Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity places: 26 partners, minimums from $1,500
26 Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity partners, minimums from $1,500 to $3,000, most guaranteeing a bib outside the lottery.
How charity places work
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program is the official non-lottery route into the race, with about 170 partner charities pooling thousands of guaranteed bibs each year. Minimums sit between $1,500 and $3,000 for most teams, with a few higher-end programs running $5,000 to $7,500 for premium teams. Most teams open applications in October through a priority drawing window that closes in mid-November, then continue accepting runners on a rolling first-come basis until September 15 of race year or until each team is full. Charity entries guarantee a bib, no lottery required.
26 partners listed
Questions about charity places
When do Chicago Marathon charity applications open?
Most teams open their windows in October the year before the race, with priority drawing close in mid-November. Many stay open on a first-come basis through September 15 of race year or until the team is full.
What are typical Chicago Marathon charity minimums?
Most teams sit between $1,500 and $2,500. Higher-profile programs like Special Olympics Chicago or Imerman Angels run $2,500 to $3,000. A handful of premium teams climb to $5,000 or more.
Does a Chicago charity bib guarantee entry?
Yes. Charity entries through the official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program are guaranteed bibs, outside of the non-guaranteed entry drawing.
Can I get my registration fee back if I miss the fundraising minimum?
No. Chicago charity teams require a credit card on file, and any shortfall against the minimum is charged after the race. Registration fees count toward the fundraising total.