Partnerships
Collaboration at the Heart of Our Work
The Institute works in close partnership with the Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities and a broad network of institutions, foundations, and organizations to advance private higher education in Illinois.
Primary Partner
Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities
fiicu.orgFederation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities
The Illinois Institute of Independent Colleges and Universities works in close partnership with the Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities (FIICU), the statewide advocacy organization for private higher education in Illinois.
The Federation represents Illinois's approximately 130 private, nonprofit colleges and universities before the Illinois General Assembly, state agencies, and the federal government. It advocates for policies that support student access, institutional autonomy, and the long-term health of the private higher education sector.
Together, the Institute and the Federation form a complementary partnership: the Federation focuses on advocacy and government relations, while the Institute concentrates on research, programming, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen member institutions from within.
Partnership Opportunities
Working Together to Strengthen Illinois Higher Education
Member Institutions
Illinois's private colleges and universities are the Institute's primary constituency. The Institute designs programs and conducts research in direct response to the needs and challenges identified by member institutions, and invites their active participation in collaborative initiatives.
Foundations & Funders
The Institute welcomes partnerships with foundations and philanthropic organizations that share a commitment to strengthening private higher education in Illinois. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Institute can serve as a vehicle for collaborative grant-making and program development.
K–12 Partners
The Institute has a history of supporting programs that connect private higher education expertise with K–12 classrooms throughout Illinois. Partnerships with school districts, educational nonprofits, and state education agencies are central to this work.
Government & Policy
Working alongside the Federation, the Institute engages with state and federal policymakers to ensure that research and data on private higher education inform policy decisions. The Institute welcomes opportunities to contribute to policy discussions affecting Illinois's independent colleges and universities.
Explore a Partnership
Whether you represent a member institution, a foundation, a K–12 organization, or a government agency, the Institute welcomes your inquiry about partnership opportunities.