The CBF has two grants cycles: the Organizational Support grant cycle and the Special Project grant cycle.

Organizational Support Grants

Each year, the CBF accepts applications for Organizational Support grants. The CBF’s Organizational Support grants provide consistent general operating support grants for effective, well-managed organizations in the Chicago area that are working to improve access to justice. Priority among the CBF’s Organizational Support grants is given to organizations that provide legal services to a substantial number of low-income and disadvantaged residents in an area(s) of law where there is significant unmet need in Cook County. 

The FY 2013 Organizational Support application process has closed. The guidelines and application for FY 2014 will be posted in fall 2013. The 2014 Organizational Support grant applications and letters of inquiry will be due on January 15, 2014. If you have questions about eligibility requirements or the application process, please view the FY 2013 Guidelines or contact Ryanne Easley at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or 312-554-1247

Special Project Grants

The CBF makes Special Project grants to support innovative projects that make the justice system more user-friendly and accessible for those in need, including court-based advice or help desks, pro bono projects, and systemic initiatives.

The CBF currently is not accepting applications for new Special Project grants.

For more information about CBF grants, please contact Ryanne Easley, Director of Grants, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 312-554-1247.