ACORN EQUALITY FUND
Opening Hearts. Building Communities.
Supporting LGBTQ+ persons, organizations, and allies through scholarships and organizational grants.
What We Do
Acorn Equality Fund fuels opportunity for LGBTQ+ people across central and downstate Illinois. We invest in education, health, and civil rights by providing scholarships and grants that open doors and strengthen communities. Since 1999, we’ve awarded nearly $0.75 million to students and organizations working for a more inclusive tomorrow. Together, we’re building a future where everyone can thrive.
Acorn Equality Fund is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
Big Dreams, Real Impact.
Fueling the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders and changemakers
GRANTS FOR ORGANIZATIONS
Acorn Equality Fund is proud to support organizations across downstate Illinois that uplift LGBTQ+ people and their allies through education, health initiatives, and civil rights work. If your project strengthens our communities, we’d love to learn about it.
Grant awards typically do not exceed $2,000, so we encourage applicants to request an amount that fits the scope of their project.
Funding is available for the 2026 calendar year. Click here to explore the guidelines and learn how to apply for support for your organization’s work.
Start Your Next Adventure
SCHOLARSHIPS
Apply now for a 2026 scholarship! The application window is open until September 25, 2026.
Every year, Acorn Equality Fund awards scholarships to LGBTQ+ students from across downstate Illinois who are ready to take the next step in their education. Award amounts vary based on available donations, but typically range from $2,000 to $5,000.
To be eligible, applicants must have a permanent residence within the Acorn Equality Fund (AEF) service area of downstate Illinois (all Illinois counties except Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will) and attend — or plan to attend — any accredited post‑secondary educational institution.
Scholarships Available for 2026
AEF will award six types of scholarships this year, each celebrating different strengths, stories, and forms of leadership:
Acorn Equality Fund Scholarship — academics, volunteerism, and community advocacy
Central Illinois Friends Scholarship — academics and a commitment to public health
Korty & Morton Scholarship — volunteerism, community advocacy, and financial need
Luke Scholarship — academics and financial need
McKeon Scholarship — academics, volunteerism, and political advocacy
Weber‑Tucker Scholarship — academics and social or family hardship
Recipients are notified in early November, and awards are presented at our Family Breakfast event in December — a celebration of community, achievement, and possibility.
Ready to apply?
Fantastic. Click here to get started! Applications are due September 25, 2026.
Make an Impact Today
Your Donation Helps Shape Lives
When you give to Acorn Equality Fund, you open doors for LGBTQ+ students, leaders, and organizations across central and downstate Illinois. Your generosity fuels scholarships; strengthens community programs; and expands access to the education, health, and civil rights that empower people to thrive.
Whether you make a one-time gift or become a recurring donor, your support creates real, lasting change. Thank you for helping build a brighter, more united future.
Acorn Equality Fund is a grassroots, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization based in Peoria, Illinois. All contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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Upcoming Community Events
Now accepting applications for Board Members
Interested in playing a bigger role with Acorn Equality Fund?
We’re looking for passionate community members to join our Board of Directors. By sharing your time, skills, and lived experience, you can help expand opportunities for LGBTQ+ people across central and downstate Illinois.
If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact, connect with any board member or complete a brief application.