Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

The Alzheimer's Disease Programs Initiative (ADPI) offers State and Community Grants to enhance dementia-capable home and community-based service systems. Option A targets state agencies to develop sustainable HCBS systems, while Option B focuses on community-based organizations to fill service gaps for individuals with dementia. Both options aim to provide quality support for those living with dementia and their caregivers, fostering independence and safety in their communities.

The Urban Indian Health Program - Education & Research collaborates with the US Dept. of Health & Human Services to enhance educational and research opportunities for urban Indian populations. This initiative aims to address health disparities and ensure that urban Indians have access to quality health services and information. By partnering with various urban Indian organizations, the program fosters community engagement and empowers individuals through education and research, ultimately improving health outcomes.

The Tribal Management Grant program is designed to empower tribes and tribal organizations by enabling them to take over functions and services of the Indian Health Service. Under the Public Law 93-638, this initiative aims to enhance their health management capabilities, fostering self-determination and improved healthcare delivery. The Indian Health Service plans to provide between five and sixteen awards to support this vital development in tribal health management.

About Us

Our Mission

The Marfan Foundation drives research, education and support – and builds community – to improve outcomes, save lives and empower all people to thrive who are living with Marfan, Loeys-Dietz, Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, and related genetic aortic and vascular conditions.

Our Vision

Quality of life, longevity, and cures for all people with genetic aortic and vascular conditions.

Innovators Award

This is for faculty investigators for $100,000 over 2 years ($50,000 per year), to explore an innovative concept in “translational” science that has applicability to improving human health. Examples could include fundamental research, diagnostic tests, biomarkers, biomedical engineering advances, and imaging advances. Collection of data for improved evidence-based medical guidance are of great interest.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Cold Noses Foundation Grant aims to support organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals, including domestic pets, wildlife, and farm animals. Grants are available to U.S. non-profits and selected international equivalents with an annual income of $200,000 or less. The foundation emphasizes accountability, requiring detailed financial reporting and adherence to ethical standards. Deadlines for applications vary by region, ensuring timely funding for impactful animal welfare projects.

The Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program, initiated by Quad City Arts, provides emerging artists aged 15-21 the opportunity to create public artwork while receiving mentorship and financial support. Since 2000, this program has enriched the Quad Cities' cultural landscape through various artistic disciplines, including mural painting and graphic design. Participants engage in collaborative projects, developing their skills under professional guidance, and receive stipends of $500 or $750 for senior apprentices, fostering personal and professional growth.

The Louise Wachter Wickham Scholarship, established in 1997 by Donna Wickham Furth, supports high school seniors pursuing a degree in elementary education. This scholarship is awarded based on financial need and academic performance. Recipients must demonstrate commitment to education and may need to submit additional documents such as transcripts and recommendation letters. The fund honors Louise Wachter Wickham, a dedicated teacher who believed in the transformative power of education.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Adirondack Construction Scholarship

A scholarship established by Adirondack Construction in Vernon to support the future career goals of students pursuing business or construction management.

The Marshfield Utilities Scholarship, offered by the Marshfield Area Community Foundation, aims to support local students who are customers of Marshfield Utilities. This scholarship is specifically for those pursuing studies in engineering, natural sciences, or vocational fields. Preference is given to full-time university students, reinforcing the Foundation's mission of enhancing education and community well-being in the Marshfield area.

The SWE Quad Cities Section Scholarship offers a $1,000 scholarship for female students entering their junior or senior year at an ABET accredited engineering school. Established by the Society of Women Engineers in 2002, this scholarship supports local students within specific Iowa and Illinois zip codes. Eligible applicants must be members of SWE or join in the following academic year. This initiative encourages women to pursue engineering degrees and enhances diversity in the field.

The Rochelle Area Community Foundation Grants focus on supporting initiatives in arts, education, health, and community development, particularly in response to COVID-19's impact. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding to address local needs, enhance collaboration, and strengthen community involvement. Preference is given to innovative projects that have not received funding in the past three years, aiming to uplift individuals and families affected by financial hardships.

The Lesser Franklin Charitable Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations in Franklin Park, IL, focusing on various program areas including animal welfare, arts and culture, education, and health. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code, while individuals are not permitted to apply. This grant aims to enhance community development and promote social services in the region.

Cathy Geerlings Indomitable Spirit Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student with substantial work history or record of volunteering who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation; or a current college student with substantial work history or record of volunteering whose permanent address lies within the primary service area of the Community Foundation; or a currently employed worker from the greater Holland/Zeeland area, employed 20 or more hours per week, in human resources, manufacturing, skilled trades, semi-skilled trades, or other production-related areas with a greater Holland/Zeeland area company including temporary staffing agencies.

The Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) Diagnostic Research Innovation Center (DRIC), supported by NINDS, aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities for UDN participants. This initiative will foster collaboration among clinical networks and stakeholders to develop innovative diagnostic tools and strategies. The DRIC will also focus on the systematic evaluation of unresolved UDN cases, advancing genomic and non-genomic diagnostics, and discovering novel disease-associated genes. This forecast allows potential applicants to prepare and collaborate effectively for future projects.

The Jacob A. Bradley Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Bradley Family Foundation, offers a renewable annual scholarship for U.S. citizens graduating from Conroe Independent School District. This scholarship supports students pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business or Engineering, providing mentorship alongside financial aid. Eligible candidates must demonstrate strong character and leadership skills. The scholarship honors Jacob A. Bradley, whose legacy inspires students to succeed and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

About NCTM

Founded in 1920, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) is the world's largest mathematics education organization.

Mission Statement

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics advocates for high-quality mathematics teaching and learning for each and every student.

Designing Interventions that Support Learners with Disabilities (2-8)

The MET Fund sponsors this grant to support the development of engaging interventions for students with disabilities in grades 2-8. This grant encourages the implementation of interventions that develop 2 - 8 students’ conceptual understanding and expand mathematical fluency.

Purpose

This grant supports elementary teachers in designing, implementing, and sharing engaging hands-on interventions to support students’ conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts. This grant is specifically intended to support teachers of students who have disabilities. This grant could be used to fund materials, such as manipulatives. The expectation is that the recipient of the grant would share their interventions with other teachers and interventionists in their school/district, and beyond.

Award Type: Organizational

For MET grants, an organization is defined as a school, school district, university, or non-profit mathematics education organization. The primary applicant will indicate an organization to administer the finances of the grant when applying for the grant. The primary applicant MAY choose to administer the finances of the grant themselves; if so, they are responsible for reporting this award to the IRS on their personal tax return as income.

The AESEF Genelec Mike Chafee Audio Pioneering Scholarship supports exceptional women pursuing graduate studies in audio engineering. Named in honor of Michael Chafee, a significant figure in audio innovation, this scholarship aims to empower women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 and are awarded based on academic merit and commitment to audio engineering. Payment is made directly to the student’s graduate school, facilitating a smoother educational journey.

The Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants program, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, aids Native Communities in enhancing library services. It empowers Tribal libraries to adapt to evolving information needs and serve as vital resource centers. By addressing the unique priorities of each community, this initiative fosters knowledge sharing and supports the overall wellness of Tribal members, ensuring they have access to essential information and resources.

The Stark County Bar Association Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, aims to support law students pursuing a Juris Doctorate at accredited law schools. Since its inception in 1963, the Foundation has been instrumental in transforming lives through philanthropic efforts. The scholarship prioritizes applicants from the Stark County area who demonstrate financial need and intend to practice law in their home community, fostering local legal talent and serving community needs.

The Sheriff W. Bruce Umpleby Law Enforcement Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports Stark County residents who are high school graduates, aiming to pursue a career in law enforcement. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be enrolled in a post-secondary institution. This scholarship embodies the Foundation's commitment to empowering students and addressing community needs since its inception in 1963.

About

Six Decades of Human(e) Progress

At IHS, we build bridges across coalitions working to renew the liberal project—creating a 21st century that's freer, more tolerant, and more prosperous than any in human history.

This work takes on new urgency in a world of rising illiberalism and authoritarianism. Thanks to the generosity of over a thousand individual donors and foundations, IHS continues to find new ways to support the thinkers and leaders who are carrying liberal principles forward.

Impact

IHS works where ideas take root. We place smart bets on the people and research projects that are redrawing the boundaries of human potential in classrooms, in policy, and in public life.

Free Society Grants

For Faculty

Free Society Grants support faculty seeking to develop or expand undergraduate programming grounded in the liberal tradition. Grants are awarded based on project scope and need. The next application cycle opens March 13, 2026; the deadline is June 15, 2026. Funding decisions will be announced by August 7, 2026.

Support for Undergraduate Programming

These grants are designed for faculty who want to cultivate sustained intellectual engagement through mentorship, structured reading, and rigorous discussion—inside and beyond the classroom. The goal is not simply exposure to ideas, but intellectual formation.

All grants include access to ScholarsEdge digital tools, including registration support, to help ensure smooth execution and sustained engagement.

The Samuel Krugliak Legal Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports law students who demonstrate academic excellence and community commitment. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school and have ties to the Stark County Region. This scholarship aims to empower future legal professionals dedicated to serving their communities while fostering a diverse legal landscape.

Boone County Community Foundation Grants

The Boone County Community Foundation invites charitable organizations in Boone County to apply for a community grant funded by the Melvin & Mildred Banks Grant Fund and the Wilbur & William Cummings Grant Fund.

Wilbur & William Cummings Grant Fund

Wilbur and William Cummings were lifelong residents of Boone County. Pursuant to their interests, a grant program was established that enhances the Boone County community. The majority of the proceeds are available for the Boone County Fair Association and the Boone County Historical Society. The balance is reserved for at-large community purposes.

To award grants for projects that enhance the quality of life in Boone County.

The Level 2 Fair Housing Grant, offered by the National Association of Realtors, supports initiatives addressing fair housing issues within communities. With a maximum award of $7,500, this grant encourages associations to collaborate with local organizations to enhance outreach. Approved activities may include hosting educational symposiums, developing fair housing curricula, or creating promotional materials. This grant aims to foster inclusive communities by addressing housing opportunities and promoting awareness of fair housing rights.

The Level 2 Housing Opportunity Grants, provided by the National Association of REALTORS®, aim to address affordable housing challenges within communities. With a maximum award of $7,500, these grants encourage collaborations among local agencies to enhance housing access. Eligible activities include forums, expos, and studies that promote housing opportunities. Associations can receive one grant per year, and funds are disbursed via a reimbursement process, with requests due by December 19, 2025.

The Zur Hausen Scholarship, established in 2020 by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports students pursuing degrees in Engineering or Agriculture. This scholarship honors Edith and Elmar zur Hausen, who emigrated from Germany and dedicated their lives to the Wenatchee Valley. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors or graduates from Chelan or Douglas County, aiming to study at an accredited institution in the USA.