This ISBE grant funds Illinois schools most in need to implement research-based, equitable improvement strategies and build leadership capacity for better student outcomes.
Funder: Illinois State Board of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Full application / Submitting an approvable grant for July 1 start date; projected)
Funding Amounts: Formula-based allocations; typical school-level awards range from ~$36,000–$85,000/year, with larger districts receiving significantly more. Four-year grant term.
Summary: Supports Illinois schools and districts with the greatest need to build leadership capacity and implement evidence-based, equitable improvement practices.
Key Information: This is a forecasted, annually recurring grant; eligibility and allocations are based on school accountability designations.
This competitive formula grant, administered by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), provides funding and capacity-building support to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) serving schools identified as Intensive, Comprehensive, or Targeted under the state's accountability system. The program is designed to help school and district leaders implement effective, research-based school improvement practices with a strong focus on equity, evidence-based strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Funding is intended to supplement state and local resources, enabling schools to identify needs, develop and implement improvement plans, and monitor progress toward ambitious student outcome goals.