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Search Through Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois in the U.S.

Find the perfect Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois on Instrumentl. 300+ Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois in the United States

300+ grants
$123.4M total
$10K median

300+

Available grants

$123.4M

Total funding amount

$10K

Median grant amount

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Last updated: February 2, 2026. Next update: March 1, 2026.
Rolling deadline

Community Possible Grant Program: Play, Work, & Home Grants

US Bancorp Foundation

Museums & Cultural Institutions Art Education Arts / Culture Access & Participation
Unspecified amount
The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.
Rolling deadline

Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions

Costco Foundation

Youth Services Child Welfare Services Education
Unspecified amount
The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.
Rolling deadline

Creag Foundation Grant

Creag Foundation

Environment Diseases & Conditions Human & Social Services
Unspecified amount
The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

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Rolling deadline

DanPaul Foundation Grants

The Dan Paul Foundation

Environment Youth Development & Leadership Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water
Up to US $15,000
The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.
Rolling deadline

Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Grants

Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation

Education Social Justice / Human Rights Energy
Up to US $300,000
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.
Rolling deadline

Global Impact Cash Grants

Cisco Systems Foundation

Economic Services & Development Entrepreneurship Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid
Up to US $75,000
The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.
Rolling deadline

Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants

State Farm Companies Foundation

Disaster Preparedness Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Firefighting & Fire Prevention
Unspecified amount
State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.
Rolling deadline

Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant

William Randolph Hearst Foundation

STEM / STEAM Education Art Education Artist Training & Development
More than US $100,000
The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.
Rolling deadline

LabCorp Charitable Foundation Grants

Labcorp Charitable Foundation

Education Community Services Health & Medicine
Unspecified amount
The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.
Rolling deadline

PNC Foundation: Foundation Grant

PNC Foundation

Education - Preschool / Early Learning Teacher Development & Training Music Education
Unspecified amount
The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
Rolling deadline

Semnani Family Foundation Grants

Semnani Family Foundation

Homelessness Services Food Access & Hunger Diseases & Conditions
Unspecified amount
The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.
Rolling deadline

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program

Bank Of America Charitable Foundation Inc

Community Development & Revitalization Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Food Access & Hunger
Unspecified amount
The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.
Rolling deadline

Tony Robbins Foundation Grant

Anthony Robbins Foundation (The Tony Robbins Foundation)

Youth Development & Leadership Senior Services Basic Human Needs
Unspecified amount
The Tony Robbins Foundation Grant aims to empower individuals and organizations to improve the lives of marginalized communities, including youth, seniors, and the homeless. By providing financial support to aligned nonprofits, the foundation seeks to create impactful changes globally. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or recognized international entities, with a mission statement that resonates with the foundation's goals. The foundation does not fund personal projects or startups.
Rolling deadline

Wells Fargo Community Giving

Wells Fargo Foundation

Financial Literacy Equitable & Affordable Housing Business Development
Unspecified amount
Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.
Full proposal due Mar 1, 2026

Dr. Scholl Foundation Grants

Dr Scholl Foundation

Education Environment Community Culture & Heritage
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.
Applications due Mar 1, 2026

Cowles Charitable Trust Grant

Cowles Charitable Trust

Social Justice / Human Rights Art & Culture Health & Medicine
Up to US $10,000
The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.
Applications due Mar 27, 2026

J.W. Couch Foundation Grant

Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation

Historic Preservation Environmental Conservation Renewable/Sustainable Energy
More than US $50,000
The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.
Applications due Mar 31, 2026

O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant

O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Inc

Economic Services & Development Homelessness Services Food Access & Hunger
Unspecified amount
The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.
Applications due Apr 30, 2026

Community Ties Giving Program: Local Grants

Union Pacific Foundation

Library Services Museums & Cultural Institutions Community / Public Safety
US $5,000 - US $30,000
The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.
Applications due May 1, 2026

Lawrence Foundation Grant

Lawrence Foundation

Community Services Environmental Conservation Ecology
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.
Applications due May 11, 2026

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation Grant

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation

Museums & Cultural Institutions Performing Arts Community Culture & Heritage
US $1,000 - US $20,000
The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.
Applications due May 15, 2026

Ameriprise Community Grants

Ameriprise Financial

Food Delivery & Distribution Services Food Access & Hunger Supportive Housing & Shelters
Unspecified amount
Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.
Applications due May 15, 2026

Robinson Foundation Grant

Robinson Foundation

Religion & Spirituality Family Services Youth Services
Unspecified amount
The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.
Applications due Jun 18, 2026

Asian Giving Circle Grant

The Chicago Community Trust

Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Minority Services
US $10,000
The Asian Giving Circle (AGC) Grant, established in 2002, supports Asian and Pacific Islander nonprofits in the Chicago area by pooling donor resources to advance social justice. With over $800,000 in contributions, AGC prioritizes proposals from API organizations for general operating costs, emphasizing support for underrepresented communities and innovative projects. Applications will be reviewed from mid-June to August 2025, with awards announced by September.
Applications due Aug 31, 2026

Gupta Family Foundation Grant

Gupta Family Foundation

Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Poverty Alleviation & Services Human & Social Services
US $5,000 - US $250,000
The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.
Applications due Oct 16, 2026

Insperity Corporate Contributions

Insperity

Community Services
Unspecified amount
Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.
Applications due Oct 31, 2026

Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant

Dudley T Dougherty Foundation Inc

Community Services Environmental Conservation Environment
Unspecified amount
The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

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Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois Highlights

Last updated: February 2, 2026. Next update: March 1, 2026.

Top Searched Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois

Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois from Private Funders
Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois over $20k

Grant Insights : Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

300+ Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

70 Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois over $25K in average grant size

46 Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois over $50K in average grant size

67 Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois supporting general operating expenses

200+ Seed grants for nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois supporting programs / projects

900+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Seed grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois?

Most grants are due in the fourth quarter.

Q1
25.7%
Q2
23.9%
Q3
22.0%
Q4
28.4%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Chicago, Illinois?

Grants are most commonly $10,000.

Min.
Median
Average
Max.