Best Job Creation Grants in Illinois

Nonprofits and workforce organizations in Illinois providing clean energy job training and supportive services can apply for the Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program, with awards of US $500,000. With a mission to expand clean energy workforce opportunities, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity supports employer-driven training for traditionally underserved participants seeking self-sustaining employment.

Illinois businesses planning large-scale capital projects that create significant new Illinois jobs can access funding through Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for site development and expansion. Awards of US $250,000 - US $25,000,000 support land and building acquisition, construction, infrastructure, utilities, and durable equipment for companies in targeted industries relocating to or expanding within Illinois.

Illinois nonprofit organizations working on job creation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development can seek community sponsorship funding that supports events, operations, and general fundraising. Focused on strengthening local economies, First National Bank of Omaha invites applicants whose programs advance small business development, job readiness, and broader community well-being in its served communities.

Nonprofit organizations building pathways out of poverty through education, job training, or job creation in Illinois can access multi-year, unrestricted support and intensive capacity-building help, with awards of US $125,000 - US $175,000 per year. Arbor Brothers supports second-stage 501(c)(3) organizations across the U.S., prioritizing those serving under-resourced communities and ready for strategic growth.

Nonprofit organizations working on job creation, workforce development, and economic opportunity in Illinois can seek Impact Grants to expand their programs. With a mission to strengthen communities, First National Bank of Omaha provides support for affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization, small business development and entrepreneurship, and adult financial literacy, education, and vocational training.

Nonprofit organizations planning capital projects that support job creation and community development in Illinois can apply for First National Bank of Omaha’s capital or major donations. Funding supports capital campaigns, construction, renovation, or other major projects advancing areas like entrepreneurship, small business development, workforce development, and affordable housing in FNBO’s service communities.

Illinois units of general local government seeking to support job creation and economic development can apply for the Community Development Block Grant Economic Development Program, with awards up to US $1,000,000. Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, funds benefit private businesses through job-creating projects and related public infrastructure improvements.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Illinois working on economic and community development, workforce readiness, or financial wellness may be eligible for matching donations through Regions Bank’s Matching Gifts Program. Gifts from full-time associates or recent retirees can be doubled to support job creation, small-business development, housing, and related community initiatives.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The Big Bets Fellowship: Economic Opportunity in the United States is a transformative 4-month program designed to empower emerging leaders to tackle economic challenges head-on. With a focus on innovative solutions for job creation, affordable housing, and equitable access to resources, the fellowship equips participants with essential skills and a supportive network. The initiative aims to drive systemic change and promote sustainable economic prosperity, addressing inequalities while fostering resilient communities across the nation.

The Christopher Family Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations focused on employment, entrepreneurship, and food security, primarily in Chicago's Austin neighborhood. They aim to support pathways to family-sustaining wages, foster local entrepreneurship, and enhance food access. Eligibility includes organizations that demonstrate excellence, collaborative learning, and a commitment to the community. The foundation prefers programmatic support and does not fund individuals, governmental entities, or housing services. Overall, CFF seeks to empower the community and improve quality of life.

The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation Grant supports the Armenian community in Armenia and the U.S., focusing on Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. The Foundation prioritizes education, healthcare, arts, and youth development through grants to registered non-profits. Proposals should demonstrate sustainability and community impact, with favorable consideration given to projects that engage local stakeholders and foster collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round, with a maximum funding limit of $10,000 for operational expenses.

Nonprofit institutions working to create jobs and strengthen rural economies in Illinois can access funding through the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Rural Cooperative Development Grants, with awards up to US $1,000,000. Grants help establish and operate centers that provide technical assistance to start, expand, or improve cooperatives and mutually owned rural businesses.

City governments working on workforce and job creation initiatives in Illinois can access funding and intensive support via the Municipal Workforce Learning Lab. Focused on municipal workforce development, Georgia Municipal Association invites cities to join an eight-month National League of Cities program offering coaching, technical assistance, and peer connections to improve recruitment, training, and retention strategies.

Illinois organizations that run senior volunteer programs to support job readiness, housing, behavioral health, or other community needs can access funding through Volunteer Mississippi’s AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Opportunity. Grants up to Up to US $75,000 help engage volunteers 55+ in activities like workforce preparation, housing support, and services that contribute to local job creation.

Economic development entities planning industrial sites in Illinois can apply for Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity funding; awards up to US $75,000 for site readiness due diligence and planning. This program prepares 27 acres of industrial property in Marion to attract private investment and create new job opportunities in industrial sectors.

Tribal governments and Alaska Native villages seeking to develop housing, infrastructure, or economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents in Illinois and nationwide can apply for the Indian Community Development Block Grant program. Grants from US HUD: Office of Public and Indian Housing help fund community development, job creation, and business development projects, including imminent threat needs affecting public health or safety.

The MPPEP Phase 3 program aims to enhance processing capabilities for invasive, wild-caught catfish, benefiting both processors and fishers. By increasing processing capacity and volume, the initiative seeks to create fair wages and stable job opportunities, fostering economic growth in rural areas. This grant will support innovative strategies that ensure sustainable practices and elevate incomes within the community, thus contributing to the overall development of the meat and poultry sector.

The Dr. David Whiston Leadership Award, offered by the ADA Foundation, aims to support emerging leaders in oral health. This award grants $5,000 to individuals demonstrating commitment to enhancing access to dental education and employment opportunities. Eligible applicants include dental students, early-career dentists, and those under 40. Selection criteria focus on leadership potential and contributions to the profession, emphasizing community engagement and public health advancement. Visit ADAF.org for application details.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, administered by the City of Naperville, Illinois, supports affordable housing, public services, and economic development for low- and moderate-income residents. With a focus on community needs, the program utilizes federal funding to address pressing local challenges. It promotes job creation and offers financial assistance to subrecipients. Annual meetings are held to align funding priorities, ensuring an effective response to community demands and enhancing quality of life for residents.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Mission

The Fish Family Foundation of Maine is a faith based charitable organization located in Bangor, Maine. Founded in 2007, our mission is to provide resources for many initiatives including, but not limited to, missions, education scholarships, ministries, medical research, and employment creation. The Fish Family Foundation of Maine is primarily funded by the family. However, contributions from like minded individuals and organizations is appreciated. The Fish Family Foundation of Maine has a balanced strategy of making funds available for immediate needs, while also investing to build a perpetual earning endowment ensuring the Foundation's successful future.

Missions:

We support needs of missionary organizations including sponsorships for young people who wish to attend youth group sponsored mission trips. We ordinarily make one time contributions but on occasion have made up to a three year commitment. 

Education/Scholarships:

The Foundation makes scholarships available to Colleges, Universities, and other Schools for student enrollment and expenses. We also consider new construction, existing renovation, equipment, and support material contributions.

Independent Churches and Ministries:

We accept a wide variety of requests, including, but not limited to: materials, equipment, new construction, renovations, programs, and services. 

Medical Research:

We support medical research opportunities close to our hearts and organizations that our family and friends have experienced. 

Job Creation:

We Support organizations that fund entrepreneurs in impoverished areas to start small businesses providing services and employment to the community.

Requests are considered by the trustees the first week of each month. Foundation payments are made by paper check in US dollars and are reported to the appropriate tax agencies. While we certainly wish that we could contribute to all the applications that meet our funding criteria, there are times when when available funding is limited and we are not able to contribute to some very worthy causes. If we are not in a position to help in the timeline requested, we will keep the information on file for possible consideration in the future. 

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Seabury Foundation's Community Grants in Chicago support 501(c)(3) organizations working in education, arts, lifelong learning, environmental sustainability, and wellness. Established in 1947, the foundation aims to address societal challenges through diverse grant programs. Organizations can apply for operating or project support with fixed award amounts based on their size. Notably, grants do not fund religious activities, political campaigns, or lobbying efforts, ensuring a focus on community enrichment.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on job creation, workforce development, and economic development in Illinois and other Old National Bank footprint counties can seek approximately US $15,000 to support community impact programs. Grants from Old National Bank help expand employment opportunities, affordable housing, financial empowerment, and small business support, especially for underrepresented and low- to moderate-income communities.