| Community Foundation of Northern IL

Support the causes you care about the most.
Through the power of endowment, your gift makes a deep impact -- forever!

Ways to Give

If you’re a nonprofit seeking a grant for your project
or a student looking for educational support,
you’re in the right place.

Grant & Scholarship Opportunities

Donate

Whether you donate to an existing endowment or create your own, be assured that your passion is our purpose.

Ways to Give

Grants

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!

View CFNIL Grant Programs

Scholarships

130+ Unique Scholarships, over $500K in awards, just ONE Application! Application open December 1 - February 1.

View CFNIL Scholarships

News

Check out what's new and coming soon at CFNIL!

Read What's Happening

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 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