February 2025

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With our annual letter, we look to update friends and grantees about our work over the last year.  ​In these times of uncertainty and change, we are deeply grateful for the dedication and resilience of our grant partners. We remain committed to working alongside them to advance justice, equity, and opportunity for all.

 

2024 was an exciting year of partnership and planning for the Dewan Foundation. A few highlights include:

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• We provided $2.4 million of funding for four new solar installations at Christ the King College Preparatory High School, Chicago Jesuit Academy, Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep in Illinois and Hope Community School in Zambia!
   

• We launched our first-ever grant partner feedback cycle, which included an initial survey, listening sessions, and opportunities to reflect on and share key learnings with our community. You can find more information here.
   

• We provided $329,100 in funding for 53 organizations through our grant program.  If you are interested in the specifics of our 2024 grant making, you may learn more here.

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Looking Ahead: 2025 Focus on Solar

 

In response to the current political climate and uncertainty surrounding future renewable energy incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act, the Dewan Foundation—along with John and Sue Dewan—is prioritizing solar projects in 2025. The potential loss of government incentives could severely limit or eliminate our ability to fund these projects, which we currently provide at no cost to our nonprofit partners. These installations will generate long-term savings, strengthening their financial sustainability. Given the possibility that this opportunity may disappear after 2025, we are committed to maximizing our impact while we can.

 

That is why, in 2025, solar projects will be a priority and, where feasible, will replace traditional grant funding for our Illinois-based partners. The long-term savings from solar energy will far exceed what we can provide through direct grants, making this a more impactful investment. While this opportunity remains available, we are committed to supporting this transition and maximizing its benefits.

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We have approximately $2 million available to support our grant partners, but time is limited. For most opportunities, decisions must be made by the end of March 2025.​ If a solar project is still in the early stages, now is the time to make solar a priority!

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We remain grateful for your interest and continued support our work.  We hope to work together in the coming year.​

 

With our gratitude,

The Board of Directors

John and Susan Dewan Foundation