Cook County has unveiled the Starting Block Grant initiative, aiming to furnish capacity building resources and assistance to community-based nonprofit organizations catering to Cook County residents.
These grants, known as Cook County Starting Block Grants, aim to aid small organizations in enhancing their internal capabilities and establishing robust infrastructures to foster organizational health, growth, and long-term viability. Unlike conventional grants solely directed towards service delivery, this initiative enables organizations to prioritize and fortify their operational efficiency.
“Strong and healthy community organizations help build strong and healthy communities,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Cook County is committed to partnering with community organizations working on the ground to promote the health, safety, and success of people and communities. Together we can advance equity and build the healthy and vibrant communities all Cook County residents deserve.”
Funded by the Cook County Equity Special Purpose Fund, established to tackle historical and ongoing disinvestment and inequalities in the region, this grant initiative aims to make a significant impact. In the year 2023, the County has allocated up to $5 million for the Starting Block Grants, and another grant award cycle is planned for 2024. Recipient organizations will be granted $100,000 in funding over a span of two years, dedicated to enhancing their capacities. The opportunity is open to nonprofit organizations across diverse sectors, encompassing Arts and Culture, Community and Economic Development, Education, Health and Human Services, and Violence Prevention. Eligibility requires organizations to maintain an annual operating budget under $1 million.
“Smaller, hyperlocal organizations play an essential role in our communities by working to build relationships every day and supporting residents facing a wide array of personal and systemic challenges,” said Avik Das, Executive Director of the Cook County Justice Advisory Council (JAC). “These organizations are doing meaningful, culturally responsive work but can lack the resources needed to innovate and grow as an organization. Cook County Starting Block Grants will help level the playing field for smaller organizations, allowing them to strengthen their infrastructure to ultimately serve the community at a higher level.”
The JAC is overseeing this grant program on behalf of all the offices under the President.
In preparation for the funding opportunity, Cook County is holding a virtual information session on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 from 12:00 – 1:00pm. The information session is open to the public and will cover eligibility criteria, the application process, and will provide an opportunity for questions. Register for the August 2 information session at: StartingBlockGrants.eventbrite.com.
The 2023 grant application period is open from August 7 – September 8, 2023. Applications received after the September 8th deadline will be considered for the subsequent funding round in 2024, subject to fund availability.
A Virtual Pre-Submittal Conference will be conducted on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 from 12:00 – 1:00pm. This session will serve as another opportunity for prospective applicant organizations to receive information on the funding opportunity and ask questions.
For more information and to apply, visit Cookcountyil.gov/JACGrants.
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