Open space in our communities is a crucial element to the quality of our lives. They provide necessary space for respite, reflection, and connection with nature. They also provide vital ecological services that keep our air and water clean, flowering and food producing plants pollinated, and climate cool. Too often, communities don’t have the capital needed for planning, restoring, and acquiring open spaces. The ComEd Green Region Grant was created in 2013 to support open space projects in Northern Illinois.
Now celebrating its eleventh year, the ComEd Green Region Grant awards grants up to $10,000 for conservation projects based in Northern Illinois. After last year’s successful expansion, we will again be inviting non-profits and educational agencies to apply with a letter of support from a government agency in their community. With the climate crisis posing new and increasing challenges in our region, the ComEd Green Region Grant has put a new focus on building climate resiliency through local stewardship. Special consideration is given to projects that focus on nature-based solutions to climate change and pollinator habitats to support wildlife. These innovative projects plan for, protect, and restore natural places in diverse communities across Northern Illinois.
Since the ComEd Green Region Grant began in 2013, 1,599,729 people have benefited from the Grant’s open space improvements. ComEd Green Region funded projects supported 82,161 feet of ADA accessible trails, 1,454 acres of protected, restored or improved land and planted 38,145 trees. Through the Grant, $1.9 million and counting has been awarded to nearly two hundred conservation projects in Northern Illinois.
The 2023 application will open on January 13 and close on March 24. Sign up for our newsletter for updates throughout the year.
