Scholarships & Grants

​Acorn Equality Fund is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides scholarships and organization grants to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons, organizations, and allies to impact lives positively.

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

There are six types of scholarships awarded by Acorn Equality Fund for 2026:

  • The Acorn Equality Fund Scholarship is based on academics, volunteerism, and community advocacy.

  • The Central Illinois Friends Scholarship is based on academics and a commitment to public health. 

  • The Korty & Morton Scholarship is based on volunteerism, community advocacy, and financial need.

  • The Luke Scholarship is based on academics and financial need. 

  • The McKeon Scholarship is based on academics, volunteerism, and political advocacy. 

  • The Weber-Tucker Scholarship is based on 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.
The deadline for applications was September 26, 2025. Applications for 2026 will be available in May 2026. 

Recipients are notified in early November, with awards announced and presented at the Family Breakfast in December.

Organization Grants​

Acorn Equality Fund provides grants to organizations in downstate Illinois that support the education, health, or civil rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons and their allies. Grant amounts typically range between $500 - $1,500. Please request an amount that is appropriate for your project.

We currently have funds available for the 2026 calendar year.
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​Click here for a grant application.