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Whether you donate to an existing endowment or create your own, be assured that your passion is our purpose.
Support for charitable activities that benefit the people and places of northern Illinois. Over $1.7M is distributed each year through the Community Grants Program alone!
130+ Unique Scholarships, over $500K in awards, just ONE Application! Application open December 1 - February 1.
Community Grants Program
The CFNIL Community Grants Program applications are open June 25-August 20, 2026. The program is open to nonprofits providing charitable services to Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties in Northern Illinois.
Scholarship Awards Night Highlights
The CFNIL Scholarship Awards Night—held on June 16, 2026—was a truly memorable celebration of achievement in our community.
Scholarship Class of 2026
The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) is pleased to announce its 2026 scholarship awards: 273 total awards, including 203 individual scholarships, totaling over $590,000 awarded in the 2025–2026 year.