Northwestern graduation events set for 2026
October 28, 2025
Northwestern is accepting letters of inquiry for the 2026-2027 ANCHOR Grant program.
The ANCHOR program — Advancing Neighborhood & Community Health, Opportunity & Resilience — is led by the University’s Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations, which supports partnerships with community organizations that advance health care, economic and social empowerment, and children and youth learning across Evanston, Chicago and Cook County.
Northwestern has awarded more than $2 million so far, creating a powerful catalyst for change and proof of what can happen when universities and their home communities join forces, said Dave Davis, senior executive director of Neighborhood and Community Relations.
For the upcoming cycle, Davis anticipates awarding up to 10 grants ranging in value from $25,000 to $65,000.
Do you have an idea?
Northwestern students, faculty and staff, as well as community-based organizations, are invited to submit proposals to fund ideas that focus on structural change in one or more of the following areas:
- Health equity
- Economic and social empowerment
- Children and youth learning
Submissions are due by Jan. 26, 2026, and final decisions on grant applications will be announced in April.
Those interested can submit a letter of inquiry through the Evanston Community Foundation grant portal.
The University will host an information session on Zoom on Monday, Dec. 15. Register now.
Learn more about the ANCHOR Grant program, read FAQs and check out previously funded projects by visiting the Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations.
