As a leader in Chicago’s charitable community, the Trust’s expert staff is well-versed in the needs of Chicago’s residents and is dedicated to applying that knowledge to a grant-making process that is straightforward and fair.
The application process for organizations seeking Trust funding is handled online and begins with an organizational profile and a Letter of Inquiry (LOI). Organizations that submit an LOI will be notified when it is received. From these LOIs, some organizations will be asked to submit full proposals.
• Please begin your inquiry process at least 48 hours before your deadline, so that you have time to complete all requirements.
• The online process will guide you through requesting a username and password for our application management system. Usernames and passwords will only be e-mailed to you during business hours. If your request is received during evening or weekend hours, you will not receive your username and password until the next business day.
• Submissions must be received before midnight on the deadline date. Letters received after that time will not be considered.
• The online application process applies only to Trust competitive grants. Please click here if you are seeking information about Management and Organizational Development (MOD) grants or initiative and affiliate grants instead.
• What the Trust will not fund. The Trust will not make discretionary grants for:
- Scholarships
- Individuals
- Religious proselytizing
- The sole purpose of writing, publishing, producing or distributing audio, visual or printed material
- The sole purpose of conducting conferences, festivals, exhibitions or meetings
- Reducing operating deficits or liquidating existing debt
Exceptions to the above guidelines are made only for those donor gifts that are given with explicit instructions and/or restrictions.
Click the program area link below where you are seeking funding. Read the program's current funding priorities, to determine whether your organization qualifies for funding. The five program areas are:
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