Best Lake County Grants for Nonprofits in Illinois

Service Club of Chicago

The Service Club of Chicago is a charitable organization of women that has continually served the charitable needs of Chicago and its surrounding communities since 1890. Our mission is to award grants to Chicagoland’s 501(c)(3) organizations that will expand their facilities, improve their equipment and initiate new programs, thereby uplifting the community as a whole.

The Service Club of Chicago Grant Awards 

• Applications for grant awards shall be limited to non-recurring expenses not otherwise covered in the agency’s normal operating budget.

• All applicants must provide written evidence of financial stability, documentation of their own non-profit status issued by the State of Illinois, and the latest, most current 990 filing with the IRS. All applicants must provide 501(C)(3) tax-exempt status, have been in operation no less than three years, and provide financial statements as required by the Internal Revenue Service.

• The application package must include at least two bids for each item requested (exceptions may apply). The Service Club of Chicago will disburse grant awards directly to the vendor and not to the agency; no cash awards are given.

• Grant Recipients from the preceding year are not eligible to apply for the following 3 consecutive calendar years. For example, for the upcoming 2026 grant cycle, only agencies granted in 2023 and earlier can be considered. However, if you were denied in the preceding three-year period, you may apply in the current year.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Priority Area Grants

The Lake County Community Foundation (LCCF) is relaunching its Capacity Building priority area for Spring 2026 to support nonprofits in strengthening their internal operations and organizational effectiveness. This funding is designed to enhance nonprofit sustainability, efficiency, and long-term growth so organizations are better equipped to serve the community. Capacity Building grants support one-time organizational costs and expenses; recurring salaries, fees, or ongoing operational costs are not eligible. Organizations that receive a Capacity Building grant may still apply for and receive funding under LCCF’s Growing Communities priority area, as participation in one does not preclude funding from the other.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Early Childhood Education Priority Area Grants

The Lake County Early Childhood Education Fund provides grant support to organizations serving children from prenatal through age five in Lake County. Established in 2010, this restricted fund is dedicated to strengthening and expanding early childhood education opportunities across the county. There is no letter of inquiry requirement; eligible organizations are invited to apply directly. Funding priority is given to projects that introduce new and innovative approaches to early childhood education, reduce barriers to access for Lake County residents, and address otherwise unmet needs, particularly in areas where the applicant is the sole service provider.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Growing Communities Priority Area

Two-Year Grants support nonprofit organizations in achieving strategic growth, program stability, and long-term planning by providing greater financial predictability and strengthening organizational capacity for deeper community impact. Funding prioritizes initiatives that promote equitable access in Lake County to affordable nutritious food, comprehensive health care including mental health services, safe and affordable housing, education and workforce opportunities, and immigration and legal support services. Preference is given to grassroots, community-based organizations that address barriers to accessing essential services and benefits, and to organizations serving unmet basic needs as the sole provider in their area.

The Mercyhealth Ethnic Minority Nursing Scholarship offers three $2,000 scholarships to ethnic minority individuals pursuing a nursing degree in northern Illinois. Applicants must be fluent in Spanish and maintain a 3.0 GPA. Selection is based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and financial need. This initiative, funded by the Mercyhealth Volunteer Association, aims to support diversity in nursing and improve healthcare access within the community.

ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.

The Flowers for Dreams Foundation Grant prioritizes organizations committed to mental health and community care initiatives for vulnerable populations. With a mission to fund local charities, the foundation has donated over $1.5 million to date. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000, with applications accepted year-round. In 2025, the foundation emphasizes support for mental health services, ensuring that funds are used for impactful community care. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and operate within the designated service area.

The AIS Grants to Great Lakes States (CAFWS-179) program offers crucial technical and financial support for the protection and restoration of the Great Lakes ecosystem. It focuses on priority actions to identify, conserve, and restore habitats and species across both public and private lands within the Great Lakes Basin. This initiative aims to ensure the sustainability of these vital natural resources for future generations.

Dennis Taylor Scholarship Foundation

The foundation was established to confer scholarships on students majoring in Performing Arts (Theatre, Dance, Vocal and Instrumental Music) at the College/University level as well as grants for performing arts classes, seminars, and related expenses, or for costs associated with college/university applications and auditions for students of the Performing Arts as determined by the Board of Directors. Scholarships are available to applicants residing in the Northern Illinois area. College/University Scholarships are expected to be $500-$1000 and Performing Arts grants will be in the order of $300. Recipients will audition and be selected on a merit basis by the Board of Directors. The Scholarship Foundation has been set up in memory of Dennis Taylor who served as a dancer, choreographer, costumer and wig designer in the western suburbs for more than five decades.

Dennis Taylor Scholarship Foundation: Performing Arts Grant

Grant Applications are accepted at any time of year, preferable 6-8 weeks prior to the performing arts class, seminar, workshop, or similar event.

Performing arts students may request a grant to cover expenses associated with college/university applications or auditions.

The Habitat Protection and Restoration grant by the Great Lakes Fisheries Trust aims to fund projects that protect and restore vital fish habitats in the Great Lakes region. Priorities include enhancing fish passage, supporting sustainable reproduction, and utilizing decision-support tools for project identification. Eligible applicants include non-profits and governmental organizations, focusing on projects within the Lake Michigan basin. This grant emphasizes community support and long-term management, ensuring impactful conservation efforts.

The Cultivate: Leadership Grant Program empowers women and nonbinary leaders of color in Chicago by enhancing their skills in social, economic, and racial justice. Since 2013, it has fostered collaboration among diverse leaders, promoting gender and racial equity through intentional developmental support. Participants receive mentorship and coaching to strengthen their professional capabilities while building a connected community. This initiative is a partnership among significant local foundations, focusing on sustainability and growth within organizations led by women of color.

The Great Lakes Fisheries Trust offers grants for ecological and biological research aimed at enhancing ecosystem health and sustainable fish populations. These grants support competitive fisheries research, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and stakeholder value. The next funding cycle will open with a request for proposals in late 2026 for the 2027 program year, promoting innovative research and capacity-building efforts within the fisheries sector.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial supports farmers by enhancing their marketing and technology capabilities. Grants can be utilized for branding, website creation, and payment technologies, as well as essential equipment like scales and tents. This initiative aims to promote direct consumer engagement and strengthen local food systems, ensuring fresh produce accessibility while fostering economic growth in rural communities. Eligible applicants must be Compeer clients actively participating in verified farmers markets.

Compeer Financial's Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program aims to enhance collaboration among rural fire, rescue, and ambulance departments by providing funding for specialized equipment. Grants of up to $10,000 support projects that improve emergency response capabilities, encouraging teamwork among departments serving adjacent jurisdictions. Eligible applicants must operate within Compeer's 144-county territory and demonstrate a clear plan for equipment use. This initiative underscores the importance of community cooperation in ensuring effective emergency services in rural areas.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Chicago Commitment: Vital Communities Grant aims to promote racial equity and inclusivity within Chicago by supporting diverse initiatives and organizations. This grant focuses on community-driven development, addressing historical disparities and fostering economic growth through place-based strategies. It encourages community engagement in planning to mitigate the risk of displacement while enhancing access to arts and culture. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to equitable development and have a track record of community involvement.

Nicor Gas offers the Pillar Grants program to support organizations focused on Basic Human Needs and Energy Assistance. These grants, capped at $5,000, aim to address immediate needs such as food, shelter, and clothing for individuals within Nicor Gas' service area. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations that contribute to community stability and wellness, ensuring critical support for those facing challenges.

Nicor Gas offers Pillar Grants focused on education to support secondary and post-secondary opportunities, including technical and vocational programs. These grants aim to enhance workforce development by fostering partnerships that create awareness of careers in energy and promote diversity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities serving Nicor Gas’ service area, and grants may not exceed $5,000. Applications are encouraged from those aligning with these educational initiatives.

The Nicor Gas Pillar Grants for Environmental Stewardship aim to support initiatives that enhance community engagement in conservation and sustainable practices. Grants up to $5,000 are available for 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on clean air, environmental protection, and green space preservation. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply, particularly those that engage the public in environmental stewardship projects within Nicor Gas’ service area.

Nicor Gas offers Pillar Grants for Community Enrichment, focusing on enhancing the vitality and livability of neighborhoods within its service area. Grants support nonprofit organizations engaged in cultural, community service, and stabilization efforts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that contribute to mental health, social services, and civic development. Funding is capped at $5,000, and applications are encouraged from those addressing significant community needs.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Alphawood Foundation, a private grant-making organization based in Chicago, focuses on supporting initiatives that promote equity, justice, and human rights. They award grants to non-profits in areas such as arts education, LGBTQ+ health and rights, and community empowerment, particularly for marginalized groups. Their funding emphasizes unrestricted operational support, prioritizing organizations aligned with their mission and that primarily serve the Chicago metropolitan area and Northwest Indiana.

The Nicor Gas: Critical Needs Fund, managed by Northern Illinois Community Initiatives, provides essential grants to nonprofit organizations for emergency situations impacting service delivery. Focused on racial equity, the fund aims to support organizations across the Nicor service area, enabling them to address critical needs swiftly, ideally within 30 days. Applicants must demonstrate their 501(c)(3) status and submit detailed project plans, budgets, and impact reports to ensure compliance and responsible fund usage.

Radio Flyer is committed to enhancing the lives of children through charitable giving and community support. Their philanthropic efforts focus on 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that promote outdoor play and well-being for children. Key initiatives include partnerships with national charities and local organizations, such as building playgrounds for underprivileged kids. Ineligible requests include those from individuals, political groups, and organizations outside the contiguous United States. This ensures that their contributions create lasting positive impacts.