About
Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation is a 501(c)(3) affiliate organization that pushes the limits of what a downtown can be for its residents, workers, and visitors
The Foundation seeks to enrich the Loop’s public spaces through artistic expression and free cultural programing. By building a connection between people and the places they share, the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation hopes to create an inclusive downtown environment that fosters creativity and enhances the Loop’s appeal to the people and businesses that are a part of it.
Initiatives
Through support from the Foundation’s Annual Meeting, Gala, and corporate sponsorships for public events like Sundays on State and ACTIVATE, the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation funds strategic initiatives that enhance the vibrancy of the Loop’s public spaces. Explore the history of our past initiatives below.
Looptopia
The foundation of Chicago Loop Alliance’s legacy, takes inspiration from “White Night” events in Europe, and transforms the Loop into an all-night cultural and artistic celebration.
Pop-Up Art Loop
Re-envisions the Loop’s vacant storefronts during the height of the Great Recession.
Art Loop Open
An art competition showcasing the work of over 200 local artists, opens in venues throughout the Loop inviting the public to “Visit, View & Vote”.
The Eye & Cardinal
Tony Tasset’s The Eye & Cardinal, CLA’s first public art installation, serves as a catalyst for iconic sculptures throughout downtown.
Open Streets
A precursor to today’s Sundays on State, fills State Street with active recreation, public art and entertainment.
Go Do Good
Kay Rosen’s Go Do Good, a pay it forward movement, splashes building facades, streetpole banners and the hands of thousands of Loop workers and visitors.
Color Jam
Jessica Stockholder’s Color Jam, a visual transformation of the Loop, boldly colors the intersection of State and Adams.
ACTIVATE
The iconic, ACTIVATE, an alley activation series launches, meant to encourage Loop workers and visitors to experience hidden spaces in new ways.
Arts in the Dark
Chicago Loop Alliance sponsors State Street’s most creative parade, Arts in the Dark, hosted each October to honor Halloween as “the artist’s holiday”.
Loop Worker Mural
In recognition of the workers that propel the Loop’s economic engine, the Loop Worker Mural, Dwight White II and Paint the City exemplifies the workers’ persevering spirit.
Loop Mural Walk
Loop Mural Walk incorporates over 30 ACTIVATE murals with mobile technology for a cultural experience safely encouraging people back downtown following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sundays on State
Award-winning event series, Sundays on State, transforms State Street into a shared space reflecting the city’s unity, diversity and spirit; and encouraging economic recovery post-pandemic.
How to Support
In Chicago, the Loop is everyone’s neighborhood. It is the place where workers, residents and visitors share space and experiences. Supporting Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation’s efforts to advance the Loop as a high-performing urban environment is possible through a variety of giving and sponsorship opportunities, including Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation’s Annual Meeting, Annual Gala and project sponsorship.
Annual Gala
Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation’s Annual Gala gathers nearly 500 supporters for a celebration of the Loop’s rich cultural amenities and its continued transformation due to the work of the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation and its supporters.
Annual Meeting
Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation’s Annual Meeting brings together members and stakeholders for a presentation over breakfast of the Foundation’s accomplishments over the past year.
Want More?
Loop Mural Walk
Embark on a free downtown adventure through alleys and other off-the-beaten-path locations on this self-guided Loop Mural Walk!
Support + Sponsorships
Take your place in the heart of Chicago! Explore tailored sponsorship options that help your business connect, grow, and stand out with Chicago Loop Alliance.
Projects + Programs
Four program areas provide overall structure and direction for Chicago Loop Alliance as the organization strives to advance its service delivery and realize its vision.
Championing the Loop
For decades, the Chicago Loop Alliance has supported people, businesses, and culture to keep downtown Chicago thriving.
Support + Sponsorships
Take your place in the heart of Chicago! Explore tailored sponsorship options that help your business connect, grow, and stand out with Chicago Loop Alliance.
SSA #1-2015
State Street Special Service Area #1-2015 is a taxing district that funds enhanced services in Chicago’s downtown.