Community Foundation Granting Opportunities
Since its inception in 1972, the Community Foundation’s assets have grown from $1,300 to nearly $27 million. This growth in well-managed endowed funds and other assets, along with administering grant dollars on behalf of the Marajen Stevick Foundation and in cooperation with the Lumpkin Foundation, has enabled us to make $1 million distributions annually for several years to nonprofit organizations in east central Illinois.
As the size of our available granting dollars has grown, our granting strategy has evolved to reflect our commitment to using our donors’ dollars wisely to make sustainable differences in our area. We believe that the combination of grants we offer serve as tools that will yield measurable and lasting results from our investment in impact.
If you have received a grant and need to complete a grant report, please visit this link to login to your account.
Annual Community Commitment Grants
Endowed funds from donors who leave a legacy for the future are the source of ongoing funding for this annual grant application cycle. Applications and guidelines are available on August 1, and completed applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm, August 31. CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION.
2023 grant recipients, Click here.
2022 grant recipients, Click here.
2021 grant recipients, Click here.
Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants
CFECI awarded $50,000 in grants in 2024 to strengthen the nonprofit sector as part of its vision of raising the quality of life throughout the region it serves.
This grant program focuses on projects that improve capacity in an identified area of organizational operations, including (but not limited to): communications; data management; diversity, equity and inclusion; financial management; fundraising; governance; leadership; mission and strategy; program delivery; and program evaluation. Grant applications will be accepted starting May 1 and completed applications must be submitted by 11:59pm, May 31, 2024. CLICK HERE to see guidelines and requirements
2024 grant recipients, Click here.
2022 grant recipients, Click here.
Program Related Investments
Intended to bridge the gap between state funding and organizational expenses and other exceptional expenses, nonprofit organizations in east central Illinois are encouraged to consider this option. Application materials are available below.
Advance Memorandum.doc
Loan Agreement.doc
Promissory Note.doc