The DeKalb County Community Foundation is accepting applications for spring 2025 Community Needs Grants and Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants. Nonprofit and public sector organizations are encouraged to apply.

Pictured above: A $15,000 grant to the Kishwaukee College Foundation (Malta) in the spring of 2024 enabled the purchase of sunshades for the Early Learning Center playground. The sunshades provide essential protection by blocking harmful UV rays, keeping children cooler and safer while they play.

The Community Needs Grants program now offers funding of up to $20,000, while the new Build the Future Grants program provides up to $100,000 for eligible projects. Build the Future Grants are specifically designed to support the construction and expansion of facilities that meet the charitable needs of DeKalb County, IL residents. The Build the Future Grants program replaces the large request category of the Foundation’s Community Needs Grants, directing all construction and expansion requests from eligible organizations to the Build the Future Grants program. Applications are accepted annually from January 1 to May 15.

Community Needs Grants

Community Needs Grants support the capital needs of local nonprofit and public sector organizations. Funding is made possible through on-going donor generosity to Community Impact Funds, Field of Interest Funds, and Donor Advised Funds at the Community Foundation. Last year, this grant program provided $272,426 to address needs and support projects in DeKalb County. The application deadline is March 1 at 11:59 p.m.

Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants

Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants support music education for nonprofit and public sector organizations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. Funding is made possible through the Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund at the Community Foundation. Because of Wurlitzer’s local heritage, preference is given to organizations serving DeKalb County residents. Last year, this grant program provided $247,800 to support music education. The application deadline is March 1 at 11:59 p.m.

For questions on grant programs or additional assistance, please contact our grants staff at grants@dekalbccf.org or 815-748-5383.

A $2,500 Wurlitzer Grant (spring 2024) supported outreach to underserved minority and female students for 2024 OPUS Chamber Music Camp – Orchestra Parents/Patrons United Support.