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.
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 to see guidelines and requirements.
2022 grant recipients, Click here.
2021 grant recipients, Click here.
2020 grant recipients, Click here.
Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants
In celebration of its 50th anniversary, CFECI awarded $50,000 in grants to strengthen the nonprofit sector as part of its vision of raising the quality of life throughout the region it serves.
This grant program focused 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. Link to the application will appear when granting cycle is open (anticipated in spring 2024). CLICK HERE to see guidelines and requirements
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