How To Apply

Since November 8, the rights and protections of our communities are increasingly at risk. Community members fear the whittling away of reproductive health access, the dismantling of LGBTQ protections, and attacks on people of color and immigrant communities. As with the pandemic, community organizations and leaders understand how the changing political climate impacts the community. These leaders will need resources and support to respond. CFW’s Rapid Response Fund was created to support these leaders. This funding opportunity will provide grants for grassroots organizations adapting and responding to the changing environment, protecting and defending our fundamental rights.

Process and Eligibility

The Fund of $100,000 will award short-term, one-time advocacy grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to groups, agencies, and organizations with a valid 501(c)3 designation or which have a 501(c)3 fiscal sponsor.  Applicants are not required to have been previously funded by CFW. The funds will be distributed in two phases, $50,000 in the first quarter of 2025 and $50,000 in the second quarter of 2025. Eligible organizations must: 

1. Be a 501c3 or have a fiscal agent with a 501c3
2. Operate in the Chicagoland area (includes city and collar counties and in some cases
   statewide)
3. Have an organizational budget under $4M
4. Align with CFW’s requirements for board and staff leadership demographics
5. Be able to affirm CFW’s Guiding Principles

Deadlines

The Fund will launch on Monday, February 10 and will accept applications on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. More information and access to the applications can be found in CFW’s Rapid Response Fund Guidelines.