Membership and Giving Circles

Supporters of the Council believe, as we do, that greater knowledge and engagement create a more open and promising world for all. Our members and donors help us make global affairs more accessible to more people.

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The Council is an independent, nonprofit organization. Your tax-deductible contribution makes it possible for the Council to foster deeper understanding and expand dialogue on global affairs through a unique combination of content, engagement experiences, and in-depth research and analysis.

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Levels and Engagement Opportunities

The Council is grateful for the generous contributions from its many members and investors who give annually. Contributions can be made as one-time, annual gifts or in monthly or quarterly installments. The Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (tax ID number 36-2181969) and contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

General Membership $100+

We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive forum for connection and discussion. Engaging more with the world also means engaging more with each other and diverse points of view. As a member of our community and in thanks for your support, you'll enjoy access to:

a network of people interested and invested in the world around us and the role we play in it;
a forum for personal interaction with thought leaders, world leaders, and subject matter experts;
opportunities to take part in conversations on global issues that affect you and your community—and the context and tools you need to make an impact;
opportunity to join the Young Professionals Network (for ages up to 45);
in-person events and members-only gatherings, mixers, and networking opportunities that take place in our state-of-the-art Conference Center.

President's Club $1,000+

As a member of the President's Club, you’ll enjoy priority access to all programs (virtual and in-person) and unique opportunities to:

take part in off-the-record virtual conversations and in-person meetings with global thought leaders, policy makers, journalists, CEOs, and other international experts;
connect with Council leadership, including hearing from our President Ivo Daalder, senior fellows, and other experts on their in-depth research and analysis on critical global issues;
network with other members who, like you, are supportive of and invested in the Council’s mission.

President's Club Silver $2,500+ and Gold $5,000+

In appreciation, access to these and other unique, intimate opportunities increase with support at the President's Club Silver $2,500+ and President's Club Gold $5,000+ levels.

Directors' Circle $10,000+

Donors who support the Council at this level enjoy highly curated in-person and digital experiences beyond what is offered to members of the President’s Club Gold. You will be invited to more private, off-the-record conversations, briefings, receptions, and dinners with higher level policy analysts, bestselling authors, and current and former government officials to examine relevant geopolitical trends around the world in-depth.

Ambassador's Circle $15,000+

Chairman's Circle $25,000+

Founders' Circle $50,000+

Donors who support the Council at this level truly shape the organization’s mission to help ensure effective US global engagement and support a more inclusive, equitable, and secure world. In addition to the experiences described above, you will be invited to join Council leadership, President Ivo Daalder, and members of our board in welcoming dignitaries to the Council’s platform, and you may be asked to serve on advisory committees or on task forces examining critical global issues in your area of expertise.

Request Information about Our Giving Circles Learn more about supporting the Council at the highest levels and the ways in which we show our appreciation.

Special Member Events

An aerial view of Lake Shore Drive and Chicago's skyline heading north towards Lincoln Park.

Global Affairs, Local Impact: A Conversation with Congressmen LaHood and Quigley

Hybrid EVENT

Congressmen Darin LaHood (R-IL 16) and Mike Quigley (D-IL 5) discuss the current state of global affairs and their local implications.

Global by Design: Rising Leaders Shaping Chicago

PAST EVENT

Local leaders from across sectors reflect on their work strengthening Chicago's presence on the global stage.

Jake Sullivan on How Foreign Policy Should Resonate at Home

PAST EVENT VIDEO Lester Crown Lecture

Former National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan delivers the Lester Crown Distinguished Lecture on US Foreign Policy.

Fulbright and Chicago Council 2025 Extravaganza

PAST EVENT

Members of the Council and the Fulbright Association are invited to join us for an evening of connection with other globally minded professionals.

Leadership Study Missions

These trips for major donors include meetings with government officials and other leaders, and provide unique, immersive experiences beyond the usual sightseeing and cultural exploration. Previous missions have visited Colombia, Israel,  Jordan, Cuba, Rwanda, Kenya, and China.

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Group of Leadership Study Mission travelers with the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame

Moments of Impact

Read stories from members of our community about how they were inspired to think differently or act boldly to improve the world.