Funder: Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2027 (Application) | August 2027 (School District Pre-Authorization Form)
Funding Amounts: Requests may include indirect costs up to 15% of the requested amount; capital/commodity requests cannot receive multi-year grants
Summary: Supports charitable activities improving quality of life in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties in northern Illinois.
Key Information: Applicants must have at least one year of active public service by December 1 of the application year.
Description
The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) administers Community Grants, its largest and broadest grantmaking program. Supported by endowed legacy gifts, the annual program funds charitable activities benefiting the people and places of Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties. Support includes events, time-limited projects, ongoing programs, equipment and commodity purchases, and minor capital improvements.
Career Pathways and Complementary Education are the strategic priorities, emphasizing post-secondary readiness, workforce development, educational quality, and academically focused enrichment. Remaining funds support six other focus areas covering cultural access, basic needs, vulnerable populations, physical and mental health, sustainable communities, and youth and family development. Health proposals may include research promoting community health and well-being.
