Firefighter Grant Program

The Illinois American Water Firefighter Grant Program was created to support the efforts of local fire departments and emergency responders within the company’s designated service territories across Illinois. Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is a private utility company providing water and wastewater services to communities in Illinois. Recognizing the crucial role fire departments play in public safety and community protection, the company established this program to demonstrate appreciation for their service and to provide financial assistance that strengthens community fire protection capabilities. The purpose of the Firefighter Grant Program is to provide supplemental funding to both professional and volunteer fire departments that serve Illinois American Water service areas, including sale-for-resale communities. By offering this funding, the program helps departments secure essential resources that may otherwise be difficult to acquire due to limited municipal budgets or other financial constraints. The program aims to increase safety, improve equipment reliability, and support training that enhances the preparedness of local fire protection services. Eligible expenses under the program include personal protective gear such as turnout coats, helmets, gloves, and boots, which are essential to firefighter safety. Funding may also be used for communications equipment, which improves emergency response coordination, as well as for firefighting tools and water handling equipment needed for effective suppression operations. Training activities and related instructional materials are also eligible, including reimbursements for specific fire training classes, manuals, and student workbooks, all of which help ensure that firefighters are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies. The program is limited to fire departments located within Illinois American Water’s designated service territories. Both professional and volunteer departments are eligible to apply. Individuals are not eligible to receive funding. Fire departments and districts may apply for only one grant per calendar year. Grant recipients are required to notify Illinois American Water once project requirements have been completed to maintain accountability for the funding. Applications for the 2025 cycle are currently open and will close on September 19, 2025. This is a recurring program, offered annually. Completed applications must outline the department’s funding needs and demonstrate how the grant will be used to support community fire protection. Grant recipients may receive funds via ACH or check. To expedite fund distribution, applicants are encouraged to complete an electronic payment template and forward it to the program contact after submitting their application. The maximum grant amount per award is $1,000, and awards are limited to one per eligible department or district per year. There is no requirement for matching funds, making the program more accessible to departments with constrained budgets. Questions regarding the program may be directed to Marisa Markowski at marisa.markowski@amwater.com. Illinois American Water reviews applications to determine how well proposed expenditures align with the program’s stated purposes, prioritizing needs that directly improve community fire protection. With this funding, local fire departments are able to secure critical safety equipment and training, ensuring they can better protect their communities.

Submit an electronic payment template to expedite funding