Empowering Communities: Illinois' Path to Energy Equity Grants Program in Illinois (USA)
GrantID: 74147
Grant Funding Amount Low: $250,000
Deadline: December 31, 2025
Grant Amount High: $1,000,000
Summary
This grant program offers significant funding to support clean energy and equitable development projects. Awards typically range from $250,000 to $1,000,000, with total program funding of approximately $25.5 million, and roughly 40 awards expected to be granted during the current cycle. It's designed for a wide range of organizations—including nonprofits, local governments, community groups, workforce boards, and industry collaboratives—that are working to advance inclusive clean energy solutions in underserved or disadvantaged communities. Projects might include renewable installations, workforce training for clean energy jobs, energy efficiency upgrades, or initiatives that help historically marginalized groups access economic opportunities. A key focus is ensuring historically excluded populations—notably environmental justice communities, formerly incarcerated individuals, foster-care alumni, and similar backgrounds—benefit from the outcomes. The intent is to support sustainable, inclusive energy investments that foster local economic development, reduce inequities, and build capacity within historically underserved areas.
This grant requires no matching funds, though applicants must follow certain procedural requirements and pre-qualification steps. Applications are open through December 31, 2025, with optional assistance sessions provided to help applicants prepare strong proposals.
Overall, this program is ideally suited for groups in Illinois aiming to implement large-scale, impactful clean energy or equitable development projects. The grants can be used to finance equipment, build capacity, engage local partners, and drive measurable environmental and social benefits—especially where communities or populations that have historically faced barriers are uplifted.
If you are located in Illinois and working in the area of Small Business, this funding opportunity may be a good fit. For more relevant grant options that support your work and priorities, visit The Grant Portal and use the Search Grant tool to find opportunities.
Eligible Regions
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