The THRIVES Grant from the Illinois Board of Higher Education funds research-driven, campus-wide strategies to address student basic-needs insecurity and promote equity in Illinois higher education.
Funder: Illinois Board of Higher Education
Due Dates: October 19, 2026
Funding Amounts: Typical award: ~$145,000 for a grant period ending June 30, 2027; actual amount depends on proposal scope.
Summary: Supports Illinois higher education institutions in addressing students' basic-needs insecurity to promote equity and student success.
Key Information: Only Illinois public and eligible independent, non-profit 4-year institutions may apply.
The Illinois Board of Higher Education's THRIVES grant aims to help public and eligible independent, non-profit four-year colleges and universities in Illinois address basic-needs insecurity among undergraduate students. The grant supports holistic, cross-campus initiatives that tackle challenges such as food and housing insecurity, with a focus on closing equity gaps and improving student retention and completion. Building on prior efforts like the Ending Student Housing Insecurity (ESHI) grant, THRIVES aligns with the state's strategic plan, A Thriving Illinois, and prioritizes support for historically underrepresented student populations.