Long before the first snowfall in northern Illinois, ComEd and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus are setting the stage for an extra bright holiday season. Applications are now open for the sixth annual Powering the Holidays Grant Program, a regional initiative built to help cities, villages and community partners deliver memorable holiday experiences for residents of all ages. Communities and organizations have until August 21 to submit their applications.

This year, $60,000 in grant funding will be made available, with individual awards up to $2,500. A broad range of projects are eligible, from downtown displays to public events and tree lightings. Since its creation in 2021, Powering the Holidays has directed more than $234,000 into over 90 unique holiday projects that energize the rich mix of traditions found throughout northern Illinois. For eligibility requirements, program guidelines and the online application form, visit the ComEd Powering the Holidays Program website.

"There is something truly special about the way holidays bring people together in the hearts of our communities," said Melissa Washington, Senior Vice President of Government, Regulatory and External Affairs at ComEd. "Powering the Holidays is our way of helping make those gatherings possible, and we are proud to once again team up with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus to invest in connection and celebration."

Applicants must be a municipality, township, county or local government unit operating within ComEd's service area. Nonprofit organizations may also apply if they are partnered with at least one qualifying government unit. Selected recipients must match at least 20 percent of the funds received to support a holiday event from Nov. 1, 2026, and Feb. 13, 2027. A panel of independent judges will evaluate applications, and the 2026 awardees will be announced in October.

"Year after year, we've watched this program inspire creativity and bring real joy to communities of every size," said Neil James, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. "We're thrilled to continue this partnership with ComEd and look forward to seeing the creativity that communities bring to this year's applications."

In 2025, Powering the Holidays distributed over $60,000 across 25 communities throughout northern Illinois. This program is one part of ComEd's broader commitment to brightening moments of connection across northern Illinois, alongside the company's longtime support of beloved seasonal traditions at Lincoln Park Zoo, Brookfield Zoo Chicago, The Morton Arboretum and Chicago Botanic Garden.

For more information about Powering the Holidays, visit the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus website.