The Chicago Community Trust: Sponsorships Grant

Note: 1) Please submit your request 2-3 months before your event, to be sure that it can realistically be funded if selected. 2) Do not submit your request earlier than 4 months before your event is scheduled to take place.
As our region’s community foundation, The Chicago Community Trust is a platform for change that connects philanthropy to impact. We bring together generous donors, committed organizations, and caring residents to effect lasting change that moves our entire region forward.
The Trust dedicates a portion of its discretionary grantmaking budget to sponsor programming events that strengthen economic mobility, increase opportunity and well-being, and address critical needs in Chicago.
Background
For many organizations, public events are essential to raising funds, implementing programs, and building communities. The Chicago Community Trust dedicates a portion of its discretionary grantmaking budget to sponsor programming events that strengthen economic mobility, increase opportunity and well-being, and address critical needs in Chicago. Sponsorship applications are reviewed twice a year, in alignment with summer and fall event seasons. To be considered for funding, an event must be produced by an eligible organization that is located in or primarily serving Cook County.
Need/Opportunity Statement
Sponsorships are available for programming events such as meetings, forums, conferences, community and cultural events, and other gatherings. We will also consider sponsorship requests for fundraising events such as galas, luncheons, and walk-a-thons. Event objectives should align with the Trust’s priorities to strengthen economic mobility, increase opportunity and well-being, and address critical needs in Chicago communities.
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their event aligns with the Trust commitment to convene people, partners and organizations, address the needs of our community, and support initiatives for long-term change. Organizations should showcase how the event uplifts community-driven solutions, amplifies resident voices, supports inclusive development, or promotes innovative approaches to homeownership or income growth.
Sponsorships are limited to one award per organization in any 12-month period.

Eligibility

To be considered for funding, the applicant must be a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization or an organization that has a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.The applying organization must be located in or primarily serving Cook County

Ineligibility

Religious activities
Events already sponsored with an existing Trust grant. This includes multi-year grant agreements that are still currently active.