AWF THINK Grants Program in Illinois

The THINK • EXPLORE • SHARE grant program offers arts organizations in Chicago and Cook County funding to adapt their operations and practices to a changing arts environment. These grants are specifically for planning (THINK) and implementation (EXPLORE) of structural, operational, and financial changes, aiming to increase resilience and support organizational transitions. They focus on enhancing partnerships, tackling longstanding challenges, and building sustainable processes. Not designed for routine operational costs, the program encourages innovative approaches to capacity building, with priority given to projects that can significantly impact the organization’s sustainability and effectiveness. Grant Process and Priority Criteria At least 65% of grants are reserved for BIPOC-led arts organizations. The application review, conducted by a panel of artists and funders, does not require a new idea; existing projects or broader, multi-source funded initiatives are also eligible if AWF funding can help propel the work forward. Applicants can choose either a THINK or EXPLORE grant, but only one application per organization is permitted at a time. Collaborative and cross-sector projects are encouraged if they demonstrate equitable benefit distribution among partners. Eligibility Requirements Eligible applicants must: Have an arts-focused mission and 501(c)(3) public charity status or a fiscal agent with this designation. Be BIPOC-led organizations with expenses up to $2 million or any arts organization with expenses under $800,000. Serve the Chicago and Cook County area. Ineligible applications include those for general operating support, creative production, ongoing programming, or projects lacking a capacity-building focus. Universities, schools, religious entities, and projects seeking reimbursement, debt reduction, or capital purchases are also not eligible. Review Criteria Applications are assessed based on: Idea/Need: Clearly defined issue and its importance to the organization. Adaptation: Whether the project represents a necessary organizational shift. Plan: Clarity and feasibility of the proposed approach. Capacity: Suitability of the budget and readiness for project implementation. Impact: The potential for meaningful organizational improvement. Broader Learning (EXPLORE grants only): Potential for field-wide impact and shared learning. This program empowers arts organizations to innovate and strengthen their operations, emphasizing equity, sustainability, and community relevance.