OUR PROGRAMS
All of NICI’s programs are rooted in racial equity
to ensure we are supporting communities, organizations, and people who need it most. Together, these programs will foster innovative ideas, research, development projects, and wealth-building for lasting regional impact.
IMPACT GRANTS
An invitation-only program providing large grants to nonprofit organizations that drive meaningful long-term change and whose mission aligns with our pillars: economic mobility, commercial development, and small business support. Our grants are meant to support inflection points in the growth of organizations to help them scale their impact where those most in need can thrive. NICI invests in nonprofit partners who develop forward-thinking, innovative solutions and seek transformation within their communities. We continue to build a network of diverse partnerships with like-minded organizations that provide much-needed assistance, resources, and opportunities to improve the quality of life for individuals in our priority communities.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS COMMUNITY VENTURES (NICV)
A new economic development program that provides small business loans for minority and women-owned businesses. NICI’s goal is to support entrepreneurs as they start, sustain, or expand their small businesses in underserved communities. Over the next 4 years we will be investing $1M for those who qualify. To learn more about NICV, please click here.
CRITICAL NEEDS FUND
Grants available for nonprofit organizations to use for emergency events that have directly impacted their ability to provide essential services. Ideally, nonprofits can begin the work to address this issue within 30 days. These funds are available to organizations across the entire Nicor service area.