Veterans Cash

In 2006, the inaugural specialty lottery ticket for veterans, Winter Winnings, marked a significant milestone as the first lottery game in the United States dedicated to allocating 100 percent of net proceeds to support veterans. Administered by the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), these funds are distributed in the form of cash grants through a competitive grant program. Administered by IDVA, these funds, distributed in the form of cash grants through a competitive grant program, serve as a reimbursement grant. Applicants can request funding within the range of $25,000 to $100,000.

The IDVA's Cash Grant Committee reviews applications from veterans' organizations every quarter and submits their recommendations to the IDVA Director for final approval.

For more information about the Illinois Lottery, please visit www.illinoislottery.com.

** VETS CASH ANNOUNCEMENT **

Vets Cash only accepts on-line applications in the AmpliFund’s grants management system!

Please click this link on how to apply, how to submit quarterly reports and additional training. IL - IDVA - Grantee (vidyard.com)

Eligibility is extended to government agencies, not-for-profits, veterans organizations, and tax-exempt entities already engaged in or aiming to broaden their support for veterans. This program does not award grants to individuals. Organizations focusing on veterans services, encouraged to apply for a Veterans' Cash grant, particularly in:

• Behavioral health
• Homelessness
• Health insurance costs
• Disability benefits
• Long-term care
• Employment and employment training
• Emergency financial assistance

Grantees must register in the Illinois Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Portal before applying for a grant in AmpliFund.  To apply in AmpliFund, click here Grantee Portal.

GETTING STARTED: Please read the “Announcements” regarding updates in GATA Home (illinois.gov)

Looking for active grant programs, current funding, and registered grantees? Visit the Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) CSFA link for a comprehensive source of financial assistance program information, including federal, federal pass-through, and state awards. State agencies update the CSFA with grantee awards under each CSFA number. If you're registered in GATA, Click this link for step-by-step instructions on applying through AmpliFund.

FY24 – 3rd Quarter Review

*Applicants may apply February 15, 2024 – March 30, 2024
Committee meeting: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 – 9:30 am
Grant start date: July 1, 2024 – End date: June 30, 2025

FY24 – 4th Quarter Review

*Applicants may apply May 15, 2024 - June 30, 2024
Committee meeting: Wednesday, August 14, 2024 – 9:30 am
Grant start date: October 1, 2024 – End date: September 30, 2025

FY25– 1st Quarter Review

*Applicants may apply August 15, 2024 - September 30, 2024
Committee meeting: Wednesday, November 13, 2024 – 9:30 am
Grant start date: January 1, 2025 – End date: December 31, 2025

FY25– 2nd Quarter Review

*Applicants may apply October 15, 2024 - December 31, 2024
Committee meeting: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 – 9:30 am
Grant start date: April 1, 2025 – End date: March 31, 2026

Veteran advocates can support our servicemen and women by contributing to the Veterans Assistance program. Simply write a check to the Veterans Assistance Fund and mail it directly to IDVA. Find the Mail-In Donation Form here (DONATION FORM.docx ).

All contributions to the Veterans Assistance Fund will be distributed by the Veterans' Cash Grant Committee to support Illinois veterans in areas of need.