Community Canopy Tree Planting Grant

The Illinois Community Canopy grant program is an initiative administered by Trees Forever in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service. Funded by the Urban and Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the program aims to diversify and strengthen tree canopies across eligible communities in Illinois. By fostering urban and community forestry activities, the grant seeks to improve environmental quality, promote biodiversity, and support sustainable urban ecosystems. The program offers financial assistance ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 for first-time applicants, with the potential for up to $20,000 in subsequent awards following the completion of specific capacity-building milestones, such as the formation of a tree board or adoption of tree ordinances. The funding is strictly allocated for the purchase of trees, specifically those between 5- and 10-gallon container sizes and between 1” and 1.5” caliper. Other planting-related costs such as mulch, stakes, or delivery fees are not covered. Trees must be planted in public spaces, such as along streets, parks, schools, and public buildings, using ANSI and ISA standard practices. A maintenance plan detailing a three-year care schedule and a digital inventory of planted trees is required. To apply, communities must first verify their eligibility via the MIRA MAP tool. Once confirmed, applicants should gather a tree species selection plan that promotes biodiversity, nursery quotes, a budget worksheet, an aerial site map, site sketch, and a comprehensive project and maintenance plan. Only disadvantaged Illinois communities are eligible, and all trees must be sourced from compliant nurseries. Prohibited species include invasive trees like Callery pear and Tree-of-heaven. Applications are due by June 1, 2025, and must be submitted online or mailed to Trees Forever's office in Marion, Iowa. Following application approval, communities will receive an Award Agreement which must be signed and returned within 15 business days. All awarded projects are subject to a final inspection, digital inventory review, and the submission of a narrative and financial report. Reimbursements will be processed only after project completion and approval of these final deliverables. For application support or questions, communities may contact Illinois Field Coordinator Erik Notz or call Trees Forever at 319-373-0650 x 110. Additional guidance and resources, including tree species guides and application walkthroughs, are available on the Trees Forever website. The initiative encourages the planting of native and non-invasive species and supports long-term ecological resilience and community engagement in urban forestry.