.3 M Average
$68,450,000 $68.5 M Max.

Average Grant Size

What's the typical amount funded for Illinois?

Grants are most commonly $104,222.

$104,222

Total Number of Grants

What's the total number of grants in Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois year over year?

In 2024, funders in Illinois awarded a total of 104,158 grants.

2022 97,582

2023 97,805

2024 104,158

Top Grant Focus Areas

Among all the Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois 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 Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois changing over time?

Funding has increased by 16.08%.

2022 $8,503,243,276

2023 $9,316,300,812
9.56%

2024 $10,813,952,832
16.08%

Illinois Counties That Receive the Most Funding

How does grant funding vary by county?

Cook County, Lake County, and Macon County receive the most funding.

County Total Grant Funding in 2024
Cook County $6,893,460,213
Lake County $720,580,526
Macon County $544,478,272
Champaign County $541,704,331
Dupage County $496,099,366