The Illinois Equal Justice Foundation (IEJF) invites applications for FY 2025 New Leaf Illinois grants. These grants support organizations that help individuals expunge cannabis-related convictions under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. New Leaf Illinois is a statewide initiative connecting a network of nonprofit organizations to provide legal aid and support services to those impacted by cannabis convictions, with a focus on restoring access to employment, housing, and personal dignity.

The grant program funds work in three categories: Telephone Advice & Referral Services, Legal Services, and Community Outreach. Organizations may apply for funding in more than one category, but each category requires a separate application. To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, serve Illinois residents, provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals seeking expungement, and demonstrate experience in criminal records relief. Organizations must also participate in a collaborative network that facilitates referrals, shares data, and adheres to a standardized service model.

Applications open March 17, 2025, and are due by April 14, 2025. The grant period runs from June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026. The review process, including site visits, will occur between April 28 and May 16, 2025, with funding decisions announced in June. Grants will be disbursed in two payments: the first in June 2025 and the second in February 2026, contingent on state funding and acceptance of a midyear report. Midterm reports are due December 31, 2025, and final reports by June 30, 2026.

The FY 2025 budget for New Leaf Illinois grants is approximately $1.56 million, sourced from the Cannabis Expungement Fund, which is financed by licensing fees and taxes under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. Prior receipt of a grant does not guarantee future funding; all applicants must reapply each year. A maximum of 10% of awarded grant funds may be used for overhead costs, and funding may not be used for lobbying, sectarian activities, or legal actions under certain labor laws.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the IEJF’s grantee portal. Interested applicants can find more information at newleafillinois.org or contact Beth Johnson, New Leaf Illinois Coordinator, at bjohnson@iejf.org. The IEJF office is located at 24 E. Washington St., Suite 875, Chicago, IL 60602, and general inquiries can be directed to info@iejf.org.