Grant Opportunities

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois offers multiple funding opportunities for eligible organizations. Please review CFCI’s Grantmaking Guidelines before applying.

CFCI Competitive Grant Guidelines

Download Guidelines

Questions About Applying for a CFCI Grant?

For grant questions, contact Amanda Fiske, Director of Grants and Community Initiatives.

Email Amanda 309.674.8730
  • 2025 Community Arts Grants
    closed

    Application Period:

    January 6, 2025 – March 5, 2025 at 5:00pm
    Available to organizations that offer art programs aligned with their mission. Art programs must fall into one of the following categories: arts education, performing arts, musical and cultural activities, sculpture/visual fine arts for display, or art therapy initiatives.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 The Arts Mean Business Fund Grant
    closed

    Application Period:

    January 6, 2025 – March 5, 2025 at 5:00pm
    The Arts Mean Business Fund was established to support the generation of economic growth in the Peoria region through arts tourism, increased successful arts businesses, greater community participation in the arts, and financial support of the arts from local governments and economic development councils.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 Jean M. Ligon Animal Welfare Grants (2-Year Funding)
    closed

    Application Period:

    January 6, 2025 – March 5, 2025 at 5:00pm
    Available to organizations focusing on the care and adoption of homeless cats and dogs, for the neutering of both homeless and other such pets, and for the fostering of research and education revolving around adoption and neutering.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 Ackerman Family Learn to Swim Fund Grant (2-Year Funding) 
    closed

    Application Period:

    January 6, 2025 – March 5, 2025 at 5:00pm
    Available to organizations in Peoria and Tazewell counties to create or support programs that help youth learn to swim and expand awareness about the importance of water safety. Financial need of participants is a consideration.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 Emerging Philanthropists Fund Grant
    closed

    Application Period:

    April 1, 2025 – June 11, 2025 at 5:00pm
    Available to organizations with programs aligned to the Emerging Philanthropists Fund grantmaking principles, which support grassroots, evidence-based, innovative, and collaborative projects that address unmet community needs.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 Community Needs Grants
    closed

    Application Period:

    July 1, 2025 – September 3, 2025 at 5:00pm
    Available to organizations with programs aligned to CFCI’s grantmaking principles and areas of focus, including Children & Youth, Community Improvement, Education, Health, Human Services, and Workforce Development.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 Women’s Fund Success Grants
    closed

    Application Period:

    July 1, 2025 – September 3, 2025 at 5:00pm
    Available to organizations with programs that uplift and advocate for women and girls, reflecting the Women’s Fund’s longstanding commitment to female philanthropy and empowerment.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • 2025 The Local Jobs Fund Grant
    closed

    Application Period:

    July 1, 2025 – September 3, 2025 at 5:00pm
    The Local Jobs Fund was established to support projects that have a direct linkage to breaking the cycle of poverty by equipping people with the skills to earn significantly more than minimum wage.
    Learn More
    View Grantees
    Apply Online
  • CFCI Opportunity Grants
    open

    Application Period:

    Ongoing
    Opportunity Grants of up to $1,000 are available to organizations in the CFCI service area facing unexpected disruptions to essential services, such as a shelter unable to serve patrons due to a bed bug infestation. One request may be submitted every 12 months, with responses typically provided within 2–3 weeks.
    Learn More
    Apply Online

How do I apply for a grant?

New applicants must create an account and register as an organization in the CFCI grant portal. Returning applicants should log in with their existing credentials. If you believe you or someone from your organization is already registered, do not create a new account. Please contact CFCI to retrieve your username. Once logged in, click Apply to view available grant opportunities and application details.

Grant Portal Applicant Tutorial

To apply for grants, check in on your application status, or view previous grants, visit our grant portal.

Grant Portal

Questions About Applying for a CFCI Grant?

For grant questions, contact Amanda Fiske, Director of Grants and Community Initiatives.

Email Amanda 309.674.8730