Community-Led Grants

The Evanston Community Foundation (ECF) offers Community-Led Grants through a model that emphasizes inclusivity, accountability, and transparency by placing grantmaking power directly in the hands of local residents. This approach allows the community itself—those most affected by funding decisions—to shape and guide how resources are allocated. It is not just a redistribution of funds but a strategic effort to support grassroots leadership, innovation, and nonprofit sustainability in Evanston, Illinois. Grants are awarded in two cycles annually, one in the Spring (January to April) and one in the Fall (May to September). These grants are for general operating purposes only and are designed to offer unrestricted, flexible funding. The primary goal is to empower grassroots community groups and nonprofit organizations that prioritize racial equity as a foundational element of their mission, vision, and values. Through this funding, ECF aims to address systemic inequities and uplift the vital work of organizations contributing to a more just and resilient Evanston. Each grantmaking cycle is shaped by the insights of committees made up of 10 to 12 community members, including one ECF board member. These committees consist of alumni from Leadership Evanston, Advocates for Action, and other local leadership programs. Their diverse racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds provide a multidimensional perspective on the needs of the community, ensuring funding decisions reflect a broad spectrum of lived experiences. This method of community-led grantmaking ensures that resources reach areas of greatest need and opportunity, while also fostering trust and strengthening community bonds. It is a long-term investment in local leadership and grassroots capacity. The process is both collaborative and strategic, ensuring decisions are not only values-driven but also responsive to real-world challenges. While the foundation aims to support as many organizations as possible, ECF makes clear that not all applications can be funded due to resource limitations. In exceptional cases, awarded funds may be restricted to ensure compliance with internal policies and broader charitable obligations. In such instances, applicants will be contacted directly by ECF staff to discuss next steps or clarifications. Interested applicants should align with the foundation's commitment to racial equity and demonstrate a clear connection to the Evanston community. Questions or inquiries may be directed to the foundation via email at grants@evanstonforever.org.