What We Fund
We aim to be transparent about how we operate. Therefore, we feel it is important to be clear to grantseekers that most of our grantmaking is dedicated to furthering strategies with specific program goals. We generally do not fund unsolicited proposals.
Although very few are selected for funding, we review unsolicited proposals that meet our guidelines. Before submitting a proposal, we recommend that you carefully read our grant guidelines, which help applicants determine whether their idea for a grant fits a particular grantmaking strategy.
From time to time, we may announce an open call for proposals to advance specific program goals. In such instances, information will be available on our website.
More on our grant application process
Awards
100&Change, our competition for a single $100 million grant, is open to any proposed solution to any critical problem of our time. Nonprofit and qualifying for-profit organizations may apply. The competition cycle repeats every three years.
Please note that the MacArthur Fellows Program, which awards unrestricted grants to exceptionally creative individuals, does not accept applications or public nominations.
What We Do Not Fund
The Foundation does not provide funding for the following:
- Scholarships or tuition assistance for undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate studies;
- Grants to individuals, except for Leaders for a New Chicago, and the MacArthur Fellows Program, which is not open to applications or public nominations;
- Annual fundraising drives;
- Paid advertisements; or
- Political activities or attempts to influence action on specific legislation.
Grant Guidelines
View our grant guidelines and which programs are accepting letters of inquiry.
- Chicago Commitment
- Advancing LeadershipAccepting
- Civic PartnershipAccepting
- Culture, Equity, and the ArtsAccepting
- Arts & Culture Loan FundAccepting
- International Connections FundNot Accepting
- Vital CommunitiesAccepting
- Climate Solutions Not Accepting
- Criminal Justice Not Accepting
- Impact Investments Not Accepting
- Jounalism and Media Not Accepting
- Local News Not Accepting
- Nuclear Challenges Not Accepting
- On Nigeria Not Accepting
- Philanthropy Not Accepting
- Technology in the Public Interest Not Accepting
Submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI)
You may start the LOI process by taking our eligibility quiz.
START AN LOI 
