The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln offers grant opportunities throughout the year to support charitable programs and initiatives in Cass, Christian, Logan, Macoupin, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, and Sangamon counties in Illinois. These grants target various focus areas such as senior services, women and children’s programs, historic preservation, professional development, accessible recreation, and more. Each grant program has specific eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and reporting obligations, which must be reviewed carefully before applying. Applications are submitted through an online system, with submission periods typically opening four to six weeks before the deadline.

The primary purpose of these grants is to support nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups (for non-religious projects), schools (for initiatives outside of budgeted funding), and municipal or governmental units in delivering programs that address identified community needs. The Foundation’s initiatives cover broad objectives, including enhancing community well-being, fostering educational opportunities, supporting underserved populations, and preserving historical and cultural heritage.

Funding scope varies by program. For example, the King’s Daughters Organization Fund supports programs for seniors in Sangamon County, while the Women's Fund focuses on women and children’s programs across multiple counties. Other funding opportunities include the Junior League of Springfield Capacity Building Fund for nonprofit professional development, the Access to Recreation Endowment Fund for accessible recreation in Sangamon County, and the Community Grants Program, which has a broad charitable scope across all eligible counties. Each program is aligned with specific geographical and issue-based criteria.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, faith-based organizations proposing non-religious projects, schools seeking funds for initiatives exceeding their budgets, and government entities. Each grant has its focus area and priorities, which are outlined in detail in the Foundation’s application materials. Applicants are encouraged to assess the alignment of their projects with the Foundation’s priorities and ensure compliance with reporting requirements. Reports are submitted online and due on specified dates, typically several months after grant completion.

Grant applications are completed via the Foundation’s online portal, where specific forms and instructions are provided. For example, applications for the Women's Fund are currently open and due by February 10, 2025, while the Junior League Fund opens in April 2025 with a May 2 deadline. Each program has associated reporting deadlines, such as progress and final reports, which must be adhered to by grant recipients.

Evaluation criteria for these grants generally include alignment with the Foundation’s objectives, demonstrated community impact, feasibility of the proposed project, and the applicant’s capacity to execute and sustain the initiative. The Foundation emphasizes transparency and accountability, requiring detailed reports on funded activities.

Important upcoming deadlines include February 3, 2025, for the King’s Daughters Organization Fund and February 10, 2025, for the Women’s Fund. Interested applicants should review the detailed grant guidelines and application instructions on the Foundation's website or contact the Foundation directly for further assistance.