Best Grants for Teachers in Texas in Illinois

The Noncredit Strategies at Work (NSAW) Grant, offered by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance noncredit workforce training at community colleges. With $110,000 in funding for each college, the initiative focuses on developing training programs that lead to industry-recognized certifications and short-term credentials. This grant seeks to address employer needs and workforce shortages by strengthening the capacity of community colleges to deliver effective noncredit training solutions, ultimately benefiting over 500,000 Illinois residents annually.

The Illinois Community College Board has initiated the Digital Instruction for Adult Education grant to enhance technology access and digital skills for adult learners. This initiative aims to support Title II Adult Education and IELCE programs in upgrading their technology infrastructure, ensuring effective integration of technology in classrooms, and improving distance learning options. By fostering innovation through AI and increasing access to educational resources, the grant will empower individuals with foundational skills to transition into postsecondary education and the workforce.

The Scaling and Assessing Developmental Education Reform grant, funded by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance equitable, evidence-based developmental education initiatives. Established to support educational organizations, this grant encourages the evaluation and expansion of reform efforts that benefit women and other underserved populations in Illinois. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, the Illinois Community College System continues to provide vital educational opportunities to more than 500,000 residents annually.

The Scaling and Assessing Developmental Education Reform - PCC grant, offered by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance equitable, evidence-based developmental education across Illinois. With a history spanning over 50 years, the Illinois Community College System serves over 500,000 residents annually. This initiative seeks to support educational organizations in their efforts to assess and scale impactful reform strategies, ensuring accessible education for all.

The Adult Volunteer Literacy Grant Program

The Adult Volunteer Literacy Grant Program provides funding for educational agencies to provide Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English language instruction to qualified individuals using trained unpaid volunteer tutors.

The grant applications are being offered in advance of the provision of the state budget. The Illinois State Library makes these grant applications available so that award notification may be released when legislative and gubernatorial approval of the appropriation is made. Obligations to fund this grant program will cease immediately without penalty or further payment being required if the Illinois General Assembly or the federal funding source fails to appropriate or otherwise make available sufficient funds. 

Funding

Public funds awarded under this grant range up to $105,000 with first year awards being modest until the project is securely established. Only one grant is allowed per agency.

The Planning and Service Grants to Area Agencies on Aging provide essential funding for community-based services for older adults in Illinois. These grants support initiatives addressing social isolation, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia-friendly programs. Eligible applicants include government and nonprofit organizations that serve aging populations. By facilitating access to vital resources, these grants aim to enhance the quality of life for seniors statewide, ensuring they receive the support and services they need.

The Joyce Foundation's Democracy Grants aim to enhance participation and representation in the electoral process across the Great Lakes region. With a focus on combating voter suppression, gerrymandering, and disinformation, the Foundation supports policy changes that protect voting rights and ensure fair representation. Through public engagement and litigation, it seeks to empower communities of color and young voters, fostering a more equitable democracy for all residents.

The Workforce Training Support Program aims to assist Illinois manufacturers by providing financial support for workforce training. This initiative addresses the challenges of training and retaining skilled workers in the manufacturing sector. By covering up to 50% of training costs, the program encourages employers to enhance their employees' skills, ensuring a safe and productive work environment. This program supplements existing initiatives, ultimately strengthening the Illinois workforce and supporting local businesses.

The Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

CAR Specialized Care and Early Education Program

This grant award will have an initial period of performance starting in FY27 (07/01/2026 (or upon execution of the agreement) through 06/30/2029). A budget should be submitted for FY27 only.

Provider will deliver age-appropriate early education, developmental screenings, on-site health services, therapeutic supports, nutritious meals and specialized evidence-based curriculum. Additionally, the Provider will strengthen and stabilize families by assessing their needs and goals, developing service plans and coordinating services, including parent training, support groups, family engagement activities, counseling, and permanency planning, to prevent substitute care placement.

Provider will deliver services to increase access to early childhood education, healthcare and deliver family strengthening support services for children ages six weeks up to kindergarten, whose medical, developmental or behavioral issues would preclude admission to a conventional day care or early learning program. Services delivered shall prevent child abuse/neglect by providing specialized care and early education of children with training and support for their families that promote children’s wellbeing and positive parenting, using evidence-based interventions.

The Provider will be open for between the hours of 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday (excluding agency holidays). Program staff may operate outside the general agency hours based on client needs. Provider will offer the following services:

• high quality early education programs
• on-site health services capable of serving children with a range of medical, developmental and emotional issues
• family advocacy and support services
• mental health assessment, referral and therapy intervention
• parent leadership and engagement activities

Early Childhood Education 

Provider will deliver primary services including annual developmental screenings, ongoing assessment, onsite health services, specialized therapies and evidence-based curriculum. In addition, parents and caregivers are provided with supportive social services, educational health and nutrition education. Following licensing standards, age-appropriate classrooms shall provide learning environments designed to meet the needs of children affected by extreme poverty, illness, and developmental conditions. Provider staff must be specifically trained to provide quality care and early childhood education, to support the families through evidence-based early intervention curricula research-proven programs (ages 0–5) that improve social-emotional, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes.

Upon intake Provider will conduct an assessment and in conjunction with the parent/caregiver, will develop individual service plans for each child and parent/caregiver. Children’s developmental progress will be measured using an evidenced based curriculum and assessment tool, that evaluate children’s physical, social, emotional, cognitive and language development. Provider will use a developmental inventory screening tool to assess multiple developmental domains. Outcomes will be collected three times throughout the program year, and attendance will be accurately tracked and recorded daily at pick-up and drop-off. The Provider will gather parent feedback, both informally and through client surveys and assess parent understanding of child development through self-reports and ongoing staff interaction.

On-site health services 

Provider will offer on-site health services through a full-time, onsite Registered Nurse. The Nurse will conduct initial health intakes, for all children, ensure immunizations and health assessments are current, coordinate hearing, vision, and dental screenings, and collect regular reports from primary care physicians. The on-site nurse will maintain health records, document children’s medical and dental appointments, make home visits, and consult with parents on a child’s specific medical issues. A licensed physician will oversee the on-site nurse and provide consultation and monitoring as needed.

All children will receive an initial health assessment. Children 0-12 months will be reassessed weekly and children 13 months to five years will be reassessed monthly. The on-site Nurse will follow-up with parents when children exams or screenings are due, when further care is recommended, and will document all follow-up actions and appointments. Children will receive on-site hearing and vision screenings every three months.

Family Advocacy and Support services

Will be offered and will include information, resources, and referrals to help families support children’s health and development, family stability, positive parent child relationships, and effective parenting practices. Provider will link parents to partner organizations and external services as needed. These supports advance safety, permanency and wellbeing of high-risk children.

Mental health assessment, referral and therapy intervention services

May be conducted by a licensed mental health or social service professional for child or families as needed.

Parent leadership and engagement activities

Will be offered through parent-teacher conferences, home visits, parent meetings, parent skills training and a voluntary parent advisory council. The Provider will also engage in community strengthening and collaborate with Head Start/Early Head Start agencies, Start Early programs, public school systems and other community based social service providers, maintaining fidelity to Early Head Start and national accreditation standards.

Meals and snacks:

Provider will offer nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack options to children in the program daily.

The Mental Health Juvenile Justice (MHJJ) Program connects the Illinois Juvenile Court System, schools, and communities to support youth at risk of mental health issues. The MHJJ Liaison facilitates referrals and provides training to stakeholders, ensuring youth receive necessary services. Additionally, the program addresses systemic inequities, promoting diversity and inclusivity within the service provision process. The Illinois Department of Human Services emphasizes collaboration and community-based support to enhance the well-being of at-risk youth.

The Illinois Community College Board is offering the Strengthening Mental Health Supports grant to enhance mental health resources at community colleges. Grants range from $50,000 to $180,000, aiming to support 45 colleges in activities such as mental health training for staff, developing peer support programs, and fostering partnerships. This initiative is designed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and implement evaluation strategies, ultimately improving the mental health landscape for over 500,000 students annually.

Expense Based Substance Use Disorders and Gambling Disorder Services

Single Award Range 

• $50000 - $300000

Estimated Total Program Funding 

• 3500000.00

The IDHS/DBHR through this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is seeking providers to provide prevention and outreach services to individuals and the general community around gambling disorder. Applicants with gambling disorder experience are preferred though all applicants will be considered. Applicants may apply for innovative outreach and/or prevention services including school-based prevention curriculums identified by IDHS/DBHR. In SFY27, the Department anticipates the availability of approximately $3,500,000 in total funding for applicant and any subgrantees. The grant period will begin July 1, 2026, and will end on June 30, 2027, with the option to renew for an additional two full years, if funding is available. The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award. Services may not be provided until a contract is fully executed by the Department.

The State agency's funding priorities or focus areas.

• IDHS is working to counteract systemic racism and inequity, and to prioritize and maximize diversity throughout its service provision process. This work involves addressing existing institutionalized inequities, aiming to create transformation, and operationalizing equity and racial justice. It also focuses on the creation of a culture of inclusivity for all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.
• The IDHS/DBHR is seeking organizations with a history coordinating gambling disorder engagement and screening events though new organizations will be considered.

The goals, objectives and deliverables of this program are:

• The award will contribute to achieving the program's goals and objectives by ensuring the statewide provision of services that accomplish the deliverables noted below. Services will be designed to support and inform individuals with potential gambling problems, their friends/family members, and the general community.
• Organizations will provide for the production and publication, in electronic and other formats, of gambling prevention, recognition, treatment, and recovery literature and other public education methods.

The Illinois Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in high-poverty areas. It focuses on academic enrichment and offers various services including tutoring, youth development, and family engagement. Funded by the Illinois State Board of Education, the program supports partnerships to ensure equitable access to educational resources, with awards ranging from $50,000 to $600,000 to eligible entities serving low-income students and their families.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Equitable Energy Future Grant Program, launched by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, aims to provide crucial seed and pre-development funding to contractors. This initiative supports renewable energy and energy efficiency projects specifically benefiting historically disadvantaged communities. By addressing capital barriers, the program fosters business and community development, ensuring that these vital projects can thrive. Funding ranges from $250,000 to $1,000,000, encouraging early applications as funds are limited.

The Strengthening Families and Communities Grant by Telligen Community Initiative focuses on enhancing the resilience of youth and families through community-based funding. This initiative is transitioning to two-year funding periods, with applications due in March and October for different states. The grant aims to address social determinants of health, providing targeted support based on extensive applicant feedback. The program emphasizes a narrowed applicant pool to ensure more consistent funding for impactful projects.

The Special Programs for the Aging: Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Services in Illinois aim to enhance preventive health services through collaboration with designated Agencies on Aging. This initiative is designed to support government and nonprofit organizations, focusing on improving health outcomes for older adults in the state. Eligible agencies can apply to strengthen their health promotion systems and better serve the aging population.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The EDA Chicago FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development through comprehensive planning and technical assistance. By supporting the development and implementation of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), EDA empowers designated organizations, including Indian Tribes, to create jobs and foster economic resilience in distressed areas. This initiative focuses on strategic investments to facilitate effective economic development practices, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity across regions.

Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (the “Department” or “IDOA”) is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to provide grants through the Local Food and Infrastructure Grant Act [505 ILCS 92] and Administrative Code Title 8: Agriculture and Animals Chapter I: Department of Agriculture Subchapter m: Marketing Programs Part 340 Local Food Infrastructure Grant. The purpose of this program is for the development of local food processing, aggregation and distribution.

The General Assembly finds that the following conditions exist in this State:

• Small fruit, vegetable, and livestock farmers are vital to the health and wealth of Illinois communities, yet Illinois does not currently have infrastructure in place to support local food farmers or to feed Illinois communities.
• An estimated 95% of the food consumed in Illinois is purchased from outside of our borders, resulting in the export of billions of food dollars outside our State rather than the enhancement of our local food economies.
• A shift of just 10% toward local food purchasing by Illinois individuals, families, schools, institutions, and State agencies could generate billions in economic growth for our State.
• For Illinois families, businesses, schools, and institutions to shift their purchasing practices, Illinois must invest in supporting critical local food infrastructure needed to bolster processing, aggregation, and distribution of local food.

The General Assembly determines and declares that there exist conditions in the State that require the Department to issue grants on behalf of the State for the development of local food processing, aggregation, and distribution. (505 ILCS 92/10) Sec. 10 (a) and (b).

All grant funding provided under this Act must be used for purchasing, leasing to own, renting, building, or installing infrastructure related to the processing, storage, aggregation, or distribution of value-added agricultural products.

Opportunity Funding

• $3,600,000.00

Funding Sources

• State

Funding Source Description 

• This grant program is utilizing state funds appropriated by Public Act 104-0003, Section 205 and Section 210. Total amount of funding expected to be awarded through this NOFO is $3,600,000. Awards will range from $1,000 to $250,000.

The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.

The JIFS Juvenile Inpatient Forensic Services, managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services, offers crucial inpatient treatment for juveniles ordered by the courts due to mental health issues. The program focuses on a comprehensive approach, including psychiatric assessments, medication management, and individualized therapy. Furthermore, it aims to address systemic inequities by promoting diversity and inclusivity in its service delivery, ensuring all individuals receive equitable support regardless of their background.

The Pharmacy Support Program, initiated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), aims to enhance access to pharmacy services across Illinois. This initiative will provide grants to a statewide retail association representing pharmacies, particularly focusing on critical access care pharmacies and those serving underserved populations. The program emphasizes equitable economic opportunities and supports pharmacies facing challenges in areas with low population density and high poverty levels.

The Prostate Cancer Outreach and Screening initiative by the Illinois Department of Public Health aims to enhance awareness and screening for prostate cancer among high-risk populations, particularly Black non-Hispanic and Hispanic males. This program leverages data-driven strategies to address areas with high incidence and mortality rates. Funding supports one nonprofit organization to implement outreach efforts statewide, aligning with the 2022-2027 Illinois Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan and USPSTF guidelines.