[Community Foundation of Central Illinois](https://communityfoundationci.org)

June 10, 2026 (applications due by 5:00 p.m. Central Time)

Up to $5,000 per grant; typically one-year funding.

Supports grassroots, evidence-based, and collaborative projects addressing unmet community needs through innovative local programs.

--- ## Description The 2026 Emerging Philanthropists Fund Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of Central Illinois, is designed to empower organizations with programs that align with the Fund’s grantmaking principles. This opportunity emphasizes support for grassroots, evidence-based, innovative, and collaborative projects that address unmet needs within the central Illinois community. Preference is given to smaller-scale, creative initiatives that demonstrate measurable impact and partnerships. --- ## Due Dates - Application deadline: **June 10, 2026** (by 5:00 p.m. Central Time) All applications must be submitted by the deadline; late or incomplete applications will not be considered. --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award: **Up to $5,000 per grant** - Funding is typically for a one-year period. --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible applicants:** - Organizations with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code - Organizations operating under a fiscal agent that is a 501(c)3 - Churches, schools, or units of government - **Geographic requirement:** Programs must serve individuals within a 50-mile radius of Peoria, Illinois, **excluding Knox and McLean counties** - **Other requirements:** - Organizations must be current on all grant evaluations for prior CFCI grants - Only one application per grant program per year --- ## Application Process - Review the [CFCI Grantmaking Guidelines](https://communityfoundationci.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CFCI-Grant-Guidelines-2025-2026.pdf) before applying. - Applications must be submitted online via the [CFCI Grant Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=cfci). - New applicants must create an account; returning applicants should use existing credentials. - All applications must be signed/approved by both the grant writer and executive-level personnel. - Required materials and forms are specified in the online portal; incomplete applications will not be accepted. For a step-by-step guide on using the portal, see the [GLM Applicant Tutorial](https://support.foundant.com/hc/en-us/articles/4479853059991-GLM-Applicant-Tutorial). --- ## Additional Information - Proposals are reviewed within 30–60 days after submission. - Applicants will be notified in writing regarding the status of their application. - A grant evaluation report is required within one month of program completion. - Failure to submit a complete evaluation may result in ineligibility for future funding for at least two years. --- ## External Links - [CFCI Grant Opportunities Overview](https://communityfoundationci.org/for-grant-seekers/grant-opportunities/) - [Emerging Philanthropists Fund Details](https://communityfoundationci.org/funds/emerging-philanthropists-fund/) - [Apply Online via Grant Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=cfci) - [CFCI Grantmaking Guidelines (PDF)](https://communityfoundationci.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CFCI-Grant-Guidelines-2025-2026.pdf) - [Applicant Tutorial](https://support.foundant.com/hc/en-us/articles/4479853059991-GLM-Applicant-Tutorial) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Role | Email | Phone | Website | |---------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|----------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Amanda Fiske, Director of Grants & Community Initiatives | amanda@communityfoundationci.org | 309-674-8730 | [Contact CFCI](https://communityfoundationci.org/contact/) | | General Inquiries | info@communityfoundationci.org | 309-674-8730 | [CFCI Homepage](https://communityfoundationci.org) |

2026 Emerging Philanthropists Fund Grant

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