Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

The Arthur F. Burns Fellowship offers journalists from the U.S., Canada, and Germany a unique opportunity to enhance their skills through a two-month exchange program. Participants engage in a structured orientation in Washington, D.C., followed by hands-on training at German media outlets. This fellowship not only enriches careers but also fosters international understanding, with many alumni advancing in prominent media roles globally. With financial support for living and travel expenses, this program significantly enhances the quality of transatlantic news coverage.

Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation

The mission of Susan G. Komen® is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.

Susan G. Komen Career Catalyst Research (CCR) Grants

Susan G. Komen Career Catalyst Research (CCR) Grants foster promising breast cancer researchers who are in the early stages of their faculty careers by providing support for up to three years of “protected time” for research career development under the guidance of a Mentor Committee. We seek to support those who will emerge as the next key leaders in the fight against breast cancer.

CCR Research Focus: Research projects must be hypothesis-driven, breast cancer-focused studies. They may be considered basic, translational, clinical and/or population science in nature and should align with Komen’s research priorities and mission to save lives from breast cancer. 

The AED Grant Program, run by the Hopey’s Heart Foundation, aims to enhance sports safety by providing life-saving AEDs to eligible schools and recreational centers. Although the program is currently closed, it will reopen for applications in April 2026. The Foundation focuses on preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest among student athletes through education and medical equipment. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities and government bodies, ensuring broader access to vital resources for sports safety.

The Stanley Fahn Junior Faculty Award, offered by the Parkinson's Foundation, supports early-career scientists in Parkinson's research. With $300,000 in funding over three years, it aims to bridge the gap for junior faculty transitioning to independent research. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD or MD and be U.S. or Canadian faculty members. This award promotes innovative research proposals that advance understanding and treatment of Parkinson's disease, fostering the next generation of scientists in this critical field.

The Alice M. Ditson Fund supports recording projects that aim to document and promote the music of younger, lesser-known American composers. The fund prioritizes living composers of classical concert music, especially those in the early stages of their careers, while also recognizing established composers who deserve greater visibility. Eligible applicants include organizations with a fiscal sponsor or non-profit status, and projects must involve significant contemporary American music.

The Aim High Grant Program offers one-year grants of $20,000 to support out-of-school time programs for middle school youth. Funded by the New York Life Foundation, this initiative aims to enhance students' transition to high school by providing essential skills and guidance. Programs must demonstrate effective engagement strategies and serve low-income communities. This grant represents a vital investment in the future of young people, helping them develop academically, socially, and emotionally.

The Friends of Reservoirs: Small Grant program offers annual grants of $2,000 to member organizations of Friends of Reservoirs, with additional product donations bringing the total value over $3,500. This initiative, supported by generous sponsors, aims to enhance reservoir fisheries habitats. Applicants should note a $25 application fee, which contributes directly to the grant fund. This program focuses on fostering community engagement and improving aquatic ecosystems.

The Earthwatch Institute's Teach Earth Fellowship connects K-12 teachers with scientists through immersive research expeditions. Celebrating 50 years, this program empowers educators to inspire students with hands-on environmental science experiences. Teachers gain confidence, collaborate with peers, and develop impactful curricula. The fellowship includes workshops, networking opportunities, and resources to enhance environmental education in classrooms. Participants return with renewed purpose, ready to engage their communities in conservation efforts.

The Manny Heaton Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Manny Heaton, a vibrant individual whose life was tragically cut short in April 2023. Established by his father, Tom Heaton, this annual scholarship supports the children of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI) employees. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.0, planning to attend college or technical school, reflecting Manny's dedication and resilience.

The Arthritis Foundation's Clinical Fellowship RFP aims to address the rheumatology workforce shortage by inviting applications from institutions with clinical training programs. It encourages innovative training approaches to prepare future rheumatologists for the evolving needs of the arthritis community. Funding includes $150,000 for a two-year adult fellowship, $225,000 for a three-year pediatric fellowship, and $300,000 for a four-year Med-Peds fellowship, all designed to enhance access to specialized care.

The Craft Artists Emergency Relief Grant provides $3,000 to U.S.-based individual craft artists aged 18 and older who are facing recent, unforeseen emergencies. Established by the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) in 1985, this grant aims to empower artists during critical times, allowing them to use the funds as needed for recovery. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for artists in distress.

The CERF: Artist Get Ready Grant offers up to $1,000 to craft artists for safeguarding their studios and preparing for emergencies. Priority is given to underrepresented artists, including BIPOC and folk/traditional artists. Eligible activities encompass studio safety upgrades and disaster readiness. Applicants must be 18 years or older, residing in the U.S. for two years, and not have received this grant in the previous year. Funds must be used within six months, with outcomes documented for CERF+.

The FY26 Autism Research Program Career Development Award aims to support early-career investigators in conducting innovative research that can significantly impact autism. It encourages applications addressing specific areas of interest and mandates community collaboration for projects involving pilot clinical trials. Proposals must include partnerships with community members for effective planning and implementation, ensuring that the research is grounded in the needs of the autism community.

The AABCF Research Grants, offered by the American Association of Birth Centers Foundation, provide funding up to $5,000 for research projects focused on the birth center model of care. Open to individuals and organizations, these grants aim to enhance knowledge and practices in maternity and women's health care. Projects must demonstrate a clear plan and ability to complete the research on schedule, ensuring impactful contributions to the field.

The FY26 Autism Research Program's Idea Development Award from the US DOD aims to support groundbreaking research that improves outcomes for Autistic individuals. This award encourages innovative, high-risk projects that can lead to significant advancements in autism research. Applications must address specific areas of interest or justify the importance of the research problem. A unique Partnering Principal Investigator option allows two researchers to collaborate on a single project, enhancing the potential for impactful discoveries.

The FY26 Autism Research Program Clinical Trial Award aims to rapidly implement clinical trials that significantly impact autism treatment and management. Projects may range from small proof-of-concept trials to large-scale studies assessing efficacy in relevant populations. Applications are encouraged to partner experienced and early-career investigators and must include community collaborations to enhance research impact. At least one community partner is required to provide ongoing consultation throughout the project.

The Goodridge Brothers Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports residents of Saginaw County pursuing careers in technical education, such as welding or auto mechanics. This initiative recognizes the growing demand for skilled tradespeople and aims to alleviate financial barriers for students. Scholarships typically range from $500 to $4,000, promoting educational opportunities in urban and regional planning and enhancing the community's workforce capabilities.

Devinci's Community Grant Program aims to support North American cycling organizations with financial assistance for development projects. Eligible applicants include cycling clubs, non-profits, and individuals leading community initiatives. Projects must occur in Canada or the U.S. within the year, with a maximum grant of $5,000 CAD. The program collaborates with key industry partners to foster growth in the cycling community, making a lasting impact through local initiatives.

The ChemClub Student Scholarship, offered by the American Chemical Society and the American Association of Chemistry Teachers, supports high school seniors who are active members of a Chartered ChemClub. Eligible students must demonstrate academic excellence and express their commitment to STEM fields. This scholarship provides financial assistance directly to the recipient's chosen college, fostering future leaders in chemistry and related disciplines.

William L. & Mary Ann Brown STEM Endowment Scholarship Program

The William L. & Mary Ann Brown STEM Endowed Scholarship Program was established by William L. and Mary Ann Brown to provide need-based scholarship support to seniors graduating from a high school in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, enrolled at a UNCF member institution, four-year HBCUs, and four-year institutions.

Successful applicants must be graduating high school seniors entering their first year of college, pursuing a STEM degree, including, but not limited to, fields in physical sciences, mathematics, the biological sciences, the chemical sciences, computer sciences, and engineering. Applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll as a full-time student.

The Parkinson Association of the Rockies Eric Wright Memorial Fund honors Eric Wright's legacy by providing scholarships to high school seniors and college students affected by Parkinson Disease. Recipients, eligible for up to $20,000 over four years, are selected based on merit and financial need. This fund aims to inspire the next generation while supporting students who have experienced loss or hardship due to this condition, promoting education and resilience within the community.

The AISES Sports and Technology Scholarship aims to empower Indigenous students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Sponsored by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, this scholarship supports American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and First Nations students, ensuring they have the financial resources needed to excel. Eligible applicants must be full-time students in accredited programs and demonstrate tribal affiliation, contributing to a diverse future in technology and science.

Jack Beaty Educational Scholarship Foundation Grant

Jack Beaty was a pillar of the community he lived in and loved. He was a successful businessman from an early age having founded two companies. One company supplied food to retail stores throughout New Mexico, where Jack became friends with all his customers and fell in love with the state. He founded an oil and gas company in Farmington, New Mexico as well.

Jack eventually became involved in politics in New Mexico where he served as the Bernalillo County Democratic Chairman and the New Mexico State Democratic Chairman. During the 1960 Presidential campaign, Jack became friends with John F. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy. Jack served as the Western States coordinator for the Kennedy campaign. After the 1960 election, Jack sold his food supply business and moved to Washington, D.C. Jack served in both the Kennedy and Johnson Administrations. Following this service, Jack formed the public relations firm Jack Beaty and Associates in Washington, D.C.

While in Washington, D.C., Jack met and married Rose Marie Beaty Martinez, the personal assistant to Senator Joseph M. Montoya, the United States Senator from Mexico. Jack and Rose Marie retired to New Mexico in 1979 where Jack devoted his time to managing Western Minerals and Oil. Jack desired that upon his and Rose Marie’s death that his estate be used to assist and provide access to education to less fortunate students in New Mexico.

In his estate plan, Jack desired that the Jack Beaty Educational Scholarship Foundation be established to carry out his charitable goal of assisting students to obtain a secondary education.

About Us

Our mission is to strengthen our community through philanthropy.

We do this in collaboration with donors and community partners who share our vision for community transformation through stewardship of charitable endowments, superior donor services, effective grantmaking, and leadership to address community needs.

The Community Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors and staffed by a team of local experts, representing diverse backgrounds, interests, and professional expertise. Foundation staff members work closely with donors, grantees, community leaders, government agencies, and businesses to ensure the Community Foundation effectively meets community needs.

Who We Are

Empowering generous people with meaningful giving opportunities

Since 1968, The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region (CFGCR) has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Greater Capital Region. We work with — and for — all our neighbors across the community because together, we are stronger.

Herbert K. and Isabel C. Liebich Scholarships

Established to honor the founders of Albany Frosted Foods, one of the original companies to form Sysco Corporation, by awarding a scholarship each year to the children of employees or retirees of Sysco Foods of New York, Inc. 

The OREF/Goldberg Arthritis Research Grant aims to support innovative research proposals focused on arthritis treatment, particularly arthroplasty. It seeks to foster new investigators by providing seed funding for projects that demonstrate clinical relevance and potential for practical application. Proposals must highlight their orthopaedic significance and aim to advance research that could lead to larger scale funding opportunities, enhancing the field of orthopaedics.

The Small Business Transition Grant for New Entrepreneurs, funded by the NIH, aims to support early-career scientists as they transition into entrepreneurship. This program invites eligible small business concerns to apply for STTR Phase I and Fast-Track grant applications, which include funding for research and development, as well as essential entrepreneurial training and mentorship. It is designed for first-time Principal Investigators, emphasizing the importance of industry mentorship in project development.

The Bonita Kraft Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Scholarship, valued at $5,000, supports doctoral candidates in occupational therapy focusing on mental health research. This scholarship honors Bonita Kraft, a dedicated advocate for integrating occupational therapy into mental health services. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral program, have IRB approval, and conduct research addressing chronic mental health conditions in adults. The scholarship aims to enhance the visibility of occupational therapy within mental health treatment.