Illinois Immigration Funder Collaborative (IFC)

The Illinois Immigration Funder Collaborative (IFC) is a grantmakers collaborative that awards funds to nonprofit organizations serving immigrants and refugees. IFC funding prioritizes three areas: urgent immediate needs, legal assistance for individuals, and advocacy and organizing that advance immigrant rights and justice.

How IFC Helps Immigrant & Refugee Communities 

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, IFC has so far directed more than $25 million to Illinois immigrant and refugee-serving community organizations. Grantmaking foundations, donor advised funds, and individual givers pool resources to maximize impact. With deep knowledge of issues facing the immigrant community, IFC collectively selects effective organizations with a track record of high-quality, low-cost service and successful public policy advocacy. These organizations have been central to our state’s historic humanitarian welcome of newcomers.

“Through the power of its collective effort, IFC works in partnership with organizations across the state that advance immigrants and refugees by making sustained financial commitments year to year as well as responding to emerging opportunities and challenges. We have been deeply rewarded by the expertise, urgency, and practicality reflected in IFC’s grantmaking.”

Contributor / Donor Advised Fund (DAF) Holder

How IFC Selects Grant Recipient Partners

IFC carefully vets funding requests for sustained support and emergency needs. We review mission and purpose, activities and goals, and financial standing. We support long-established and newer grassroots organizations, so our screening is informed by hallmarks of organizational development at different life stages.

Our goals are to help sustain a vibrant network of organizations through our Core grants fund, and to be responsive to urgent needs with Special Initiative grants for organizations capable of having immediate impact. In addition to providing resources to Chicago’s many immigrant justice organizations, IFC directs dollars throughout Illinois.

IFC works to develop connections characterized by respect and receptiveness with our funding partners and our grant recipient partners.

“You have built trust with us over time. IFC’s processes are not burdensome. You have a comprehensive view of immigration and IFC is funding qualified applicants. You know us and trust us.”

IFC Grant Recipient Partner

If you are interested in getting involved as a funding partner, please contact info@cct.org.