Square One Foundation envisions a future in Chicago that is more equitable – a future where social, economic and civic opportunities are available to, and seized by, all of us.
To bring this vision to reality, Square One Foundation has a clear and focused mission: to break down barriers and promote expanded access to economic and social opportunity for all Chicagoans. A family foundation, Square One is focused on strengthening organizations and bringing together people from all over the city to ensure everyone has a voice in shaping their future.
A more just and equitable world is both possible and imperative.
At This Time of Divisive Partisan Politics, Square One is Honored to Have Provided Seed Funding for the Bipartisan Policy Center’s American Congressional Exchange
The American Congressional Exchange (ACE) gives members of Congress the opportunity to spend real time together in each other’s districts and, as ACE participant Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA-6) has said, “to understand where someone is coming from... by actually seeing where they are from”.
Square One is Proud to Fund the City of Chicago’s 2022 “Year of Healing” Initiative
Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice is advancing racial healing and transformation by bringing the community together to build a more equitable Chicago.
At Square One Foundation, we believe the world is not yet the world it ought to be.
Focus Areas
Pathways to opportunity
Currently the life prospects of too many youth are constrained by a limited or complete lack of access to quality education and economic opportunity. Square One Foundation works with organizations to improve our educational systems and support youth in developing the knowledge, skills and abilities required to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Strengthening our democracy
Square One Foundation strengthens democratic institutions, breaks down silos and promotes the exchange of ideas so Chicago residents can be heard and government will reflect, better represent and serve all residents.
In the News
Crain’s Chicago Business: “12 Chicago family foundations: Enough with the hate.”
The Square One Foundation is proud to be a part of this statement published by Crain’s Chicago Business.