Apply for a Grant

We fund more than just programs.

4 women accepting a CFNIL Grant

We invest in your organization's capacity to do good.

In 2025 alone, we granted more than $1.7 million to local organizations working to support the communities of northern Illinois. 

If you have questions at any point in the grant application process, reach out to Grants Officer Lisa DeLang or call (779) 210-8210.

Start Your Application

  • Application status: CLOSED

  • Community Grants Program

    Purpose:
    Supporting the current and future needs of the people of northern Illinois.
    Specifications:
    Open to nonprofits providing charitable services to Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties in northern Illinois.
    Applications Open:
    June 25, 2026
    Applications Close:
    August 20, 2026
    See More about Community Grants Program

    Application status: CLOSED

  • Community Opportunities

    Purpose:
    To support unexpected opportunities and emergency needs of organizations in northern Illinois.
    Specifications:
    501(c)(3) nonprofits located in and/or serving Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties.
    Application cycle:
    The grant has a rolling application cycle.
    See More about Community Opportunities

    Application status: OPEN

  • DKG Mini Grant Program

    Purpose:
    Supporting projects that improve or enhance the quality of education.
    Specifications:
    Open to Early Childhood through grade 12 educators currently teaching in Boone or Winnebago counties.
    Applications Open:
    November 24, 2025
    Applications Close:
    January 19, 2026
    See More about DKG Mini Grant Program

    Application status: CLOSED

  • In Youth We Trust Grants

    Purpose:
    Supporting youth-led, youth-serving projects in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties.
    Specifications:
    Projects, programs, and initiatives led by youth and serving youth in northern Illinois. Youth complete the application.
    Applications Open:
    October 31, 2026
    Applications Close:
    December 4, 2026
    See More about In Youth We Trust Grants

    Application status: CLOSED

  • Application status: CLOSED

  • Neighborhood Grants Program

    Purpose:
    2026 funds have been depleted and will renew in 2027. Promote resident participation and leadership while encouraging and supporting neighborhood groups that work to preserve and improve quality of life at the local level.
    Specifications:
    Open to organized neighborhood groups carrying out a charitable purpose for the common good.
    Applications Open:
    March 1, 2027
    Applications Close:
    April 1, 2027
    See More about Neighborhood Grants Program

    Application status: CLOSED

Questions About Applying for a Grant?

Review our resources, including step-by-step instructions, or contact us.