Applications for ECF Community Impact Grants Open April 15th through May 31st

The Edwardsville Community Foundation (ECF) is pleased to announce that applications for its 2026 Community Impact Challenge Grants will be accepted from April 15, 2026, through May 31, 2026.

Community Impact Challenge Grants provide funding up to $5,000 for eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, organizations, agencies, and government entities engaged in projects that serve the needs of residents within ECUSD #7 boundaries.

Grant Goals and Eligibility

ECF’s Community Impact Grants seek to support projects that:

- Enhance the quality of life for residents of ECUSD #7.
- Address needs not adequately funded by other community resources.
- Encourage cooperation between local tax-exempt organizations.
- Provide benefits to many residents.

Projects that do not qualify for funding include operating budgets, basic municipal or educational functions, endowments, debts, religious programs, or grants to individuals.

The Community Impact “Challenge”

Grantees are asked to raise 10% of their grant amount from new cash donations within 60 days of award notification. Once that match goal is met, ECF will release the grant funds. This challenge component encourages community buy-in and helps expand the network of local philanthropic support.

Application and Reporting Details

Apply online at www.edwardsvillecommunityfoundation.org/grants between April 15-May 31, 2026. If awarded a grant, your organization will be required to submit an evaluation form within one month of project completion to report outcomes. Projects lasting longer than six months are asked to submit interim updates.

Since its founding, the Edwardsville Community Foundation has worked to enrich the quality of life for residents by connecting donors with community needs and supporting initiatives that create lasting benefits across the region.

For more information on the Community Impact Challenge Grants or the Edwardsville Community Foundation, visit edwardsvillecommunityfoundation.org or email contact@edwardsvillecommunityfoundation.org.