Support the causes you care about the most.
Through the power of endowment, your gift makes a deep impact -- forever!
If you’re a nonprofit seeking a grant for your project
or a student looking for educational support,
you’re in the right place.
Whether you donate to an existing endowment or create your own, be assured that your passion is our purpose.
Support for charitable activities that benefit the people and places of northern Illinois. Over $1.7M is distributed each year through the Community Grants Program alone!
130+ Unique Scholarships, over $500K in awards, just ONE Application! Application open December 1 - February 1.
Check out what's new and coming soon at CFNIL!
Getting Ready for Illinois Gives

Illinois Gives: A new state tax credit act

The Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act will take effect January 1, 2025. Learn about this new tax credit available to Illinois taxpayers and how it benefits your tax liability, nonprofits, and the people and places of Illinois!

Learn More and Register for the Webinar

Grants for Teachers: Bates and DKG Mini Grants

Application Open Now: Two Grant Programs for Teachers

The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois administers two grant programs that support teachers with the goal of enhancing and improving the quality of education in our community. The applications for both programs are open now and will remain open until January 13, 2025.

Learn More and Apply

CFNIL Scholarships Main Cycle Application Open Now

Application Open Now: Winter/Main Scholarship Application

December 1st is opening day for CFNIL's Winter/Main Scholarship Application! Over 125 awards may be accessed via ONE application. Apply by February 1, 2025!

Learn More and Apply

2024 CFNIL Community Grants Program awards

2024 CFNIL Community Grants Program Awards Announced

CFNIL is pleased to announce the 2024 Community Grants Program awards: over $1.73M awarded to 88 local nonprofits, supporting programs and projects that benefit the people of Northern Illinois!

Learn About the 2024 Recipients

2024 Excalibur and Excelsior Award Finalists

Announcing the 2024 Excalibur and Excelsior Award Finalists

Meet the 2024 finalists, six individuals and organizations whose exemplary efforts have and continue to make Northern Illinois stronger!

Meet the Finalists

CFNIL Fall Scholarship Cycle

Fall Scholarship Cycle Application Open Now!

Learn more about the three scholarships included in this cycle and how to apply!

Learn More and Apply!