Women’s Fund Success Grants

The Women’s Fund Success Grants are administered by the Community Foundation of Central Illinois (CFCI), a private grantmaking institution dedicated to addressing community needs and supporting nonprofit initiatives within central Illinois. Since its founding in 1993, the Women’s Fund has served as an endowed grantmaking initiative under CFCI, specifically targeting programs that improve the lives of women and children in the region. The fund reflects CFCI's broader commitment to investing in strategic, collaborative, and focused philanthropy that leads to sustainable and measurable community benefits. The primary purpose of the Women’s Fund Success Grants is to support organizations whose programs are specifically designed to empower women and girls. Through financial assistance, the fund aims to strengthen families and communities by supporting initiatives that promote the well-being, education, economic stability, health, or leadership development of women and girls in central Illinois. Applicants must demonstrate how their programs directly serve this target population and contribute to long-term, positive outcomes. Applicants may request funding of up to $10,000 per grant cycle. Programs supported by this grant must be aligned with the overarching mission of the Women’s Fund and must benefit individuals residing within a 50-mile radius of Peoria, Illinois, excluding Knox and McLean Counties. The funds may be used to support either new or existing programs, and grant expenditures must comply with legal standards and nonprofit operating practices. CFCI does not fund endowments, annual or capital campaigns, or individuals. Faith-based organizations may apply provided their programs serve the broader community beyond a specific congregation. Eligible applicants include organizations that hold 501(c)(3) status under the Internal Revenue Code, as well as those operating under a fiscal sponsor with such status. Additionally, churches, schools, and units of government are eligible. To be considered, applicants must be current on all previously awarded CFCI grant evaluations. If a grant evaluation is not yet due, an interim report must be submitted along with the application to confirm ongoing progress. The application for the Women’s Fund Success Grant must be submitted online by 5:00 p.m. Central Time on the first Wednesday in September. Only one application per organization is allowed per year for this specific grant program. Applications must be signed by both the preparer and a member of the organization’s executive-level leadership. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered. Once submitted, each proposal undergoes a review process that may last between 30 and 60 days. Applicants will receive written notification regarding the outcome of their application. Following the conclusion of the grant-funded program, grantees are required to submit a final grant evaluation within one month of program completion. Failure to submit this report on time may disqualify the organization from future funding opportunities for a period of at least two years. For questions or more information, prospective applicants may contact the Community Foundation of Central Illinois at 309-674-8730 or visit www.communityfoundationci.org to view application details and access the grant portal.