Ceres Foundation
The organization is a private foundation dedicated to providing financial support primarily through general support grants to various nonprofit entities. Its mission focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, community services, and health-related initiatives, reflecting a commitment to youth development and civil rights advocacy. The foundation supports a diverse range of causes, including educational institutions, community service organizations, and health charities, serving populations in need across multiple sectors. While the foundation is based in Illinois, its funding extends to organizations nationwide.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Small-to-mid sized nonprofits (scholarship funds, libraries, education and youth programs, community service organizations, and similar) seeking general operating or modest program support in the observed grant-size range.
Good Fit
- • Program areas aligned with observed grants (education, scholarships, libraries, youth development, community service, some health/advocacy).
- • Requesting general support or modest project/equipment grants in the $500–$30,000 range.
- • Located in commonly funded states (e.g., IL, MI, CO, VA, CA) or operating nationally.
- • Existing relationship, referral, or partnership with a current grantee or a board/contact known to the foundation.
Geography
Observed grants in 2024 covered 18 states and about three quarters of dollars went out of state, indicating a broad, multi-state footprint rather than a strictly local fund.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 91 distinct recipients and 101 grants; across three years the foundation repeatedly funds many independent organizations rather than a tiny closed circle, although many grantees are recurring.
New Applicants
Direct evidence shows 22 new recipients in 2024, but the foundation's filings state it only funds preselected applicants and no public submission route is published; therefore unfamiliar applicants are unlikely to gain entry without referral or invitation.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
