Annual Grant Program

In 2012, the Grove Foundation established an Annual Grant Program and has been awarding funding to local organizations and programs every year since. The goal of the grant program is to support local efforts that enhance the quality of life in Downers Grove. In order to be considered, projects must benefit Downers Grove residents. If selected, grant recipients currently receive up to $1000 for their program or project.

To be considered for a Grove Foundation grant, the organization must submit a request via email. See below for more information about the grant program and to download an application.

Program or Project Guidelines

To be considered for a grant as part of our annual grant program, applicants must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Program/project must benefit Downers Grove residents.

• Program/project must align with the Grove Foundation’s mission.

• Programs, program materials and community experiences are eligible for grants.  A community experience is an event, class, or program that is open to community members.

• Organizations with their own foundation or fundraising process will generally not be supported.

• Programs and projects that are unique, eventually self-sustaining and/or serve diverse populations are preferred.

• Smaller, “grassroots” type local programs and projects are preferred. Large agencies or organizations (with substantial budgets) must clearly indicate the revenue and expenses associated with the Downers Grove program requesting funding.

• Funds cannot be used for day-to-day operations or overhead.

• The Grove Foundation Board reserves the right to make exceptions to the Program/Project Guidelines. 

Application Requirements

Organizations interested in applying for funding from the Grove Foundation must submit a letter to the Grove Foundation detailing their request. The letter must include the following:

1. Organization Name

2. Contact information of applicant (telephone and email required)

3. Organization History and Background

4. Other activities in which the organization is involved

5. Grant amount requested

6. Specific and detailed program/project revenue, expenses and description of how the grant will be used.
   Reminder: Grants cannot be used for day-to-day operations or overhead.

7. How the program/project currently is being funded?

8. Who will benefit from the program/project (senior citizens, teens, etc.)?

9. Description of how the program/project benefits Downers Grove residents.

10. What percentage of program participants are Downers Grove residents?

Applications must be sent via email to the Grove Foundation (info@thegrovefoundation.org). We will send an email confirmation when the application has been received. If you do not receive a confirmation within 24 hours, please contact us promptly. Your application is not considered "received” until a confirmation email is sent.

Deadline for electronic submissions is October 31. No late submissions will be accepted. 

See the annual grant program application for detailed scoring information.