Our 2025 proposal deadlines are Friday, March 28 (Spring Cycle) and Friday, July 25 (Fall Cycle).

Supporting land conservation, artistic vitality, and regional collections for the people of the Chicago region and the Lowcountry of South Carolina.

We seek to sustain and build resilient, vital, engaged, and equitable communities in our two regions by supporting conservation, arts, and collecting organizations.

More about how we work.

GDDF News

Explore recent news and stories from the Foundation, grantees, and partners. 

GDDF Awards Nearly $6.2 Million in Funding in 2024 to 127 Organizations in Chicago, Lowcountry of South Carolina

Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation Awards Nearly $6.2 Million in Funding in 2024 to 127 Organizations in Chicago, Lowcountry of South Carolina  $2.5 Million Granted to 58 Nonprofits in End-of-Year Grant Cycle  (Chicago, IL & Charleston, SC) The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation (GDDF) provided grant…

Chicago’s Small Arts Organizations Present Diverse, Affordable Alternatives to Holiday Fare

Chicago’s small arts organizations present diverse and affordable alternatives to holiday fare this December, from aerial dance and unique theatrical adaptations to music concerts, live literature, visual art exhibits and more   With most tickets ranging from free to $25, programming is accessible to audiences…

GDDF 2024 Chicago Small Arts Survey

New Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation survey indicates Chicago’s small arts sector is thriving artistically, employing more than 4,500 artists and presenting more than 1,800 productions, exhibitions, concerts and special events annually   Survey of 77 small arts organizations across the city, most with annual…

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