Bright Promises Foundation is one of the oldest 501c3 public charities in Illinois solely dedicated to funding innovative programs that address emerging issues for at-risk children. 

Today, through research and discussion with leading children’s experts, Bright Promises Foundation determines the most critical needs of children that are currently under-recognized and underfunded in Illinois.  Through innovative grantmaking and capacity-building program support, we help to make immediate and long-lasting improvements to the lives of disadvantaged children and families.

2019 marks Bright Promises Foundation's 150th year of creating opportunities for all children in Metropolitan Chicago to reach their full promise and potential.

Bright Promises is unique among organizations serving children:
We work in the areas other funders haven’t reached yet. 

Bright Promises has the agility to pivot the focus of our funding as children’s needs evolve. We identify viable approaches to important emerging issues—issues that aren’t on the daily news yet, but will be—then make strategic investments in organizations that are doing trail-blazing work. 

Our work doesn’t end with our investment.  We ensure a lasting impact by supporting program and need assessments, quality evaluations, and a focus on outcomes for children.  With this holistic approach, Bright Promises helps move organizations from understanding of need, through training, and into lasting culture change.