The Midland States Bank Foundation offers biannual grant opportunities to nonprofit organizations serving communities within the bank's geographical footprint. Established to strengthen the general welfare, education, and health of local communities, the Foundation supports initiatives aligned with Midland States Bank’s core focus areas: education, workforce development, financial empowerment, housing, small business development, and health and wellness.
Grants typically range from $7,500 to $25,000. The Fall 2025 application cycle is currently open and will close on September 30, 2025. Final notifications for this cycle will be issued by December 31, 2025. All applications must be submitted electronically through the Foundation’s online portal; paper, email, or letter submissions are no longer accepted. The application must be completed in a single session, as progress cannot be saved, and applicants are encouraged to prepare using the Foundation's grant application tool.
To be eligible, applicants must be tax-exempt under IRS Sections 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) and provide a copy of their IRS determination letter. Eligible organizations must operate within Midland’s service areas and demonstrate alignment with at least one of the Foundation’s six key focus areas. Priority is given to programs that serve low- to moderate-income populations.
The application review process is comprehensive and may include additional requests for information or interviews. The Foundation emphasizes transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes in its funding decisions. Disbursements are typically accompanied by reporting requirements to ensure the proper use and impact of granted funds.
Organizations that do not meet the eligibility criteria will not be considered. The Foundation does not fund individuals, political organizations, discriminatory programs, annual appeals, travel expenses, operating deficits, or memorial campaigns. Each application is evaluated based on its alignment with the Foundation’s impact areas and its ability to produce tangible, community-centered results.
The Midland States Bank Foundation aims to invest strategically in communities with the greatest need and potential for meaningful improvement. Due to the high volume of requests, not all worthy proposals can be funded, and funding decisions may also reflect prior commitments or duplication of services already supported in a particular region.
Prepare answers in advance; late or incomplete submissions are not considered; priority given to high-impact, low-income programs.
