Since 1989, Trees Forever has created nationally-award-winning programs that pool resources from donors and sponsors to fund and assist with needed grassroots projects. We’re also dedicated to working with diverse communities and celebrating cultures through projects that tie to the Trees Forever mission.
Our Trees Forever staff is available to help you plan and develop your planting project, submit your design and application, and even recruit volunteers and plan your planting event. If you have any questions, please call 1-800-369-1269, ext. 110
Below are the programs and application deadlines. Click each program title for more information about the program and its application process.
Alliant Energy’s Community Tree Planting Program
Applications for Iowa and Wisconsin are open! Due Date has been extended.
Grants up to $5,000 (per community) for community-based tree planting projects in Iowa or Wisconsin communities where Alliant Energy provides electric and/or natural gas service.
Black Hills Energy Power of Trees
Applications now closed.
Grants of up to $5,000 per project for community-based tree planting projects in Iowa communities that are served by Black Hills Energy.
Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning
Applications now closed.
Iowa Communities with populations equal to or less than 10,000 are eligible to apply to receive planning and design services that encourage visionary and yet strategic thinking about transportation improvements. Eight communities are selected for the program each year.
Illinois Community Forestry – Recover, Replant, Restore!
Applications now closed.
Grants of $500 to $3,000 are available to Illinois communities diversifying their community forests or recovering from natural or man-made disasters particularly emerald ash borer (EAB). The grants will also help communities prepare for these disasters by planting more diverse disease- and storm-resistant shade trees. Projects may include planting trees along streets, trails, community entryways, at schools, public buildings, parks and more.
Illinois Community Canopy: Tree Planting
Now open! Apply by December 31, 2025.
Grants of $3,000 to $15,000 are available to eligible Illinois communities to aid in diversifying their community forests. The grants will help communities expand their canopy and capacity by planting more diverse trees in their communities.
Illinois Community Canopy: Tree Inventory and Management
Now open! Apply by December 31, 2025.
Fund the completion of a tree inventory and management plan that will guide your town to maintain and expand its canopy and help address issues discovered during the inventory. Completing an inventory/management plan would earn a community the opportunity to apply for another tree planting grant. To determine if your community is eligible check the IRA screening tool.
Illinois Community Canopy: Tree Removal
Now open! Apply by December 31, 2025.
Eligible communities can apply for these competitive grants to pay for tree removal of dead, dying, or damaged trees on public land by a certified professional. Communities can then be eligible for a tree planting grant to replace trees that are removed.
Community Project Funding Guide
Looking for funding to help your community’s vision become a reality?
Check out the Community Project Funding Guide for a compiled list of available funding sources, grant opportunities, and useful resources!