In 2012, local organizations came together to hold a Scholarship Fair for the benefit of students (and aspiring students!) in Northern Illinois. The success of that first fair ensured it would become an annual tradition, connecting providers of local scholarships and other types of financial aid resources to people planning to further their education. 

Held annually on the first Tuesday in December, the Community Scholarship Fair provides the opportunity for scholarship seekers and their supporters to meet face-to-face with dozens of local scholarship providers as well as representatives of organizations that serve the needs of youth in our region. Guests may also attend multiple informational seminars. In 2023, nearly 700 people from across the region attended the Fair.

​When it became clear that the impact of COVID-19 would not permit an in-person 2020 Scholarship Fair, the presenting partners made the most of the opportunity and established ScholarshipsNI.com, a one-stop-shop for details about local private scholarships, as well as information about broader financial resources.

The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, Illinois Student Assistance Commission, Rockford Public Library, and Rock Valley College Foundation are pleased to provide this resource to the communities of Northern Illinois and hope it will increase access to resources and information for students, parents, counselors, providers, and people interested in supporting students' aspirations for years to come. 

Visit the Scholarships Northern Illinois website to find information about hundreds of local scholarships and stay up to date with information about the annual Community Scholarship Fair!