Community Grants Program
The Community Grants Program funds nonprofit-led research and community initiatives in eight focus areas to improve quality of life in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties, Illinois.
Funder: Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Due Dates: June 25, 2026 (Application open) | August 20, 2026 (Submission deadline, 5:00 p.m. CT)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards $2,000–$80,000; most grants $10,000–$40,000; average recent award ~$18,000; ~14-month funding period.
Summary: Supports nonprofit-led charitable activities benefiting Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties across eight focus areas.
Key Information: Two unique applications per organization; multi-year funding suspended; indirect costs up to 15% encouraged.
Description
The Community Grants Program is the flagship annual grantmaking initiative of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL), designed to address the current and future needs of Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties. Grants are awarded to support a wide range of charitable activities across eight focus areas: Arts & Humanities, Basic Needs & Compassionate Support, Career Pathways, Complementary Education, Dignity & Respect, Health, Sustainable Communities, and Youth & Families. The program emphasizes community impact, equity, and alignment with local needs, and is open to eligible organizations seeking to improve quality of life in Northern Illinois.
