ComEd Green Region Grant

The ComEd Green Region Grant Program, administered by the nonprofit conservation land trust Openlands, supports projects across northern Illinois that enhance and protect public open space. Since its inception, the program has emphasized environmental stewardship and community engagement, and in 2026, it continues to offer funding for eligible organizations through a competitive grant cycle. In 2026, special attention is given to projects that demonstrate climate resiliency through nature-based solutions and to those that benefit pollinator conservation. However, applications meeting the regular program guidelines remain eligible and encouraged to apply. ComEd and Openlands recognize the growing urgency of climate change and the role of local stewardship in climate adaptation and mitigation. The 2026 special focus encourages proposals that demonstrate how nature-based strategies can help local communities prepare for, adapt to, and recover from climate-related challenges. Example projects include restoring prairies or wetlands, planting pollinator gardens, constructing rain gardens or bioswales, enhancing soil health through native species planting, and managing stormwater on-site. These projects are framed as tangible community actions that support long-term sustainability and biodiversity. Pollinator conservation remains a foundational element of the program. Citing that one in three bites of food we eat depends on animal pollinators, ComEd and Openlands encourage proposals that establish or enhance pollinator habitats. To maximize impact, applicants are advised to follow guidance from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and the Xerces Society, which includes planting nectar sources that bloom across the monarch migration cycle, incorporating milkweed species native to the region, and creating signage to educate the public about habitat restoration efforts. Grants of up to $10,000 are available, covering up to two-thirds of eligible project expenses. Applicants must provide cash matching funds equal to at least 50% of the requested amount. In-kind support is not accepted as a match. Past grantees may reapply if all prior grant obligations have been fulfilled and they have not received awards in two of the last three, or three of the last four, eligible cycles. The funded project site must be open to the public on a regular basis, and grantees must acknowledge the funding with signage and participate in media opportunities if requested. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, schools, school districts, housing authorities (with a required letter of support), and governmental units such as municipalities, park districts, forest preserves, and conservation districts located within ComEd’s service area in northern Illinois. The grant covers activities such as land acquisition for open space, habitat restoration, and improvements for passive recreation. Ineligible uses include staffing costs, active recreational facilities, and projects for regulatory compliance. The application portal opened on January 12, 2026, and will close on March 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Central Time. Applications must be submitted via the Submittable online platform. Awards will be announced in June, with a formal resolution and receipt of funds letter due in July. Projects must be completed within 18 months of funding, and a final report is due within two months of final fund expenditure. Retroactive reimbursement for costs incurred between the deadline and award may be allowed in limited cases with written approval. Applicants should contact greenregion@openlands.org with questions or for clarification.

Projects that address climate resiliency or pollinator conservation will receive special consideration. Emphasize community impact and educational components.