DeKalb County Community Foundation Opens Applications for Build the Future Grants

Nonprofit and public sector entities can apply for up to $100,000 to construct or expand facilities serving local residents.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

The DeKalb County Community Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 Build the Future Grant program, which offers up to $100,000 in funding to local nonprofit organizations and public sector entities for the construction or expansion of facilities serving DeKalb County residents. The application process includes a required consultation, a letter of intent due April 1, and a full application due May 15, with final decisions announced by August 1 and grants awarded via ACH transfer.

Why it matters

The Build the Future Grants program provides critical funding to help local organizations expand their capacity and services to better meet the needs of the DeKalb County community. This investment in community infrastructure can have a lasting impact on residents' access to important programs and resources.

The details

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public sector entities located in or serving DeKalb County. The grants can be used for construction or expansion projects that will enhance an organization's ability to serve local residents. The application process begins with a required consultation, followed by a letter of intent due April 1 and a full application due May 15. After a review process that may include site visits and project presentations, final decisions will be announced by August 1, and successful applicants will receive their grants via ACH transfer.

  • Applications are open from February 1 through May 15, 2026.
  • The letter of intent is due on April 1, 2026.
  • The full application is due on May 15, 2026.
  • Final decisions will be announced by August 1, 2026.
  • Grants will be awarded via ACH transfer.

The players

DeKalb County Community Foundation

A nonprofit organization that provides grants and other support to local nonprofits and public sector entities in DeKalb County, Illinois.

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What’s next

Interested applicants should visit the DeKalb County Community Foundation's website at dekalbccf.org/build-the-future-grants to learn more about the program and begin the application process.

The takeaway

The Build the Future Grants program is a valuable opportunity for local organizations in DeKalb County to secure funding for critical infrastructure projects that will enhance their ability to serve the community. This investment in community facilities can have a lasting impact on residents' access to important programs and resources.