CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The Community Foundation of East Central Illinois is opening its annual Community Commitment Grant Cycle on August 1, offering nonprofits in nine counties the chance to apply for durable goods funding — and encouraging donors to stretch their giving further with a new state tax credit.
The foundation, which has distributed over $25 million since 1972, supports nonprofits across Champaign, Coles, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, Moultrie, Piatt, and Vermilion counties.
President and CEO Allison Winter said this year’s grant pool includes more than $250,000, with up to $7,500 available per organization. The grant focuses on “durable goods” like beds, storage units, sensory equipment, and even gaming systems — tools that allow nonprofits to better serve their communities.
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The deadline to apply is August 31 at midnight, and interested nonprofits must have a valid 501(c)(3) designation or a fiscal sponsor that does.
The foundation is also promoting the Illinois Gives Tax Credit, a new incentive passed in January 2025 that offers up to 25% tax credit on Illinois income taxes for donations to endowed funds held by accredited community foundations.
“This is a big moment for both nonprofits and donors,” said Winter. “You can give today and see your impact grow — and with this new tax credit, it’s a smart time to do it.”
In addition to the grant and tax credit, the foundation’s Center for Nonprofit Excellence continues to offer free professional development and trainings for nonprofit professionals across the region.
For more information on the grant guidelines or Illinois Gives, visit cfeci.org or email info@cfeci.org.
