We invest our resources to build strong communities by strengthening education, protecting the natural environment, and promoting economic vitality. We look at systemic approaches that build networks, bring in new partners, improve coordination, adapt to changing circumstances, and build toward solutions at scale. The questions at right will help you find the best fit for your organization.

Entities that are not 501(c)(3) public charities are not eligible to apply.

Our Elgin Grantworks specifically supports organizations working in Elgin; Elgin-based organizations can also apply under our other grantmaking programs.

Our Core Program and Vital Lands Illinois support organizations in Illinois.  Core grantmaking supports work on education, economic development and the environment that has an impact statewide or regionally in the Chicago area; it also supports place-based work in Boone, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Will, and Winnebago Counties.

We focus our funding in Illinois. 

Our Core Program supports work at the systemic level (i.e., changing laws, policies and allocation of resources) to promote thriving Illinois communities. Vital Lands Illinois supports land acquisition and preservation, with an overall goal of creating a statewide, connected system of protected natural lands and water.

Our focus is on supporting systemic work that promises broad improvements.

Our Core Program supports:
Education: strengthening public policies, improving training, effectiveness and development of teachers/staff/administrators, and implementing effective education and management practices, with a goal of promoting equal access to a high-quality education that leads to excellent student outcomes
Natural resources: good land use, land protection, and water protection practices; development and implementation of ecosystem protection and management plans; improved air and water quality.
Economic development: policies and practices that stimulate state and regional economies by linking education to employment preparedness; moving low-wage earners along career pathways to jobs with higher responsibilities, better wages and good benefits; expanding housing options available near public transportation and jobs; and implementing regional growth and transportation strategies that promote economic vitality and environmental health.
 
Vital Lands Illinois supports acquisition and preservation of irreplaceable natural lands.

Our funding focuses on these three areas.

Our Core Program gives highest priority to efforts that focus on long-term solutions, are multidisciplinary and collaborative, effectively address barriers of race and class, promote civic engagement, and attract additional investment. Under Vital Lands Illinois, preference is given to projects that include public engagement, significant partnerships, and funding from a variety of sources.

We give top priority to work that engages others through partnerships and collaboration.