K-12 Solar Schools

In order to be considered for a grant, you must complete an Application online by the March 26, 2012 deadline.

An Application consists of the following:

1.  Your answers to an Online Questionnaire that collects information about your organization and details on the proposed solar photovoltaic installation.

2.  Your completed K-12 Solar Schools Form that provides a detailed project description, uploaded as an attachment.

3.   Photos of the proposed location, to be uploaded as attachments.

4.  If you are a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization, the following additional attachments:

• A copy of your organization's Federal Internal Revenue Service Tax Determination Letter
• A copy of your organization's most recent Illinois Charitable Organization Annual Report
• A copy of your organization's current year summary budget
• A copy of your organization's audited Financial Statements or Annual Report

The grant application process is competitive. Some proposals may be funded at a lesser amount than requested, while others may be declined altogether. The entire process lasts approximately two months from the time your Application is received until awards are announced.

Step 1: Review the Guidelines and Criteria prior to beginning your application.

Step 2: Gather the information that you will need to complete your Online Questionnaire and K-12 Solar Schools Form. You will find it helpful to have the following on hand as you prepare your Application:

1. Educational Plan
2. Photos of the site
3. Project timeline
4. List and status of funding request(s) from other sources

Step 3: Download and complete the K-12 Solar Schools Form. Save it to your computer as you will need to attach it to your online application.

Step 4: 

Step 5: Review and submit your Online Questionnaire and Attachments. You will have an opportunity to review your materials before submitting your application. After you click on "Submit," you will receive an e-mail confirmation. If you do not receive an e-mail confirmation, please check your spam or junk folders for the message. If it is not there, please call the Renewable Energy Program Area Officer at 312-372-5191 to ensure that we have received your application.

Step 6: You may receive a follow-up e-mail or telephone call from the Foundation with additional questions regarding your funding request.

Step 7: You will be notified within approximately two months from the application deadline of the Foundation's decision. Some applicants will receive funding at the requested level, others at lesser amounts than originally requested and some may be declined altogether.

Guidelines and Criteria

Frequently Asked Questions related to the Foundation's Renewable Energy Grant Program.