Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund Grants
The Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund, created in 2007, helps small nonprofit organizations with annual budgets of $1 million or less and at least one full-time employee. The fund gives special consideration to applicants serving areas with high poverty, unemployment, and economic distress.
Since its launch, the Charitable Trust Grant Program has awarded $5 million through 251 grants to 209 charitable organizations in 67 cities across Illinois. The fund is supported by fees paid by larger nonprofit corporations when they file annual reports with the Illinois Secretary of State, not by personal or property tax dollars.
2026-2027 Grant Cycles and Focus Areas
- Fall: July 1 – September 30, 2026. Categories: Food and Housing.
- Spring: January 1 – March 31, 2027. Categories: Food and Economic & Workforce Development.
In each area, the Charitable Trust Board will consider a range of programs, such as but not limited to the following:
Food Programs
- Food Pantries
- School Meal Support (after-school & weekend)
- Summer Meal Programs
- SNAP Enrollment & Outreach
- SNAP at Farmers Markets
- Fresh Produce Access
- Home-Delivered Meals
Housing
- Short-term housing and support services
- Emergency financial help to prevent homelessness
- Foreclosure prevention help and counseling
- Affordable housing support (building, repairing, and improving homes)
- Accessible housing options (for people with disabilities)
- Fair housing help and education
- Homebuyer counseling
- Renter rights information and support
Workforce & Economic Development
- Small business support centers
- Entrepreneurship training and support
- Resume help
- Interview coaching
- Job placement and help with staying employed
- GED classes
- Career and job skills training
- Apprenticeship training
- Industry certification programs
- Workforce training and support for people with disabilities
Questions?
CharitableTrust@illinoistreasurer.gov or 217-836-4590