Does your work align with one of our giving areas? Start here.
Grant applications are by invitation only. If your work fits into one of our funding areas and is located in the Chicago metro area, please submit a Letter of Inquiry.
Grantmaking
Here are a few examples of our recent grants
Entrepreneurship
Greater Southwest Development Corporation for the GSDC Business Academy
Cancer & Health Rehab
35 Chicago area hospitals and medical centers to create The Supportive Oncology Collaborative
Developmental Disabilities
Clearbrook for Intersect for Ability’s Building Supportive Workplace Cultures training initiative
Average Grant Size
100
Cancer Care
100
Developmental Disabilities
100
Entrepreneurship
How to Apply
The Foundation welcomes potential grantees to review our grantmaking process. This section outlines the necessary steps. Also, please review the Frequently Asked Questions section.
Determine Fit
Research the Foundation’s program areas, prior grants and stated goals to determine if your project is a good fit.
Letter of Inquiry
Submit a Letter of Inquiry containing the requested elements.
Invited Proposal
The Foundation will advise you if a full proposal should be submitted for further review.
Proposals are presented by Foundation staff and approved by the Board at quarterly meetings.
Please note two important eligibility criteria:
1) Tax Exempt Status
Grants are made only to organizations that are certified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as tax exempt, non-profit organizations, 501(c)(3) or 509(a)(1), and that are not private foundations. No grants can be made to individuals.
2) Chicago Metro Area
The Foundation’s primary geographic focus is the Chicago metropolitan area. Only programs within the United States will be considered, which excludes all international programs.