Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Illinois

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Computer Science Studies, awarded by the UNICO Foundation, offers four scholarships of $1,000 each to full-time students pursuing a degree in Computer Science at accredited U.S. colleges. Eligible applicants must reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor, be U.S. citizens aged 18 or older, and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Special Programs for the Aging (Title III, Part C1) in Illinois offer essential nutrition services, providing at least one hot meal daily to participants, five days a week. This program supports both congregate meal sites and home-delivered options, ensuring that seniors receive the nutrition they need. Eligible applicants include government and nonprofit organizations, specifically Area Agencies on Aging in Illinois, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for older adults.

The Blue Impact Grant by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois supports community-based non-profit organizations focused on improving health equity in Illinois. This grant program emphasizes addressing social determinants of health, including economic opportunity, food access, and health outcomes. Eligible organizations must align with BCBSIL's mission and serve Illinois residents. Applications are welcomed from tax-exempt entities under section 501(c)(3), with a commitment to fostering sustainable community solutions.

Community Health Center Construction Grants - Rebuild Illinois

Pursuant to 30 ILCS 766, the Community Health Center Construction Act ("Act"), the Capital Development Board ("CDB") (in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Public Health) is authorized to make grants available to Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and FQHC Look-Alikes which serve, in whole or in part, a designated Medically Underserved Area (“MUA”) or Medically Underserved Population (“MUP”) both as defined in the Act, for health center construction projects.

The Envisioning Justice Grants by Illinois Humanities support nonprofits using arts and humanities to foster justice and community engagement. With a focus on mass incarceration, these grants prioritize projects that are regional and partnership-oriented, benefiting vulnerable populations. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to applicants across Illinois, particularly from areas with significant incarceration rates. Accessibility and media funds are also offered to enhance project outreach and inclusivity.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Illinois offers financial assistance to develop essential community facilities in rural areas, such as healthcare, public safety, and educational services. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations serving communities with populations under 20,000. Funding can cover construction, equipment, and project expenses. Grants are awarded based on community income levels, with varying percentages of project costs covered depending on the population size and income criteria.

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.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

CON Level of Care Support Services Grant Program

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the construction, renovation, rehabilitation, expansion, and improvement of facilities that serve youth and families. Through this investment, the Department seeks to strengthen service capacity, improve safety and accessibility, address facility deficiencies, and enhance the quality of environments in which services are delivered.

Funding may be used to support projects that improve the availability, condition, functionality, security, accessibility, or suitability of facilities used to provide residential, treatment, supportive, or other Department approved services. The Department intends to invest in projects that demonstrate a clear need, readiness for implementation, and the potential to improve outcomes for youth and families served.

Examples of allowable grant activities include:

• Demolition (in preparation for additional work)
• Site preparation and improvement
• New construction of buildings and structures
• Reconstruction or improvement of existing buildings or structure
• Specialized furnishings and equipment
• Replacement of currently utilized assets by a better asset
• Expansion of existing buildings or facilities
• Direct costs which significantly increases the service potential of a current building or structure
• Work that contains repairs, maintenance, remodeling, or rehabilitation

Funding Information

• Opportunity Funding - $30,000,000.00
• Award Ceiling - $10,000,000.00
• Award Floor - $250,000.00

The Robert J. Tarte Scholarship for Italian Studies, offered by the UNICO Foundation, supports students of Italian descent pursuing a major or minor in Italian Studies or Language. Valued at $1,000, this scholarship is awarded to full-time undergraduate students attending accredited institutions in the U.S. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies through the 2026-2027 academic year, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Special Education, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for U.S. students pursuing degrees in Special Education. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to continue their studies into the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship supports students with various disabilities, ensuring that education is accessible and equitable for all.

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.

Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation

The Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation (ILCHF) has a single vision that: every child in Illinois grows up healthy. Working with grantee partners across the state, ILCHF focuses its grant making on identifying and funding solutions to address the barriers that prevent children from accessing the ongoing healthcare they need, with a primary focus on children’s oral health and mental health.

ILCHF was created in December 2002 through an action of then-Attorney General Jim Ryan and an Illinois insurance carrier. This action and a settlement of approximately $125 million established Illinois’ only statewide private foundation focused solely on the health needs of children. Since inception, ILCHF has awarded approximately $149 million in nearly 900 grants to more than 300 organizations across the state.

“Bright Minds, Bright Smiles”: Mental and Oral Health Integration Initiative

The Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation (ILCHF) seeks to provide 20 three-year grants of up to $300,000 each (for a total investment of $6,000,000) to eligible children’s safety-net organizations that are sustaining and enhancing the coordination of existing children’s mental health or oral health services for Illinois children from vulnerable communities.

Examples of eligible projects include, but are not limited to, sustaining direct service provision to children, strengthening care coordination, enhancing referral networks, expanding co-located services in community settings, and building capacity to better serve children enrolled in Medicaid.

ILCHF is proud to support organizations working to strengthen the children’s healthcare safety net across Illinois and ensure that every child in Illinois grows up healthy.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources offers the Volunteer Fire Assistance Program to support rural fire departments by covering 50% of eligible project costs, up to $10,000. This grant aids in purchasing fire equipment, including radios and protective gear. Projects must be competitive, and funds can only be used for fire-related initiatives, excluding EMS and rescue services. Eligible applicants must serve communities with populations under 10,000 and have a Memorandum of Understanding with IDNR.

The Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant Program supports Conservation Land Trusts in enhancing stewardship on dedicated Nature Preserves and Land and Water Reserves. Funded by the Illinois Natural Areas Acquisition Fund, these grants are crucial for protecting natural areas and habitats for endangered species. This initiative aims to empower conservation efforts, ensuring the sustainability of Illinois' natural resources through effective stewardship practices.

The Impaired Driving Prevention Program in Illinois aims to enhance roadway safety by addressing alcohol and drug-related impaired driving. With a funding amount of $8,000,000, the program focuses on raising public awareness, implementing prevention strategies, and providing resources to law enforcement. It encourages community involvement and educational initiatives to reduce traffic fatalities and promote responsible behaviors. The program supports various eligible applicants, including local governments and nonprofits, to foster a collaborative approach to combating impaired driving.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) engages individuals aged 55 and older in meaningful volunteer service to address critical community needs. This initiative, supported by the Illinois Department on Aging, enhances the quality of life for volunteers while providing essential services to the community. With a focus on utilizing the skills and experiences of older adults, RSVP fosters partnerships with various organizations to ensure impactful volunteer opportunities. The program exemplifies a commitment to dignity, independence, and the enrichment of lives.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Therapy Sciences, provided by the UNICO Foundation, awards two scholarships valued at $2,500 each to full-time students pursuing degrees in Therapy Sciences, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, and speech-language pathology. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship promotes educational advancement within the community.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Adult Protective Services Technology Modernization Grant provides funding to assist Illinois service providers in upgrading their technology to improve efficiency in serving older adults. Eligible applicants include various government and nonprofit organizations that have previously submitted a letter of intent. The grant supports reimbursement for qualifying technology purchases, excluding large items over $5,000, ensuring agencies can enhance their service delivery capabilities effectively.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Huntington Impact Investment Philanthropy Grant Program aims to strengthen communities by supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance self-sufficiency and social equality. With a focus on areas such as community revitalization, affordable housing, and economic development, the program prioritizes initiatives that serve low- and moderate-income individuals. Organizations with IRS tax-exempt status can apply for funding to address critical community needs, fostering a more equitable environment for all.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Special Programs for the Aging grant provides funding to enhance the quality of life for older adults in Illinois. Administered by the Illinois Department on Aging, it supports services that promote independence, such as transportation, in-home care, and community services. The program also funds multi-purpose senior centers that offer meals, health screenings, and educational activities, ensuring seniors have access to essential resources and support to remain in their homes and communities.