Best Youth Sports Grants in Illinois

The Redeploy Illinois - Planning Grant is designed to provide funding to counties and groups of counties, including areas in Cook County, to implement community-based sanctions and treatment alternatives for juvenile offenders. This initiative aims to reduce youth incarceration by establishing local services that cater to those under juvenile court jurisdiction. Eligible funding amounts range from $5,000 to $25,000 per county, depending on case analysis and participation.

The FY 2025 After School Programs grant from the Illinois State Board of Education aims to support non-school districts in establishing after-school programs. These programs are designed to enhance academic achievement, promote positive behaviors, and provide safe environments for enrichment activities. By fostering partnerships among public, private, and philanthropic entities, the grant seeks to deliver durable support services to students facing challenges, ultimately benefiting working families and communities.

The Illinois Racing Board Charity Grant provides essential Wellness Services to individuals working or residing at Illinois' pari-mutuel race tracks. With over $26 million allocated over 30 years, the program ensures access to medical, dental, and counseling services. For 2024, approximately $767,193 is available for grants, supporting non-profit organizations that can demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of backstretch residents. Eligible applicants must meet specific requirements, including prior IRS approval and a solid project plan.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Midwest Region Student Travel Award

Each year, CSA travel funding in an amount up to $750 is available for a Midwest Region Student Member to present at the National Symposium of The Costume Society of America. Awards may be distributed among multiple student members.

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.

The CHS Foundation supports initiatives that benefit the agriculture industry, focusing on 501c3 organizations within specific states. Their funding is aimed at empowering cooperative growth and sustainable practices. Local projects may also be eligible through the CHS Seeds for Stewardship program. However, funding is not available for individuals, sports teams, or religious groups, ensuring that the support remains directed towards community and cooperative development.

The Organizational Capacity Building (OCB) Flexible Fund Grants by the Retirement Research Foundation aim to enhance the capacity of Illinois nonprofit organizations serving older adults. These grants, up to $5,000, support diverse initiatives such as board development and strategic planning. With a simplified application process and rolling deadlines, OCB Flex grants facilitate quick funding decisions, making them ideal for short-term projects. Emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, these grants prioritize marginalized populations, ensuring impactful community engagement.

The CHS Foundation offers funding for innovative projects in precision agriculture and data analytics. This annual grant program supports colleges and universities focusing on enhancing agronomy and ag mechanics curriculum. Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 31, with priority given to initiatives that foster hands-on learning and technology development. Eligible projects should emphasize data analysis and improve students' understanding of agricultural technology, while adhering to funding guidelines.

The Residential Sharps Collection Program, funded by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, offers $600,000 to local governments for the collection, storage, and disposal of household sharps. Eligible costs include advertising, educational materials, and transportation fees. Each local government can receive up to $35,000 to ensure safe disposal practices, enhancing community health and environmental safety. This initiative aims to facilitate proper sharps disposal and reduce risks associated with improper handling.

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is inviting public community colleges in the State of Illinois to participate in the FY27 College Student Mental Health & Success Initiative Grant by applying for grants, which are GATA exempt. ICCB anticipates funding at least 22 community colleges.  This project is designed to assist and support colleges in implementing, expanding, scaling, and evaluating equitable, evidence-based mental health supports based on Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act, MHEAC, requirements. This initiative prioritizes evaluation of services and the integration of mental health into broader institutional systems and student success strategies. 

The Dr. Ralph and Marian Falk Medical Research Trust – Falk Catalyst Awards support high-risk, high-reward biomedical research with up to $350,000 in funding over one to two years. These awards aim to address critical scientific challenges and enable the translation of innovative research into clinical practices. Projects focus on identifying biological markers, therapeutic targets, and developing interventions to disrupt disease processes, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for patients.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

IDNR Mission Statement

To manage, conserve and protect Illinois' natural, recreational and cultural resources, further the public's understanding and appreciation of those resources, and promote the education, science and public safety of Illinois' natural resources for present and future generations.

Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant

Purpose

Projects must emphasize student/youth involvement with planning, development and maintenance and increase the educational and wildlife habitat values of the site. The applicant must be prepared to maintain and commit resources to the project for at least five years. The project must be implemented on school grounds or another public place (for example, a park or nature center/forest preserve district land). Illinois Conservation Foundation sites and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) sites do not qualify for funding. Admission fees cannot be charged to obtain access to the site. Individual student projects will not be funded.

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant includes three options: Option One; Option Two; and Option Three.

Option Two

Option Two is for all other projects. Habitat projects may include, but not be limited to, the following activities:

• enhance or establish and maintain a schoolyard prairie plot,
• butterfly garden,
• rain garden,
• wetland,
• native tree arboretum,
• nesting platform or watering station;
• design and build a bird feeder or feeding station; or
• construct and install bat roosting boxes.

Vegetable gardens are not eligible for this grant.

This grant will pay for the purchase of simple gardening tools such as child- and adult-sized gloves, spades, shovels, rakes, trowels and hoes. Tool costs shall not account for more than 25% of the total project cost.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

Associated Bank Community Grants focus on enhancing the well-being of communities through charitable donations. Allocating 1% of annual pretax profits, the bank supports programs benefiting low- to moderate-income individuals and families. Philanthropic priorities include affordable housing, small business development, workforce development, sustainability, and racial/social equity. The bank collaborates with nonprofit organizations that align with its values, ensuring meaningful contributions to community growth and improvement.

Inflation Reduction Act Urban & Community Forestry Program

To plan for, establish, manage and protect trees, forests, green spaces and related natural resources in and adjacent to cities and towns. The urban and community forestry program provides ecosystem services, social and economic benefits. It links these benefits to governmental, private and grassroots organizations and resources to improve the quality of life in these cities and towns.

Category Explanation 

It is the mission of the Illinois Division of Forestry Resources to protect, perpetuate, restore, conserve, and manage the forest and related resources of Illinois, both public and private, rural and urban; and to ensure for future generations the greatest economic, scientific, and social benefits that can only be provided through a forest ecological system.

Opportunity Funding

• $5,000,000.00

The Birth Equity Innovation Seed Grants in Illinois aim to support community organizations working to reduce disparities in maternal and infant health. Funding will be available for programs tied to communities most affected by these inequities, facilitating access to essential maternal care services. The Illinois Department of Public Health encourages innovative approaches that establish or maintain programs focused on improving birth equity, particularly for marginalized populations. Grants range from $0 to $1,000,000.

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 Joyce Foundation's Education & Economic Mobility Grants aim to close income and race disparities in college and career success. The foundation prioritizes equitable access to high-quality education, supporting policies for effective educators, high school graduation, and affordable college credentials. Focused on racial equity and economic mobility, it addresses the needs of historically underserved young people in the Great Lakes region and invests in research, policy development, and advocacy to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The MRC/SOT Early Career Toxicologist Award, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes an outstanding Midwest toxicologist with up to 10 years of experience. This prestigious award honors candidates actively contributing to the field or recently retired, showcasing their unique research achievements and teaching proficiency. Winners receive an engraved plaque and an honorarium, celebrating their commitment to advancing toxicology and enhancing human, animal, and environmental health.

About the Illinois Department on Aging

The mission of the Illinois Department on Aging is to serve and advocate for older Illinoisans and their caregivers by administering quality and culturally appropriate programs that promote partnerships and encourage independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Senior Health Assistance Program

Description

Tobacco Settlement Recovery Funds and federal grants funds have been earmarked for the Department to provide educational outreach and enrollment/application assistance on Medicare Part D drug plans, Social Security's Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs, Seniors Free Transit Ride, Persons with Disabilities Free Transit Ride, and the Secretary of State's License Plate Discount Program through the network of Area Agencies on Aging and local service providers. The Area Agencies on Aging have funded approximately 150 Senior Information and Assistance Sites around the state to help older adults and family members learn about and apply for these federal and state public benefits. The Legislative mandate of the Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) is to provide information and assistance to older adults about available pharmaceutical assistance programs.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) offers sponsorships to organizations improving community health and wellness. These sponsorships range from $250 to $5,000, with higher amounts available for community-based health fairs. Organizations must apply at least two months prior to events and can only receive either a grant or sponsorship in a year. BCBSIL prioritizes support for initiatives directly benefiting Illinois residents, ensuring a healthier community for all.

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 Ron Goellner Conservation Fund Award, administered by the Cryptobranchid Interest Group, offers grants up to $2,000 for projects focused on the conservation of giant salamanders. This initiative supports innovative research, field conservation, and educational initiatives that aim to protect these species and their habitats. Open to all applicants, the fund prioritizes projects that demonstrate broad conservation impact and partnerships. Applications are automatically considered for two separate grants of up to $1,000 each.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is launching a Reproductive Healthcare Navigation Program to create a toll-free abortion navigation hotline. This initiative aims to connect patients with appropriate abortion providers in Illinois while offering educational resources and logistical support. The program seeks experienced grantees to maintain relationships with providers, ensure culturally competent services, and promote the hotline effectively through various channels. The goal is to facilitate access to safe abortion care and support for individuals navigating this process.

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