Shedd Aquarium Society
John G. Shedd Aquarium Society (Shedd Aquarium) is the public aquarium in Chicago focused on animal care, education, conservation and research. The site presents visitor information, organizational mission and programs and clearly lists the legal name, EIN 36-2167918, and address.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Small-to-mid sized conservation or marine-focused organizations with clear program proposals that align to aquarium conservation, education, or research priorities.
Good Fit
- • Projects aligned with marine conservation, wildlife care, education, or research.
- • Clear program support request rather than general operating fluff.
- • Established nonprofit status and demonstrated program impact or partnership potential.
- • Geographic or programmatic relevance to the aquarium’s mission (especially Illinois projects).
Geography
In the latest year grants were paid to organizations in Illinois, Connecticut and Alaska, with about 65% of dollars concentrated in Illinois; the footprint spans multiple states but is not broadly national.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows three distinct independent recipients and the prior year shows different recipients as well, indicating a small but varied set of grantees rather than a single captive beneficiary.
New Applicants
Direct application guidelines were not found, but all 2024 grantees were new to the observed record, which suggests unfamiliar applicants can obtain grants; however the sample is small and no public application process is listed.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
