Awesome Foundation Chicago Chapter
/OVERVIEW: The Awesome Foundation’s Chicago chapter supports the arts, technology, community development, literacy, recreation and education in Chicago, Illinois.
FUNDING AREAS: Arts, technology, community development, literacy, recreation, education
IP TAKE: This is a very well-established and active chapter of the Awesome Foundation and one that considers many different types of local organizations for its micro-grants.
PROFILE: Established in 2011, the Awesome Foundation has a chapter based in Chicago, Illinois. This is one of many chapters of the Awesome Foundation, which is a “global community advancing the interest of awesome in the universe, $1,000 at a time.” The local chapter is run by 10 or more trustees who make financial contributions of $100 per month for at least six months, who participate in reviewing applications and who come up with new project ideas for the chapter to do. It funds local efforts for arts, technology, community development, literacy, recreation and education.
The Awesome Foundation’s Chicago chapter awards micro-grants that have no strings attached and are awarded after a short application process. It shares a map on its website of where the chapter has been awarding grants each year. Past grants have gone towards assisting the deaf and disabled, responding to emergency needs, bringing arts and cultural performances to Chicago neighborhoods and protecting endangered animal species. Other interests include dance, STEM education and multi-generational community engagement.
Grants are $1,000 each. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by following the Awesome Foundation Chicago on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and also by signing up for its local newsletter. Grantmaking focuses on the city of Chicago, Illinois. Past local grantees include Manga Art Studio, the Arts for Illinois Relief Fund and the HANA Center.
This foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits and individuals. Grantseekers should use the foundation’s online system to apply electronically for grants. The foundation reviews applications on the third Tuesdays of every month and responds to applicants between two and six weeks after receiving submissions. Direct general questions to the staff at chicago@awesomefoundation.org.
PEOPLE:
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