welcome to Chicago beyond

We address systemic inequity by backing solutions led by people closest to the issues.

We make strategic investments, lead national initiatives, and provide valuable insights to drive equitable change in philanthropy, justice, health, and beyond.

Since our inception in 2016, Chicago Beyond has invested more than $100 million in over 200 individuals and organizations in support of our mission.

Making catalytic investments to increase the impact of solutions led by people closest to the issues

Leading national initiatives in partnership with diverse changemakers to challenge and reshape the status quo

Sharing insights to disrupt and reimagine “systems as usual” and drive equitable funding, practices, and policies​

• Deepening our understanding of social challenges, root causes, and sources of strength 
• Prioritizing proximity in evaluating who we choose to invest in 
• Increasing the value that we assign to learning and iteration

• Establishing more equitable power dynamics in inherently inequitable systems 
• Cultivating meaningful relationships built on reciprocity and mutual respect 
• Taking intentional actions to support the health and wellness of our partners

• Simplifying grantmaking processes to reduce administrative burden for partners
• Making flexible, catalytic investments paired with strategic supports beyond funding
• Leveraging diverse data to better understand our work’s impact on human lives