Application Process

Impact100 Chicago awards grants to nonprofits in our communities in the focus areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Family, Health & Wellness, and Environment. Applicants may apply for grant funding of at least $100,000 in a focus area that supports their mission, programs, or services. Applying for a grant starts with a Letter of Inquiry. You must read and comply with our eligibility criteria before proceeding.

Important Dates
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Focus Areas

Arts & Culture

Cultural programs, participation in the arts, arts education

Education

Educational opportunities for children and/or adults, especially those that address lingering educational disparities affecting our communities

Family

Strengthening and enhancing the lives of children and families, including seniors

Health & Wellness

Improvement of people’s mental and/or physical well-being.

Environment

Conservation and preservation of natural resources; environmental justice; parks and recreation; agricultural sustainability; environmental education and climate action.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Defined as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
  • Operate and be headquartered in the greater Chicagoland area, outside the boundaries of the city of Chicago. Included counties are: Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will County in the State of Illinois.
  • Be in operation as a 501(c)(3) public charity for a minimum of 36 months prior to applying for the grant.
Grant FAQs
  • Can we submit a proposal for more or less than the full $100,000 Impact Grant amount?
  • We are a national organization but have a local office providing services in the suburban Chicago area. Can we receive funding from Impact 100 Chicago for our suburban Chicago operations?
  • Our project could be submitted under more than one of the focus area descriptions. Can you suggest which one may give us the greatest advantage?