Apply for the Fund


The Neighborhood Opportunity Fund finances projects in commercial corridors across Chicago's South, Southwest and West Sides.

Step 1: Determine Project Eligibility

NOF does not award grants for the construction or rehabilitation of residential uses, manufacturing uses, industrial uses, social services (including daycare and elder care), or places of worship that do not identify commercial as the primary use of a project. Non-profit organizations are eligible for the NOF grant, but they must be engaged in a retail or commercial activity or providing a cultural asset that is open to the public.

Search for your project address below to see if you are eligible to apply for a Neighborhood Opportunity Fund grant. 

Step 2: Review Program Guidelines

Review the the program guidelines to learn about the program rules and regulations,  requirements for applicants, and the application review and project selection process.

Step 3: Get More Information

Please review applicant support resources, including previously recorded information sessions and upcoming events.

Step 4: Submit an Application

NOF Small Grants

For the year 2023, a joint Universial Small Grant Application has been created to support the NOF as well as the Climate Infrastructre Fund, Equitable Transit Oriented Development and the Chicago Recovery Plan - Community Development Grant.

In order to be considered for the first round of NOF funding, applications must be submitted by 11:59PM (CST), on Friday, February 24, 2023.

To apply to the NOF, Climate Inrasture Fund, Equitable Transit Oriented Development or the Chicago Recovery Plan - Community Development Grant (grants of $250,000 or less only), please begin here

Applicants who are new to the Submittable application system will be asked to create a free account before proceeding with the application.  This will allow applicants to save their draft application until ready for submission.


NOF Large Grants

Those interested in a grant of more than $250,000, not to exceed $2,500,000, must complete and submit a Universal Financial Incentives Application

NOF and CRP Large Grant applications are currently being accepted until 11:59pm (CST), on Friday, August 18, 2023.

All projects that receive Large Grants are subject to the City of Chicago Construction Compliance Policies .

Please email FID_Intake@cityofchicago.org with questions regarding the NOF Large Grant Application.

 

Questions?

Contact us for assistance with understanding the program guidelines and application process or with any questions about the program.