Best Youth Sports Grants in Illinois

The Senior Health Assistance Program - BAA Reimbursement in Illinois utilizes Tobacco Settlement Recovery Funds and federal grants to provide educational outreach and enrollment assistance for Medicare Part D, Social Security's Extra Help, and other senior benefits. It aims to assist eligible applicants, including Area Agencies on Aging, with application processes for transit rides and license plate discounts, ensuring seniors receive vital support for their needs.

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.

The Norfolk Southern Trades on Track SkillPointe Scholarship offers $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing trades education related to the rail industry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and focused on railway-related trades. With over 1,000 scholarships funded and a mission to close the skills gap, this initiative empowers individuals towards high-demand careers without requiring a four-year degree, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.

FNBO's Community Sponsorships provide vital financial support to nonprofit organizations and community events that enhance the well-being of our communities. By focusing on affordable housing, entrepreneurship, education, environmental sustainability, access to arts and culture, community cohesion, and health, FNBO aims to create impactful partnerships. Monthly reviews of sponsorship requests ensure timely decision-making, emphasizing FNBO's commitment to fostering community development and empowering historically underrepresented populations.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The NRA Foundation provides funding for charitable purposes as defined under IRS section 501(c)(3). Eligible organizations include government entities and IRS-recognized nonprofits. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission, which promotes firearms safety, education, and research. Ineligible organizations include labor unions and private businesses. The Foundation aims to support programs that enhance public benefit, particularly in the shooting sports and related educational activities.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant Program aims to foster student involvement in creating and maintaining wildlife habitats. Projects can include establishing pollinator gardens or enhancing schoolyard habitats with native plants. Eligible applicants include educators and youth leaders in Illinois, with funding up to $2,000 available on a reimbursement basis. The program promotes ecological education and sustainability, requiring a commitment to maintain the project for at least five years, enhancing both educational and environmental values.

Perkins Grant

The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) became effective on July 1, 2019. This Act reauthorizes the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (Perkins IV). Perkins V is largely based on the structure and content of Perkins IV and remains the most important piece of legislation affecting career and technical education (CTE) in Illinois. The purpose of the law is to develop more fully the academic knowledge and technical and employability skills of secondary and postsecondary education students who elect to enroll in CTE programs and programs of study. Perkins V facilitates this by placing a greater emphasis on the following areas:

• Local flexibility
• Comprehensive stakeholder engagement and collaborative planning
• Innovation
• Accountability
• Alignment with other education and workforce programs

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) VAWA – Culturally Specific 2026 NOFO # 1744-0618

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority is requesting proposals for NOFO # 1744-0618, VAWA Culturally Specific grants. A total of $825,000 in funding in Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is available through this solicitation for use over a period of 12 months.

The Culturally Specific Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will support the development, enhancement, and expansion of culturally specific victim services. This funding opportunity supports efforts to raise public awareness of victim services, particularly for culturally specific communities. The goal of the Culturally Specific Program is to establish, maintain, and expand sustainable, culturally appropriate services that address the unique needs and challenges of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking from culturally specific communities.

This funding opportunity addresses an important need and service gap identified in Illinois: culturally specific services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking.

401 Suicide Prevention Call Center EnhancementThe Department of Human Services Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is seeking to fund the capacity expansion of its Suicide and Crisis Lifelines. Entities applying are expected to answer calls that are geo-routed by county and must be able to respond to text and chat interactions that are routed statewide.

This grant is a performance-based grant. Applicants are expected to demonstrate past performance operating a Suicide and Crisis Lifeline center. For applicants without Lifeline call center experience, proposals must demonstrate the ability to meet the expectations outlined in this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).Funding Purpose: The general purpose of this program's funding is to Prioritize equitable, efficient, reliable and timely access across call, chat and text for persons experiencing a behavioral health or other crisis. To expand contact center capacity to response to calls, chats and texts in Illinois.

Community Foundation of the Quincy Area

My Community Foundation (also known as The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri) is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving quality of life in the communities it serves by connecting compassionate donors with meaningful causes. The foundation works with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofit partners to gather charitable contributions, grow those funds through professional investment strategies, and grant the earnings in ways that address local needs now and into the future. It builds and manages permanent endowments tailored to donors’ goals, ensuring their philanthropic visions—whether honoring a loved one, establishing a legacy, or supporting community needs—are realized. Serving a 12-county region across West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri, the foundation acts as a steward of charitable assets, helping donors make a lasting impact through customized giving opportunities, community grants, and strategic support for nonprofit organizations.

Delford M. & Portia K. Richter Agriculture Scholarship

Delford M. & Portia K. Richter Agriculture Scholarship provides financial support to students pursuing education in agriculture-related fields. Selection is based on academic achievement and promise, demonstrated financial need, the likelihood that the recipient will return to Pike County or Calhoun County to engage in farming, the applicant’s ability to successfully complete their chosen program, and how well the educational program aligns with the applicant’s ongoing course of study. Awards are made annually in the spring.

Childhood Cancer Research

The grant purpose is to fund one awardee or a research project conducted by Illinois researchers on childhood cancer. The grant award must be used to research childhood cancers or expand current childhood cancer research that must be completed by June 30, 2027. Topics may include, but are not limited to, epidemiology, etiology, pathology, social or economic impacts, in-home care, and psychosocial issues. This is a one-year grant award.

Partners for Conservation - Illinois Soil and Water Conservation District Grants (FY26)

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (the “Department” or “IDOA”) is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to provide grants to cover ordinary and contingent administrative expenses under the Soil and Water Conservation Districts program per the Soil and Water Conservation Districts Act (70 ILCS 405) and Partners for Planning and Conservation 30 ILCS 105/6z-32) Sec. 6z-32.

The Partners for Conservation Program is a long-term, state-supported initiative to protect natural resources and enhance outdoor recreational opportunities in Illinois. Several state agencies share responsibility for administering the Partners for Conservation Fund. The Illinois Department of Agriculture oversees the program's agriculture-related components. Under the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the program implements strategies for maintaining the viability of Illinois' soil and water resources. Soil and Water Conservation Districts assist landowners in natural resource management by providing technical assistance in such areas as soil conservation, water quality protection, wetlands management, flood control, soil erosion control at urban construction sites, stream bank stabilization, recycling, soil interpretation, land use and site suitability, and conservation education.

Local County Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Illinois that provide natural resource management technical assistance to landowners in such areas as soil conservation, water quality protection, wetlands management, flood control, soil erosion, stream bank stabilization, recycling, soil interpretation, land use and site suitability, and conservation education are eligible to apply.

Awards will be made to applicants meeting all eligibility criteria. Applications will be accepted until April 15, 2026. District funding will be awarded on a competitive basis and determined on base operations support and technical training level of District staff according to completion of planner level certification and technical supplemental support. Funding is also established to cover the cost of health insurance. Awards will range from $39,000 to $500,000. The Illinois Department of Agriculture anticipates distributing this amount across 98 awards.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.

Manufacturing Training Academies

Program Description

The Manufacturing Training Academies Grant Program will provide capital grants to establish advanced workforce training facilities at downstate Illinois community colleges (defined as community college districts located outside Cook and the collar counties). The workforce training to be subsequently provided will foster development in manufacturing operations aligned with priority industries identified in the Illinois Economic Growth Plan. Priority industries relevant to this opportunity include:

• Life Sciences;
• Quantum Computing, AI, and Microelectronics;
• Clean Energy Production and Manufacturing;
• Advanced Manufacturing; and
• Next Generation Agriculture, Ag Tech and Food Processing.

These capital grants may fund the construction of facilities and purchases of durable equipment needed to establish manufacturing training academies. Specialized manufacturing training academies will foster development of priority industries, greater opportunities in high-wage careers, increased specialization, and increased industry support and collaboration in manufacturing workforce training. 

Please note that all applications are required to address both objectives.

• Objective 1: Development and Implementation of CBE programming
  • The grant’s primary objective is focused on the implementation, evaluation, and expansion of the EV competency-based education (CBE) framework.
  • Programs span the EV Technology occupational continuum from development and production to maintenance and body work for Electric Vehicles, as well as installation and maintenance of critical infrastructure, and are listed in Section D of the attached PDF..
• Objective 2: Wraparound Student Supports
  • This objective focuses on colleges designing or implementing programs with a student-centered approach as they create or implement curriculum.
  • A strong student support model includes effective strategies for recruitment, retention, and comprehensive services that help students succeed.
  • Uses of funds can include, but are not limited to:
    • Investments in academic advising and career guidance
    • Supplemental instruction
    • Wraparound support services and barrier reduction (academic and non-academic)
    • Community needs assessments
    • Partnering with community-based organizations to braid barrier reduction funding

The Illinois Small Business Development Centers, operated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), provide essential support to small businesses and entrepreneurs in Illinois. This initiative focuses on delivering professional, individualized advising and technical assistance, helping businesses access capital, enhance operations, and foster innovation. By nurturing a conducive environment for growth and development, the program aims to strengthen Illinois’ economy and ensure it remains a top choice for business endeavors.

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 AW Environmental Grant Program, backed by American Water Works Company, Inc., aims to support community-driven projects focused on water conservation and the protection of vital water resources. Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $15 million in innovative initiatives that enhance access to clean water and promote responsible water usage in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

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 CRSS Success Program, managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services, aims to enhance the behavioral health workforce by providing comprehensive recovery support training and practical experience for individuals seeking Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credentials. This initiative addresses systemic inequities while promoting inclusivity across diverse demographics, ensuring that those with lived experiences in mental health and substance use recovery have the support needed to succeed in their roles.

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 Norfolk Southern In-Kind Donation Grant supports organizations seeking physical donations of materials that align with their focus areas, including safety, sustainability, workforce development, and thriving communities. This grant is available year-round, with no application deadline. Recipients must be located within Norfolk Southern territory and are encouraged to apply for resources that will enhance their community projects and initiatives, fostering growth and resilience.

The Housing First Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) initiative by the Illinois Department of Human Services aims to enhance access to housing for individuals facing serious mental health challenges. It emphasizes equity, diversity, and inclusion while addressing systemic inequities. The program mandates prequalification for applicants and requires a risk assessment prior to grant award execution. This initiative not only seeks to provide essential housing support but also strives to operationalize equity and foster a culture of inclusivity across all demographics.

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 Welcoming Center provides essential services to immigrants, refugees, and Limited English Proficient populations. Established by the Illinois Department of Human Services, it focuses on comprehensive case management and community education to enhance service delivery. This one-stop-shop model aims to empower organizations and uplift communities striving for economic independence and self-sufficiency. With a commitment to capacity building, the program addresses the unique challenges faced by these groups, ensuring they receive the support they need.