ComEd Green Region Grant

The ComEd Green Region Grant supports local stewardship efforts to build climate resiliency and conserve pollinator habitats in Northern Illinois. Established in 2013 by ComEd in partnership with Openlands, this grant program empowers municipalities and community partners to protect and improve open spaces, such as native prairies, wetlands, and woodlands, which are vital for biodiversity, climate mitigation, and community well-being. The program reflects ComEd’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability and recognizes the value of strategic planning in land use for lasting community benefit. In 2025, the grant program emphasizes climate resiliency and pollinator conservation. While any eligible open space initiative may apply, preference is given to projects incorporating nature-based solutions that increase climate adaptability or support pollinator health. Projects may include restoring pollinator-friendly habitats, planting native species, building bioswales, or replacing impermeable surfaces. Educational elements such as interpretive signage are also eligible. However, applicants are not required to focus on climate or pollinators to be considered for funding. The grant awards up to $10,000 per project and covers no more than two-thirds of total eligible expenses. Applicants must secure matching cash funds equal to at least 50% of the requested amount, and in-kind contributions are not accepted. Funding may be used for planning, habitat improvement, passive recreation infrastructure, land acquisition, or conservation easements. Capital improvements must be related to passive recreation and habitat quality, not active recreation or regulatory compliance. Projects must be open to the public and acknowledge ComEd and Openlands in signage and communications. Eligible applicants include municipalities, park and forest preserve districts, townships, counties, and other local public agencies. Nonprofits, schools, school districts, and housing authorities may apply with a formal letter of support from a local government entity. Applicants must reside within ComEd’s service area and be in good standing with the utility. Returning applicants are eligible only if they have met all prior reporting requirements and have not received awards in two of the last three, or three of the last four, eligible cycles. Applications must be submitted via the Openlands Submittable portal between January 17, 2025, and March 28, 2025. Awards are announced in early July, and grantees must submit a receipt of funds letter and governing resolution by early August. Projects must be completed within 18 months, and a final report with documentation is due within two months of final expenditure. All funded sites must be accessible to the public and ComEd must be acknowledged in project signage. While the 2025 grant cycle is closed, the program recurs annually. Interested parties should monitor Openlands.org for updates and prepare to apply in early 2026. Questions may be directed to the grant administrator at greenregion@openlands.org. The official program guidelines and FAQ provide detailed instructions for preparing a competitive application.

Emphasize community partnerships, climate resiliency or pollinator focus, public accessibility, and precise budget justifications; ineligible expenses include staff time and active recreation.