ChatGPT answers, unedited

• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526, United States
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States

Yes. I’d focus on firms that explicitly work with nonprofits and have a stated discounted/pro-bono pathway, rather than simply looking for agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

A few Chicago-area options worth contacting:

• Windy City Web Solutions — Chicago-based, small team, focused on WordPress sites for nonprofits and small organizations. Clutch currently shows nonprofit website work and projects averaging under $10K, which makes them worth approaching if your budget is modest. Clutch
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — Chicago design agency with a strong focus on nonprofits, social enterprises, and purpose-driven organizations. Particularly interesting if the redesign involves messaging/branding as well as the website.
• Advocate Creative — Chicago agency specifically focused on nonprofit/foundation branding and communications, including website design and development.
• Firebelly Design — Has an explicit Grant for Good program that provides a year of free design services to one nonprofit, although you'd need to check the current application cycle and whether a website redesign fits the grant.
• Crescendo Studios — Explicitly offers qualifying nonprofits up to 50% off, with selected projects taken entirely pro bono. Their program covers web design/development as well as branding and media. Crescendo Studios
• Digital Mountaineers — Particularly intriguing if you mainly need a homepage/site refresh: they say they donate free homepage redesigns to organizations serving their communities. Digital Mountaineers
• Peak Digital Studio — Offers eligible 501(c)(3)s 15% off all services, including website design/development and ongoing support. Peak Digital Studio
• Rapid Fire Web Studio — Has a genuine annual pro-bono website program. Their 2026 project is already selected, but they say applications reopen in November for the 2027 project. Rapid Fire

Who I'd contact first

For a small nonprofit with a limited budget, I'd send the same short project brief to Windy City Web Solutions, Crescendo Studios, Digital Mountaineers, and LimeRed. That gives you four substantially different possibilities: conventional small-agency work, explicit nonprofit discount/pro bono, a potentially free homepage intervention, and a more strategy/branding-oriented shop.

If you tell me your approximate budget (e.g. $2–5K, $5–10K, $10–20K), what your nonprofit does, and what platform you're on now (WordPress/Squarespace/Wix/etc.), I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies and find their actual contact/application pages.

• AdEasel Chicago - 1304 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Designs 4 Dignity - 445 N Wells St, Suite 402, Chicago, IL 60654
• Designs for Dignity - 4311 S Western Blvd, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Greater Good Studio - 3759 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Web For Lesss - Chicago, IL 60651
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States

For a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d start with these:

• AdEasel Chicago — explicitly offers pro bono, at-cost, and discounted work for eligible causes.
• Windy City Web Solutions — nonprofit-focused WordPress work; recent Chicago projects under $10k. Clutch
• Crescendo Studios — offers up to 50% off, with select projects pro bono. crescendostudios.com Crescendo Studios
• Lorien Web — specifically offers discounted rates to qualifying nonprofits and small community organizations. lorienweb.com Lorien Web
• Ark40 Consulting — particularly worth trying if you're genuinely cash-constrained; its program provides free web development/technology services to a limited number of small nonprofits. ark40consulting.com Ark40 Consulting

My first three outreach emails: AdEasel, Crescendo, and Ark40. Ask specifically whether they have pro-bono/discounted capacity for a 501(c)(3) and include your approximate budget, current URL, and what you want redesigned.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States

If you’re a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d prioritize firms that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program rather than simply asking a general agency for a discount.

My shortlist

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — Chicago-based and specifically focused on nonprofits, social enterprises, and other purpose-driven organizations. They do the full website-redesign stack: UX, accessibility, SEO, content strategy, WordPress, integrations, and ongoing maintenance. This would be one of my first calls if you need more than a cosmetic redesign.
• Orbit Media / Chicago Cause — Probably the most compelling true pro-bono lead. Orbit says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits through Chicago Cause, its pro-bono website program, including Chicago CRED. Orbit Media Studios
• Fuzzy Math — Another strong pro-bono precedent: it did a pro-bono website redesign for Chicago nonprofit UCAN, including information architecture, donation flows, and UX. Fuzzy Math
• Firebelly Design — Has an explicit Grant for Good program providing a year of free design services to one nonprofit. Worth contacting to ask about the next application cycle.
• Crescendo Studios — Explicitly offers qualifying nonprofits up to 50% off, with some projects taken completely pro bono. Their program covers web design/development as well as photography, video, branding, and marketing materials. Crescendo Studios
• Windy City Web Solutions — More of a small-business/small-organization web shop, but specifically works with nonprofits and focuses on WordPress sites and ongoing support. I'd approach them if you have a modest budget and want a practical, maintainable rebuild rather than a large-agency engagement.
• Advocate Creative — Chicago agency focused on nonprofits and foundations, including website design/development, branding, and communications. Particularly interesting if the website needs to be tied to a broader messaging/brand refresh.

If the budget is extremely tight

There are also organizations advertising free nonprofit website work, although I'd vet these more carefully before handing over a redesign:

• Ark40 Consulting says its pro-bono program provides free web development and technology consulting to small nonprofits, with a limited number of organizations accepted each month. Ark40 Consulting
• Wired Byte IT Solutions advertises a 50% nonprofit discount. Wired Byte IT Solutions
• AMA Design Agency says it selects five nonprofits each month for a free custom five-page website. Free Websites for Nonprofits

Who I'd contact first

If this were my outreach list, I'd send the same short project brief to Orbit/Chicago Cause, LimeRed, Fuzzy Math, Firebelly, and Crescendo. That gives you a mix of genuine pro-bono opportunities and discounted professional work.

One important distinction: don't describe the project merely as "we need a new website." For a nonprofit, agencies will respond much better to something like:

"We're a small Chicago nonprofit looking to redesign our existing WordPress site. Our priorities are making the site easier for [people served/donors/volunteers] to navigate, improving mobile accessibility, simplifying content updates for staff, and strengthening donation/conversion flows. Our budget is approximately $X, and we're interested in pro-bono, substantially discounted, or phased work."

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget ($0 / <$5k / $5–15k / $15k+), what your current site is built on (WordPress, Squarespace, etc.), and roughly how many pages you have, I can narrow this to 3–5 Chicago agencies that are realistically appropriate for your project and find the right contact/application pages.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640

Yes. I’d prioritize small/midsize studios that explicitly work with nonprofits or have a stated pro-bono/discount program, rather than starting with the big Chicago agencies. That gives you a much better shot at getting a thoughtful redesign without a $25k–$50k+ agency engagement.

My shortlist

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — best overall for a mission-driven nonprofit

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 312-238-9070)

This would be one of my first calls. LimeRed is Chicago-based and specifically focuses on nonprofits, social enterprises, and other purpose-driven organizations. Their capabilities include website strategy, UX/UI, accessibility, SEO, WordPress development, integrations, and ongoing maintenance. Their client feedback also specifically mentions understanding nonprofit missions.

Why I'd contact them: If the redesign needs to do more than look nicer—e.g. clarify your story, improve donations, make the site accessible, reorganize content, etc.—they seem particularly well suited.

Ask: “Do you have a nonprofit rate, smaller-scope engagement, or pro-bono availability for smaller organizations?”

2. Firebelly Design — definitely ask about their pro-bono program

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-489-3200)

This is probably the most interesting pro-bono lead on the list. Firebelly is a Chicago creative studio with substantial nonprofit experience, and it has a Grant for Good program that provides a nonprofit with a year of free design services. Their work includes organizations such as Planned Parenthood, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and The Chicago Community Trust.

The catch: the grant appears to be competitive/limited, and it's not necessarily a standing “free website for any nonprofit” program.

I'd contact them anyway, particularly if your nonprofit has a compelling mission and a website that is genuinely holding the organization back.

3. Windy City Web Solutions — best budget-oriented Chicago option

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 847-801-9482)

This one jumps out if your priority is “we need a good website without spending agency money.”

They're a small Chicago shop focused heavily on WordPress, including work for nonprofits, and Clutch currently lists them at $1,000+ minimum projects with 80% of their service mix being web design. Clutch also reports nonprofit web work under $10,000 and strong reviews around communication and value. Clutch Clutch

I'd contact them if: you have a relatively straightforward redesign and want a professional WordPress site that your staff can maintain themselves.

4. What A Great Website — good boutique option

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-972-5699)

This Chicago boutique studio specifically works with small businesses and nonprofits, with an emphasis on positioning, branding and making websites useful as growth tools. A nonprofit client specifically praised their ability to capture the organization's mission in the redesign.

I'd put them on the list if your biggest problem is “our website doesn't communicate who we are.”

5. Advocate Creative — good if branding + website are intertwined

DirectionsWebsite

Advocate is particularly nonprofit/foundation oriented and does website design, development, branding, publications and broader communications.

This makes more sense if your website redesign is really part of a larger brand/communications refresh, rather than simply replacing an old website.

And there are some unusually good discount/pro-bono options

These aren't necessarily Chicago-only agencies, but I'd absolutely include them in your outreach because the economics could be much better.

Crescendo Studios explicitly offers nonprofits up to 50% off, with select projects taken entirely pro bono. They specifically list web design/development and say they review applications within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

Lorien Web is a one-person studio specifically focused on nonprofits and community organizations and offers discounted, mission-aligned rates. Their positioning is particularly appealing for a small nonprofit because they emphasize fixed, board-friendly scopes and sites that staff can maintain themselves. Lorien Web

Peak Digital offers eligible 501(c)(3)s 15% off all services, including web design/development, donation integrations and ongoing support. Peak Digital Studio

Ark40 Consulting is especially worth applying to if your budget is effectively zero: it has a pro-bono technology program for small nonprofits that includes web development and strategic technology work. They take a limited number of organizations each month. Ark40 Consulting

90five's Give-It-All program is another unusually strong lead: its program provides qualifying nonprofits/community organizations with design, development and strategy at no cost, including web design. They explicitly say there is no organization too small or mission too niche, and applications are reviewed individually. 90Five

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send inquiries in roughly this order:

1. Firebelly — take a shot at the pro-bono Grant for Good.
2. LimeRed — strongest Chicago nonprofit-specialist candidate.
3. Windy City Web Solutions — strongest likely fit for a modest budget.
4. What A Great Website — particularly good if messaging/positioning is part of the problem.
5. Crescendo Studios — potentially 50% off or free.
6. Lorien Web — potentially excellent fit for a very small organization.
7. Ark40 — apply for pro bono.
8. 90five — apply for Give-It-All.

I wouldn't lead with large agencies like Social Driver, Solid Digital, or Razorfish unless you have a substantial budget. Current Chicago nonprofit-agency listings show some of these firms starting around $10k–$25k+ and going considerably higher. Clutch Clutch

One important trick

Don't email them saying simply “We need a website redesign. What would it cost?”

For a nonprofit, lead with:

• your mission
• approximate annual budget
• whether you're a 501(c)(3)
• current website
• what's wrong with it
• what the new site needs to accomplish
• approximate number of pages
• whether you need donations/events/volunteer forms
• your actual maximum budget
• whether you'd consider a phased or pro-bono engagement

That makes it much easier for an agency to say “yes, here's a way we can make this work.”

If you tell me your nonprofit's website, approximate budget (even “$0–5k”), and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies that are the best fit and give you a tailored outreach email for each.

4. What A Great Website — good boutique option

This Chicago boutique studio specifically works with small businesses and nonprofits, with an emphasis on positioning, branding and making websites useful as growth tools. A nonprofit client specifically praised their ability to capture the organization's mission in the redesign.

I'd put them on the list if your biggest problem is “our website doesn't communicate who we are.”

5. Advocate Creative — good if branding + website are intertwined

Advocate is particularly nonprofit/foundation oriented and does website design, development, branding, publications and broader communications.

This makes more sense if your website redesign is really part of a larger brand/communications refresh, rather than simply replacing an old website.

And there are some unusually good discount/pro-bono options

These aren't necessarily Chicago-only agencies, but I'd absolutely include them in your outreach because the economics could be much better.

Crescendo Studios explicitly offers nonprofits up to 50% off, with select projects taken entirely pro bono. They specifically list web design/development and say they review applications within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

Lorien Web is a one-person studio specifically focused on nonprofits and community organizations and offers discounted, mission-aligned rates. Their positioning is particularly appealing for a small nonprofit because they emphasize fixed, board-friendly scopes and sites that staff can maintain themselves. lorienweb.com

Peak Digital offers eligible 501(c)(3)s 15% off all services, including web design/development, donation integrations and ongoing support.

Ark40 Consulting is especially worth applying to if your budget is effectively zero: it has a pro-bono technology program for small nonprofits that includes web development and strategic technology work. They take a limited number of organizations each month.

90five's Give-It-All program is another unusually strong lead: its program provides qualifying nonprofits/community organizations with design, development and strategy at no cost, including web design. They explicitly say there is no organization too small or mission too niche, and applications are reviewed individually.

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send inquiries in roughly this order:

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Social Capital-Chicago - 980 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that have actually done nonprofit work and explicitly offer pro bono/discounted engagements, rather than simply picking a highly rated Chicago web shop.

My shortlist

1. Orbit Media — strongest first call for a full redesign

Orbit has a particularly relevant program called Chicago Cause: it says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits through pro-bono website services, including a recent redesign for Chicago CRED. Orbit Media Studios

Why I’d contact them: This is exactly the combination you’re looking for—Chicago + nonprofit + actual pro-bono website redesign experience.

orbitmedia.com

2. Firebelly Design — worth asking about their nonprofit program

Firebelly is a Chicago creative/design agency with substantial nonprofit and foundation experience. They also run Grant for Good, an annual program providing a nonprofit with a year of free design services. Their work encompasses digital/website design as well as branding.

Caveat: Grant for Good is competitive/annual, so I'd ask whether your organization could be considered or whether they have a smaller nonprofit engagement option.

3. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — good if the redesign involves messaging/brand too

LimeRed specializes in purpose-driven organizations and nonprofits, combining branding, messaging and digital experiences. That makes them interesting if your problem isn't just "our website looks dated" but also "we need to clarify who we are and communicate our impact better."

4. Bark Design — promising smaller Chicago studio

Bark is a smaller, mission-driven Chicago design studio with nonprofit, education and cultural-sector experience and both web and communications capabilities. A smaller shop may be more willing to structure a project around a constrained nonprofit budget.

5. Windy City Web Solutions — investigate if budget is the primary constraint

They're a Chicago web shop focused on WordPress and explicitly work with nonprofits. Current Chicago nonprofit-web listings put them in the under-$10K average project category, which makes them worth talking to if you don't qualify for a pro-bono program. Clutch

One especially interesting option outside the traditional-agency model

Crescendo Studios has an explicit nonprofit program: qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off standard rates, with select projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically list website design/development and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

crescendostudios.com

That's probably the lowest-friction application I'd make immediately.

And one free option worth knowing about

Digital Mountaineers says it donates free homepage redesigns to positive-impact organizations. That's obviously not equivalent to a complete website redesign, but it could be a useful way to get a professional redesign started if your organization has a very small budget. Digital Mountaineers

digitalmountaineers.com

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send inquiries in this order:

Orbit Media → Crescendo Studios → Firebelly → LimeRed → Bark Design

I'd make the ask very specific:

We're a small Chicago nonprofit looking for a website redesign. We're seeking either pro-bono support, a substantially discounted nonprofit engagement, or a phased project that can be completed within a limited budget.

And give them four numbers/details right away: your current URL, approximate annual budget, desired launch date, and what you can realistically spend ($0 / $2–5K / $5–10K / etc.).

If you tell me your nonprofit's website, approximate budget, and what you want to change about it, I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually approach, including which person/program to contact and a tailored outreach email.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Studio Blue - 800 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60622
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• Kym Abrams Design - 213 W Institute Pl, Ste 608, Chicago, IL 60610
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize small studios with an explicit nonprofit pricing/pro-bono model over a big Chicago agency that happens to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — best if you need strategy + brand + website

• Chicago-based and heavily focused on nonprofits, social enterprises, and purpose-driven organizations.
• They specifically have offerings aimed at smaller nonprofits, including organizations with budgets under $5M.
• Good choice if the redesign also needs messaging, positioning, or a visual identity refresh.
• Crescendo Studios — strongest explicit pro-bono/discount offer

• They say qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects taken completely pro bono.
• Their nonprofit program explicitly covers website design/development, photography, video, and branding.
• They say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios
• This would be one of my first applications.

crescendostudios.com

3. Windy City Web Solutions — best for a practical, lower-cost rebuild

• Chicago-based and specifically markets custom WordPress work to nonprofits and community groups.
• They emphasize working directly with the developer rather than paying for a large agency structure.
• Their Clutch profile shows Chicago nonprofit/organizational web work with projects commonly under $10K. Clutch Windy City Web Solutions
• I'd put them high on the list if your priority is "get us a much better website without spending $25K+."
• Peak Digital — attractive if you're a 501(c)(3)

• Explicitly offers 15% off all services for eligible 501(c)(3)s.
• Does web design, WordPress/Webflow, donation integrations, branding, email, and ongoing support. Peak Digital Studio
• peakdigitalstudio.com
• What A Great Website — worth talking to for a small organization

• Boutique Chicago studio focused on small businesses and nonprofits.
• Particularly interesting if you need a straightforward WordPress redesign rather than a giant strategic engagement.
• Their positioning emphasizes practical websites and working within nonprofit budget constraints.
• Lorien Web — very interesting for a small nonprofit

• A one-person studio specifically serving nonprofits and community organizations.
• Offers discounted nonprofit rates and fixed proposals designed to be easy for a board to approve. Lorien Web
• lorienweb.com

If you want free, I'd try these first

There are a few unusually good leads:

• Digital Mountaineers says it donates free homepage redesigns to positive-impact organizations. That's potentially useful if you don't need a full rebuild. Digital Mountaineers
• Sh oogys says it provides one nonprofit each year with complimentary consulting and web development, plus discounted ongoing support. Shoogys
• Fire & Cloud Consulting has a "Spark Program" where one verified 501(c)(3) per quarter gets a complete website build with no build cost; the nonprofit pays hosting. Fire and Cloud Consulting
• Ark40 Consulting has a pro-bono technology program specifically for small nonprofits, including web development. Ark40 Consulting
• NPO Web Development describes itself as a nonprofit providing free website design and other digital services to under-resourced nonprofits through volunteers. NPO Web Development

One more Chicago option I'd consider

Nonprofit Megaphone is nonprofit-specific, although I'd view them more as a digital marketing/fundraising partner than my first choice for the actual redesign. If your website problem is tied to donations, Google Ad Grants, SEO, or supporter acquisition, they could be useful.

And Beth Interactive is worth considering if fundraising/donor conversion is the central purpose of the redesign; they specialize in nonprofit digital fundraising and donor journeys.

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send the same short project brief to 5 organizations, rather than spending weeks talking to one:

1. Crescendo Studios — ask for the nonprofit discount/pro-bono program.
2. Lorien Web — ask for their nonprofit rate.
3. Windy City Web Solutions — ask for a budget-conscious WordPress redesign proposal.
4. Peak Digital — get the 501(c)(3) discounted quote.
5. LimeRed — particularly if you're considering a deeper brand/messaging overhaul.

Then I'd separately apply to Fire & Cloud, Digital Mountaineers, Ark40, and Sh oogys for the possibility of free work.

One caution: I wouldn't lead with "we need a new website." I'd give them a very specific problem: our current site is hard to navigate, doesn't communicate our impact, has poor mobile UX, and makes it difficult to donate/get services/volunteer. That makes it much easier for an agency to decide whether your project fits its pro-bono program.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate annual budget, current website, what you dislike about it, and your target budget (even "$0–$5K"), I can narrow this to 3–4 agencies and give you the exact people/pages to contact plus a tailored outreach email.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than approaching a conventional agency and hoping they’ll discount the work.

Here’s the shortlist I’d use for a small Chicago nonprofit:

My top targets

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — best if you want strategy + design + a serious nonprofit partner

LimeRed is particularly relevant because it focuses on purpose-driven organizations and nonprofits and does the whole range: research, messaging, accessibility/SEO, UX, WordPress, integrations, and maintenance.

Why I'd contact them: If this is more than a cosmetic redesign—e.g., you need to clarify your story, improve navigation, make the site accessible, and improve donor/volunteer conversion—they're a strong fit.

2. Firebelly Design — best pro-bono possibility

Firebelly has an unusually concrete giving program: its Grant for Good provides a nonprofit with a year of free design services. Its client history also includes major foundations and Chicago-area mission-driven organizations.

Why I'd contact them: If you can make a compelling case for your mission and the potential community impact, this is one of the first places I'd investigate for genuinely donated work.

3. Orbit Media Studios — best established Chicago agency with a demonstrated pro-bono track record

Orbit says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits through its Chicago Cause pro-bono website program, including a full redesign for Chicago CRED. Orbit Media Studios Their nonprofit practice is still active, and they specifically say they tailor projects to budget constraints. Orbit Media Studios

Why I'd contact them: This is probably the strongest combination of Chicago nonprofit experience + sophisticated web expertise + actual history of pro-bono work.

4. Crescendo Studios — best clearly stated discount

Crescendo explicitly sets aside time every year for nonprofit work. Qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects taken entirely pro bono. They specifically accept website design/development projects and say they review applications within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

Why I'd contact them: If your budget is, say, $2k–$10k rather than literally $0, this could be a particularly good avenue.

5. JKoncept — good if you're established enough to meet their eligibility requirements

Their Koncept for Good program offers up to 30% off web design/build and 50% off branding. There are eligibility requirements, including operating for at least a year and having at least two full-time employees, and they have limited spots. JKoncept

Why I'd contact them: Especially compelling if the website redesign also needs a branding/messaging component.

Also worth contacting

• Advocate Creative — nonprofit/foundation-focused creative agency offering branding and website work. I'd ask specifically about reduced-rate engagements.
• Bark Design — Chicago studio with a strong mission-driven/nonprofit and cultural-sector orientation; potentially a better fit than a large agency if you're a small organization.
• Statement — Oak Park rather than Chicago proper, but their nonprofit work emphasizes working within the client's budget and giving options to control scope.
• Lorien Web — a small studio specifically offering discounted rates to qualifying nonprofits, churches, and community organizations. The smaller-studio model may be especially appropriate if you don't need a giant agency. Lorien Web
• Peak Digital — explicitly offers nonprofits a standing 15% discount and handles web design, donor communications, SEO, and ongoing support. Peak Digital Studio

One option I'd investigate if you're in the western suburbs

TechForChange is especially interesting if your nonprofit is in Chicago's western suburbs. They say they provide websites and other technology projects at no cost, using professional volunteers, specifically for small nonprofits in that geographic area. TechForChange

Who I'd contact first

If it were my project, I'd send essentially the same brief to Orbit, LimeRed, Firebelly, and Crescendo and see who responds.

I'd rank them:

One important point: don't pitch this as simply "we need a new website." For pro-bono/discounted programs, you'll have much better luck with a concise impact + scope + budget story:

We're a small 501(c)(3) serving [community]. Our current website is [problem], which makes it difficult for people to [donate/get services/volunteer/understand our work]. We're looking for a redesign that would accomplish [3 outcomes]. Our available budget is $X, although we're actively seeking a pro-bono or substantially discounted partner. We can provide [staff time/content/photos/etc.] and have a target launch of [date].

If you tell me what the nonprofit does, your approximate annual budget, current website, and what you can spend on the redesign ($0 / <$5k / $5–15k / etc.), I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually approach and give you the right person/contact route for each.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

1. Crescendo Studios — first call if you want genuinely discounted/pro-bono work

They explicitly reserve time every year for nonprofits, offer up to 50% off standard rates, and take some projects fully pro bono. Their nonprofit program specifically covers web design/development, and they say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

Best for: a small nonprofit that needs a polished redesign but has a very limited budget.

2. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — probably my favorite Chicago-specific agency to approach

They're a Chicago design agency focused heavily on nonprofits, social enterprises, and social impact, with experience spanning branding, messaging and digital experiences. They also have offerings aimed at smaller nonprofits.

Best for: a nonprofit where the website needs to clarify the mission/story as much as it needs a technical redesign.

3. Orbit Media — strongest proven Chicago nonprofit track record

Orbit says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits through its Chicago Cause pro-bono website program, including a complete redesign for Chicago CRED. That's unusually strong evidence that they actually know how to work with nonprofits rather than simply having a nonprofit page on their website. Orbit Media Studios

Best for: a more substantial redesign where strategy, SEO, content and conversion matter. I'd specifically ask whether your organization could qualify for Chicago Cause or another reduced-cost engagement.

4. Advocate Creative — good fit for nonprofit communications

They're Chicago-based and specifically focus on branding/design for nonprofits and foundations, including website design and development. Their nonprofit experience spans areas like education, environment, health, arts and community development.

Best for: an organization whose website problem is partly a messaging/brand problem.

5. Bark Design — interesting smaller-studio option

Bark is a Chicago design studio working with mission-driven organizations and has experience across nonprofit, education and cultural organizations, including web projects.

Best for: a smaller organization that wants a thoughtful design partner rather than a big agency process.

If your budget is really tight

I'd also contact these, even though they're not necessarily Chicago agencies:

• Ark40 Consulting explicitly provides free technology services to small nonprofits, including web development. Ark40 Consulting
• DayDream Technologies sets aside 100+ hours per quarter for nonprofit projects and offers both pro-bono and reduced-rate work, including website redesigns. DayDream Technologies
• 90five's Give-It-All program funds selected nonprofit projects at 100% pro bono, including websites, branding and strategy. They explicitly say no organization is too small. 90five

And there's a particularly intriguing option: NPO Web Development says it provides free website design and other digital services to under-resourced nonprofits through volunteers. NPO Web Development

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send inquiries in this order:

Crescendo → LimeRed → Orbit → Advocate Creative → Bark

The reason is that I wouldn't optimize for "best Chicago web agency." I'd optimize for excellent nonprofit work + willingness to work within a small nonprofit budget.

One thing I'd not do is lead with "Can you give us a free website?" Instead, give them a concrete scope and budget range. For example: "We're a small 501(c)(3), our current site is X years old, and we're looking for a redesign of approximately 15–25 pages, with improved mobile UX, donation flow, accessibility and an easy-to-manage CMS. Our available budget is $X–$Y. Do you have a nonprofit/pro-bono program or reduced-rate option?"

That makes it much easier for an agency to say yes, here's what we can do.

If you tell me the nonprofit's website, approximate annual budget, and what you're hoping to spend ($0 / <$5k / $5–15k / $15k+), I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually approach and find the right contact/application page for each.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Vera Creative - 935 W Chestnut St #650, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply asking a conventional agency to discount its normal rate.

My shortlist

• Firebelly Design — strongest “ask for pro bono” candidate. Firebelly has a long-running Grant for Good program through which it donates design services to a nonprofit each year. It also has substantial nonprofit/mission-driven experience and does UX, content strategy, accessibility, and web development. Clutch

I’d contact them first if your organization is a compelling candidate for a pro-bono project.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — strong fit for a mission-driven nonprofit. They're Chicago-based and specialize in branding, messaging, and digital experiences for nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations. This looks particularly good if the redesign needs to clarify your organization's story/positioning, not just modernize the visuals. Clutch
• Orbit Media — probably the most proven Chicago nonprofit pro-bono option. Their Chicago Cause program has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits with pro-bono websites, including a full redesign for Chicago CRED. Orbit Media Studios

I'd absolutely put them on the outreach list, though I'd expect selection to be competitive.

• Crescendo Studios — best clearly documented discounted option. Their nonprofit program says qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with some projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically accept website redesign/development projects and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

This is especially attractive if you have some budget but can't afford a typical agency engagement.

• Windy City Web Solutions — worth approaching for a smaller-budget project. They're a Chicago web shop focused on WordPress and explicitly work with nonprofits and small organizations. Current Chicago nonprofit rankings put them near the top for web design, with listed projects starting around $1,000. Clutch

I'd ask about a fixed-scope nonprofit package rather than simply asking for a discount.

• Bark Design — good if brand + website need to be reconsidered together. They're a Chicago mission-driven design studio with nonprofit, education, cultural, and civic experience, including website work. Clutch

One wildcard I'd investigate

Lorien Web isn't an agency in the traditional sense—it's a one-person studio—but that's potentially an advantage for a small nonprofit. They explicitly offer discounted rates to qualifying nonprofits, churches, and community organizations, with fixed proposals designed to be board-approvable. Lorien Web

There's also Ark40 Consulting, which advertises a genuine free technology program for small nonprofits, including web development. That's worth applying to if your budget is essentially $0. Ark40 Consulting

Who I'd contact first

If I were running a small Chicago nonprofit, my order would be:

1. Orbit Media — ask specifically about Chicago Cause/pro-bono eligibility.
2. Firebelly — ask about Grant for Good or other nonprofit assistance.
3. Crescendo Studios — apply for the nonprofit program; the up-to-50%-off offer is unusually explicit.
4. LimeRed — particularly if the redesign involves messaging/brand strategy.
5. Windy City Web Solutions — good candidate for a smaller paid/fixed-scope project.
6. Lorien Web / Ark40 — especially if you're very budget constrained.

One important caveat: pro bono doesn't necessarily mean they'll redesign the entire site for free. Often the organization has to be selected, the scope is limited, and you'll still need to supply content, photography, approvals, etc.

If you tell me (1) your nonprofit's mission, (2) approximate annual budget, (3) current website, and (4) what you can spend on the redesign—$0, <$5k, $5–10k, etc., I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies that are genuinely realistic for you and find the right contact/application page for each.

One important caveat: pro bono doesn't necessarily mean they'll redesign the entire site for free. Often the organization has to be selected, the scope is limited, and you'll still need to supply content, photography, approvals, etc.

• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Vera Creative - 935 W Chestnut St #650, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
• Greater Good Studio - 3759 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize small/mid-sized shops that explicitly work with nonprofits and have a discount or pro-bono mechanism, rather than starting with big Chicago agencies that may be excellent but expensive.

My shortlist

1. Crescendo Studios — probably the first one I’d contact if budget is the main constraint. They explicitly reserve time every year for nonprofits, offer up to 50% off standard rates, and take some projects pro bono. They specifically mention nonprofit websites, donation flows, volunteer signups, and event calendars. Crescendo Studios

crescendostudios.com

2. Ark40 Consulting — particularly interesting for a small nonprofit because they have a formal pro bono technology program offering free web development and technology consulting to small nonprofits. They only take a limited number each month, so I'd apply rather than just send a generic inquiry. Ark40 Consulting

ark40consulting.com

3. EDUCO Web Design — Oak Park rather than Chicago proper, but very close and worth contacting. They specifically say they offer special rates for nonprofits, and their work includes website strategy, design and development.
4. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — a particularly good fit if the redesign involves messaging/brand + website, not just making the existing site prettier. They're Chicago-based and specialize in purpose-driven organizations, especially nonprofits and social enterprises.
5. What A Great Website — worth a conversation if you want a smaller boutique shop rather than a traditional agency. They specifically work with small businesses and nonprofits and have nonprofit website-redesign experience.
6. Windy City Web Solutions — another practical option for a smaller organization. They're focused on WordPress websites for small businesses and nonprofits, including redesign, hosting and ongoing maintenance. Clutch currently lists them among its top Chicago-area nonprofit web-design firms, with projects starting below $10K. Clutch
7. Bark Design — I'd consider them if the nonprofit has a strong community/arts/education/advocacy orientation and wants the website to be part of a broader communications refresh. Their Chicago studio works extensively with mission-driven organizations and does strategy, web, UX/UI and information architecture.

If I were making the calls

I'd start with Crescendo → Ark40 → EDUCO → LimeRed.

The first two are the strongest bets if you're genuinely looking for free or substantially discounted work. Crescendo actually advertises a 50% discount/pro-bono pathway, while Ark40 has a dedicated free-services program. Crescendo Studios Ark40 Consulting

If you have some budget and want a more substantial redesign, I'd put LimeRed, EDUCO, and Windy City into the mix.

One useful benchmark: Clutch's current Chicago nonprofit listings show some agencies starting around $1K–$10K+, while others are $25K–$50K+, so being very explicit about your nonprofit budget will save you a lot of wasted conversations. Clutch

What I'd send them

Don't just ask, "Do you do pro bono work?" Give them enough information to decide whether you're a good candidate:

We're a small Chicago nonprofit looking to redesign our website. We're looking for a partner who has experience working with nonprofits and would be open to pro-bono, discounted, or otherwise mission-aligned pricing. Our current site is [URL], and we'd like to improve [3 biggest problems]. Our approximate budget is [$X], and we're hoping to launch by [date]. We'd be happy to provide our nonprofit status, goals, sitemap, and current analytics. Would this be a project your team might consider?

If you tell me the nonprofit's mission, approximate annual budget, current website, and what you can afford for the redesign (even if that's $0), I can narrow this to the 3–5 Chicago agencies I'd actually approach and find the right contact/application pages for each.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Zora Digital - WeWork, 20 W Kinzie St 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Access Direct Nonprofit Marketing - 209 Des Plaines Ave, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Yes. I’d focus on agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply asking a normal agency for a discount. I found several Chicago options that look particularly promising.

My shortlist

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — probably my first call

• Chicago-based, with a strong focus on nonprofits and other purpose-driven organizations.
• Does the whole redesign spectrum: research, accessibility, information architecture, UX/UI, WordPress, integrations, SEO/content strategy and ongoing maintenance.
• Particularly good choice if the problem is bigger than "our website looks dated" and you need help clarifying the site's structure and messaging.
• Ask: whether they have a nonprofit rate, pro-bono availability, or a smaller phased engagement.
• Firebelly Design — strongest pro-bono lead

• They have a long-running Grant for Good program through which they donate design services to a nonprofit each year. Their work includes web strategy, UX, accessibility and development.
• This is worth approaching even if their regular agency work is outside your budget.
• Ask specifically about the next Grant for Good cycle and whether they accept smaller nonprofit projects outside the annual grant.
• Orbit Media Studios — excellent if you can get into their nonprofit pipeline

• Their nonprofit practice is substantial, and they explicitly tailor projects to nonprofit budgets.
• More importantly, Orbit created Chicago Cause, through which it has donated more than $700,000 in web design, digital marketing and SEO services to Chicago nonprofits. Orbit Media Studios B Corporation
• This would be my call if you want a sophisticated strategy/SEO-oriented redesign and have a compelling mission.
• Crescendo Studios — unusually good fit for a small nonprofit

• This one jumped out at me because they explicitly offer up to 50% off standard rates, with selected projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically mention website work and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios
• They even ask for budgets in the $0–$5,000 range, which suggests they're accustomed to working with genuinely small organizations.
• I'd contact them immediately.
• Windy City Web Solutions — best lower-budget conventional option

• Local Chicago web shop focused on WordPress, including nonprofit sites.
• Current Chicago nonprofit rankings show projects starting around $1,000+, and their reviews specifically include nonprofit website work. Clutch
• I would ask for a small, fixed-scope redesign rather than a large agency engagement.
• What A Great Website — worth approaching for a smaller redesign

• Boutique Chicago studio specifically serving small businesses and nonprofits.
• Their positioning is more "make the website actually work for you" than large-enterprise agency, which could be a good fit for a small nonprofit.
• Mightybytes — excellent mission-driven agency, but I'd treat it as a stretch option

• Chicago-based Certified B Corp with extensive work for nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations. B Corporation Mightybytes
• Particularly compelling if accessibility, sustainability, or sophisticated digital strategy matters.
• I'd ask whether they have any pro-bono/community-impact capacity rather than assuming they will be inexpensive.

One I'd especially investigate

Ark40 Consulting is also worth a look if you're a small nonprofit. They currently advertise a free technology services program specifically for small nonprofits, including web development and strategic technology consulting. Ark40 Consulting

That may be an even better match than a traditional design agency if your redesign involves things like donation systems, forms, automation, CRM integration, or making your internal tech less painful.

If I were you, I'd contact these five first

Crescendo → Firebelly → LimeRed → Orbit → Ark40

That's a good mix of:

• genuinely free/pro-bono possibilities
• nonprofit-specific experience
• smaller-budget options
• sophisticated website strategy
• actual Chicago nonprofit track record

What I'd say when reaching out

Don't just say "We're a small nonprofit and need a website." Give them enough information to decide quickly whether they can help:

We're a small 501(c)(3) looking for a website redesign. Our current site is [URL], and our main goals are [2–3 goals]. We're working with a budget of approximately [$X], although we're specifically looking for pro-bono, discounted, or nonprofit-program opportunities. We're hoping to launch by [date]. Would this be a project your team might consider?

If you give me your nonprofit's website URL, approximate budget (even "$0–$5k"), and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually recommend contacting first, including who at each agency to approach and what to say.

Don't just say "We're a small nonprofit and need a website." Give them enough information to decide quickly whether they can help:

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Fuzzy Math - 1440 N Dayton, Ste 307, Chicago, IL 60642
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Digital Marketers Chicago - 2835 N Sheffield Ave #209, Chicago, IL 60657, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Kym Abrams Design - 213 W Institute Pl, Ste 608, Chicago, IL 60610

For a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d focus less on “big-name agencies” and more on firms that either (a) already understand nonprofit constraints, (b) have a stated pro bono/discount program, or (c) have done mission-driven redesigns. Here are the ones I’d put near the top of your outreach list:

Best fits for pro bono / discounted nonprofit website redesigns

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc.

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 312-238-9070)

Why reach out: Strong nonprofit and social-impact orientation. They do branding, UX, messaging, and websites—not just visual design.
Best for: A nonprofit that needs strategy help: clarifying its story, improving donor journeys, reorganizing content, and redesigning the site.

Ask for:

• nonprofit pricing
• a reduced-scope engagement (homepage + key pages)
• a pro bono/community partnership possibility

2. Fuzzy Math

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+18665634650)

Why reach out: They have a documented pro bono nonprofit website redesign example with UCAN, including UX strategy, information architecture, and donation-focused improvements. Fuzzy Math
Best for: Organizations where the website needs a major usability overhaul.

3. Firebelly Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-489-3200)

Why reach out: Chicago studio with nonprofit experience and a history of donating design services through its “Grant for Good” initiative.
Best for: Nonprofits needing brand + website alignment, not just a technical rebuild.

4. Advocate Creative

DirectionsWebsite

Why reach out: Focuses on nonprofit and foundation communications, including website design/development and digital strategy.
Best for: Advocacy, education, arts, community development, and foundation-style nonprofits.

5. Digital Marketers Chicago

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 312-626-7445)

Why reach out: Explicit nonprofit focus and offers free homepage redesigns through its program; also highlights work with mission-driven organizations. Digital Mountaineers
Best for: A smaller organization that may not have budget for a full agency engagement.

6. Crescendo Studios

Why reach out: They explicitly reserve time for nonprofit projects, offering up to 50% discounts and selecting some projects for pro bono work. Crescendo Studios
Best for: Smaller nonprofits needing a practical website build, photography, branding, or related creative support.

More affordable / nonprofit-friendly options

• Windy City Web Solutions — more web-development-focused; a possible fit if you mainly need a WordPress redesign, maintenance, or migration rather than a full brand strategy project.
• Bark Design — mission-driven design studio with nonprofit, education, and community organization experience.
• Beth Interactive — especially worth considering if fundraising, donor journeys, and digital engagement are central goals.

How I’d approach them

Small nonprofits often get better responses if you don’t ask only “can you donate a website?” Instead, send:

1. Your mission (2–3 sentences)
2. Current website URL
3. What’s broken (examples: confusing navigation, low donations, outdated design, inaccessible, hard for staff to update)
4. Your budget range (even if it’s $0–$5k)
5. Whether you can offer: - a board-approved testimonial/case study
6. logo placement/credit
7. volunteer participation
8. flexible timeline

A good first email subject:

“Chicago nonprofit seeking website redesign partner / possible pro bono collaboration”

If you tell me the nonprofit’s size, mission area (arts, youth, housing, health, etc.), current website platform (WordPress/Wix/etc.), and budget, I can narrow this to the 5–6 agencies most likely to say yes.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Designs 4 Dignity - 445 N Wells St, Suite 402, Chicago, IL 60654
• Greater Good Studio - 3759 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
• LIMIT8 | Nonprofit Web Design Experts - 350 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10025, United States
• Designs for Dignity - 4311 S Western Blvd, Chicago, IL 60609, United States

Yes. I’d focus on agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply asking a normal agency to “give you a nonprofit discount.” I found several Chicago options that look particularly promising.

My shortlist

• Firebelly Design — strongest pro-bono track record.

Firebelly is a Chicago creative agency with substantial nonprofit experience, including web/UX work, and its “Grant for Good” program has provided donated design services to a different nonprofit each year since 2004. This would be my first outreach if your organization is a good candidate for a larger pro-bono engagement. Flamingo Agency
firebellydesign.com

• Crescendo Studios — probably the best fit for a small nonprofit with an actual budget.

They explicitly reserve time for nonprofits, offer up to 50% off standard rates, and take some projects completely pro bono. Their program specifically includes website design/development, and they say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios
crescendostudios.com

• Windy City Web Solutions — worth contacting if you're looking for a smaller, more budget-conscious web shop.

They're Chicago-based and specifically work with small nonprofits, with WordPress design, hosting, maintenance, accessibility and SEO. Current Chicago web-design rankings also put them among the lower-cost options, with projects listed starting around $1,000. Clutch Clutch
windycitywebsolutions.com

• Fuzzy Math — excellent candidate for a pro-bono ask, especially if the redesign is UX-heavy.

They have a very relevant Chicago precedent: they did a pro-bono website redesign for UCAN Chicago, specifically improving information architecture, engagement and online donations. Their site still invites organizations to recommend/propose pro-bono partnerships. Fuzzy Math Fuzzy Math
fuzzymath.com

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — good if you need strategy + branding + website, rather than just development.

They're particularly focused on nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, with branding, messaging and digital experience work. I'd ask specifically whether they have capacity for a reduced-rate nonprofit engagement. limered.io

• Advocate Creative — another strong nonprofit-specialist option.

Their work spans nonprofit branding, communications, websites and microsites. This could be particularly useful if your website problems are partly a messaging/positioning problem, not just an outdated design.

• Bark Design — interesting smaller Chicago studio.

They're focused on mission-driven organizations and combine strategy, communications, branding, print and web. I'd put them on the list for a personal, smaller-studio approach.

One I'd contact immediately

Crescendo Studios is the clearest match to exactly what you asked for: small nonprofit + website redesign + discounted/pro-bono possibility. Their application even asks for an estimated budget of $0–$5,000, so they're clearly accustomed to organizations operating at that scale. Crescendo Studios

I'd send applications/outreach to Crescendo, Firebelly, Fuzzy Math, and Windy City Web Solutions simultaneously rather than waiting on one.

There's also a potentially useful non-agency route: Compass Pro Bono Chicago connects nonprofits with business professionals for pro-bono consulting and has served 160 Chicago nonprofits, with $16M in reported pro-bono services. It may be especially useful for getting help defining the website project before approaching a designer. Compass Pro Bono
compassprobono.org

What I'd say when you reach out

Don't lead with “Can you redesign our website for free?” Instead, give them a very concrete project:

We're a small Chicago nonprofit looking to redesign our website to improve [donations/program enrollment/volunteer recruitment/etc.]. We're a 501(c)(3) with a limited budget of approximately $X. We're looking for a partner who might be able to offer pro-bono or substantially discounted design/development. We can provide [existing content/brand assets/staff time] and are hoping to launch by [date].

If you tell me the nonprofit's mission, approximate annual budget, current website, and what you can spend (even if that's $0), I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies I'd actually approach first, including the right person/contact route and a tailored outreach message.

• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Studio Blue - 800 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60622
• Osmo Web Agency, LLC - 7427 S South Shore Dr #4K, Chicago, IL 60649, United States

For a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d prioritize agencies that either already work with nonprofits, have a mission-driven discount/pro bono program, or are small enough that a reduced-scope project is realistic. A full agency website redesign can easily run $10k–$50k+, so the best fit is often a studio that will right-size the scope. Clutch

Here are some Chicago-area groups I’d put on your outreach list:

Strong nonprofit / mission-driven fits

Advocate Creative

DirectionsWebsite

Good fit if you need more than a facelift—e.g., brand messaging, storytelling, donor communications, and a website that explains your impact. They specifically focus on nonprofits and foundations.

Reach out for:

• Website redesign + messaging strategy
• Nonprofit storytelling
• Brand refresh

Firebelly Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-489-3200)

A respected Chicago design studio with a history of nonprofit work. They run a “Grant for Good” initiative that has provided donated design services to nonprofits.

Reach out for:

• A high-impact redesign
• Brand + website alignment
• Accessibility and UX improvements

Sandstorm Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-348-4200)

Better suited for organizations with more complex needs (donor journeys, accessibility, integrations, larger content ecosystems).

Reach out for:

• Strategic redesign
• UX research
• Accessibility improvements

More budget-friendly / small nonprofit-friendly options

Windy City Web Solutions

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 847-801-9482)

A Chicago-based web design shop that works with small organizations and nonprofits, including WordPress builds and ongoing support.

Reach out for:

• WordPress redesign
• Smaller-budget rebuilds
• Maintenance after launch

Bark Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+17735397185)

A Chicago studio with mission-driven organization experience across branding, communications, and digital work.

Reach out for:

• A nonprofit brand refresh + website
• Improving clarity of messaging

Organizations with explicit nonprofit discounts/pro bono programs

crescendostudios.com

They state they reserve capacity for nonprofit work, offering discounts and some pro bono projects. Crescendo Studios

peakdigitalstudio.com

They offer discounted nonprofit website/design services (including a stated discount for eligible 501(c)(3)s). Peak Digital Studio

designtlc.com

They select nonprofit organizations for pro bono website services and may offer discounted nonprofit projects. Design TLC

My suggested outreach order for a small nonprofit

1. Advocate Creative — if your biggest challenge is explaining your mission and impact.
2. Windy City Web Solutions — if budget and maintainability are the priorities.
3. Bark Design — if you need a thoughtful design refresh without a huge-agency process.
4. Firebelly Design — if you might qualify for a pro bono opportunity or have a compelling mission.
5. Crescendo Studios / Design TLC / Peak Digital — apply specifically for nonprofit pricing.

When you contact them, don’t just ask “can you redesign our website?” Send:

• your current URL
• your mission statement
• number of pages you need
• must-have features (donations, events, volunteer signup, newsletter, accessibility)
• your budget range (even if it’s “under $5k”)
• whether you’re a 501(c)(3)

That makes it much easier for a studio to say yes or propose a smaller scope.

I can also help you draft a short Chicago agency outreach email/RFP that is likely to get responses.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Taproot - 100 S State St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Designs 4 Dignity - 445 N Wells St, Suite 402, Chicago, IL 60654
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• LIMIT8 | Nonprofit Web Design Experts - 350 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10025, United States
• Meyer Partners - 8745 W Higgins Rd Suite 110, Chicago, IL 60631, United States
• Civic Consulting Alliance - 190 S LaSalle St 39th Floor, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize small/mid-sized studios that explicitly have a nonprofit discount or pro-bono program, rather than starting with big Chicago agencies whose nonprofit work is excellent but likely expensive.

My shortlist

• Crescendo Studios — probably the first place I’d contact. They explicitly reserve capacity for nonprofits, offering up to 50% off standard rates and select projects pro bono. Their nonprofit work includes web design/development, donation flows, volunteer signups, and event calendars. They say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

crescendostudios.com

• Firebelly Design — a strong Chicago option if you want something more strategic/design-forward. Their Grant for Good has historically donated design services to a nonprofit each year, and their capabilities include UX, accessibility, content strategy, and web development. Firebelly Design Windy City Web Solutions

firebellydesign.com

• Taproot Foundation — I'd investigate this before paying an agency. Taproot connects nonprofits with skilled professionals for pro-bono projects, including design/creative and website-related work. Taproot

taprootfoundation.org

• TechForChange — particularly interesting if you're a small nonprofit in the Chicago western suburbs. They explicitly build websites and other technology for nonprofits at no cost, using volunteer professionals. TechForChange

techforchange-il.com

• Lorien Web — not an agency in the traditional sense; it's a small studio specifically focused on nonprofits and community organizations. They offer discounted mission-aligned rates, fixed-price scopes, accessibility, and maintainable sites. This could be a very good fit if you don't need a giant rebrand. Lorien Web

lorienweb.com

• Windy City Web Solutions — worth getting a quote from if you want a practical WordPress redesign. They specifically market to Chicago nonprofits and emphasize working directly with the developer rather than paying for layers of agency overhead. Windy City Web Solutions Windy City Web Solutions

One I would especially look at

Advocate Creative is a Chicago agency whose work is heavily oriented toward nonprofits and foundations. If your redesign needs to involve messaging, brand positioning, fundraising communications, and the website together, I'd put them on the list. They're probably a better candidate for a substantial strategic redesign than a simple "make our old WordPress site look better" project.

If your budget is basically $0

I'd approach these in this order:

1. Crescendo Studios — explicit pro-bono/50%-off nonprofit program.
2. Taproot Foundation — pursue a pro-bono professional.
3. TechForChange — especially if you're in the western suburbs.
4. Firebelly's Grant for Good — worth asking about current grant availability.
5. Then get 2–3 discounted quotes from smaller studios.

I'd avoid leading with "Can you redesign our website for free?" Instead, give them a tight project brief: current site, what isn't working, 5–10 priority pages, desired launch date, approximate budget, and whether you're a 501(c)(3). That makes it much easier for an agency to say yes to a reduced-scope project.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget (e.g. $0 / $2–5k / $5–10k / $10–25k), what the current website is built on (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, etc.), and what kind of nonprofit you are, I can narrow this to the 3 Chicago shops I'd actually contact first and find the right contact/application pages.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Paul Gregory Media - 200 E 5th Ave, Ste 105, Naperville, IL 60563
• Paul Gregory Media - 50 S Main St Suit 200, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• The Loop Marketing Inc - 159 N Sangamon St Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

• Firebelly Design — Chicago

• Best pro-bono lead if your organization is a strong fit.
• Their Grant for Good program has donated design services to a nonprofit each year since 2004. Their capabilities include UX, web design/development, accessibility, content strategy, and CMS work.
• I'd contact them and specifically ask whether the current year's grant is open, or whether they have discounted nonprofit capacity.
• Crescendo Studios

• Probably my first outreach for a small nonprofit that actually has a modest budget.
• They explicitly offer up to 50% off standard rates, with selected projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically mention website design, donation flows, volunteer signups, and event calendars. Crescendo Studios
• Their application says they review requests within 48 hours.
• Advocate Creative — Chicago

• Worth approaching if the redesign needs messaging/brand strategy as well as the website.
• They're Chicago-based and specifically focused on nonprofits and foundations, including nonprofit website projects.
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — Chicago

• A particularly good candidate if you need a serious UX/accessibility/information-architecture redesign, rather than just a prettier WordPress site.
• They work with purpose-driven organizations and offer web strategy, UX/UI, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, integrations, etc.
• I'd ask directly about nonprofit pricing or pro-bono availability.
• Statement — Oak Park

• Interesting smaller-agency option. They position themselves specifically around nonprofits and mission-driven organizations and emphasize working within constrained nonprofit budgets.
• Bark Design — Chicago

• Mission-driven Chicago studio with experience across nonprofit, education, and cultural organizations. Could be a good fit if you want a smaller, relationship-oriented shop rather than a big agency.

Also worth trying if "free" matters more than "Chicago"

There are a few programs I'd put on the same outreach list even though they're not necessarily Chicago agencies:

• Ark40 Consulting explicitly provides free web development and technology services to small nonprofits, taking on a limited number each month. Ark40 Consulting
• NPO Web Development is a 501(c)(3) that provides free website design, hosting, SEO, marketing, and cybersecurity to under-resourced nonprofits through volunteers. NPO Web Development
• Digital Mountaineers says it donates free homepage redesigns to positive-impact organizations. Digital Mountaineers
• AMA Design Agency currently advertises five free custom 5-page nonprofit websites per month, including organizations that already have an outdated website and need a redesign. Free Websites for Nonprofits

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send inquiries in this order:

1. Crescendo Studios — strongest combination of explicit discount/pro-bono commitment + website capability.
2. Firebelly Design — best potential pro-bono opportunity, though likely more competitive.
3. Advocate Creative — especially if the website needs a messaging/brand rethink.
4. LimeRed Studio — especially if accessibility, UX, content structure, or integrations are major issues.
5. Statement — potentially a good smaller-budget/mission-driven fit.

I wouldn't lead with the biggest Chicago agencies. For a small nonprofit, a boutique agency with an explicit nonprofit program is much more likely to give you meaningful attention and a realistic price.

What I'd say when reaching out

Don't just say "we need a website redesign." Give them enough information to quickly decide whether you're a fit:

We're a small nonprofit looking to redesign our existing website. We're hoping to improve the site's messaging, navigation, mobile experience, accessibility, and ability to convert visitors into donors/volunteers/supporters. Our nonprofit has a limited budget of approximately $X, and we're interested in whether you offer pro-bono or discounted nonprofit engagements. We can provide our current website, a brief overview of our goals, and our approximate timeline.

One important tactic: tell them your actual budget. If you have $3,000, say $3,000. If you have $0–$1,000 and are hoping for donated work, say that. Agencies with nonprofit programs can usually tell you very quickly whether they can make that work.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget (e.g. $0, $2–5k, $5–10k), what the organization does, and your current website, I can narrow this to 3–5 Chicago agencies that are the best fit and give you the specific person/contact page I'd approach at each one.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Greater Good Studio - 3759 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Paul Gregory Media - 50 S Main St Suit 200, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Paul Gregory Media - 200 E 5th Ave, Ste 105, Naperville, IL 60563
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
• TLO Web Designs - 9109 S Paxton Ave, Chicago, IL 60617, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Bigmouth Creative LLC - 4430 N Clifton Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Third Coast Creative | 3CC - 235 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

For a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d prioritize agencies that either already work with mission-driven organizations, have a nonprofit discount/pro bono program, or are small enough to be flexible on scope. A full agency redesign can easily run $10k–$50k+, so it’s worth asking specifically for a nonprofit rate, phased engagement, or donated strategy hours. Clutch

Here are the ones I’d put near the top of your outreach list:

Best bets for pro bono, discounted, or nonprofit-friendly work

Firebelly Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-489-3200)

Why reach out: They have a long-standing nonprofit orientation and a “Grant for Good” program that has provided donated design services to nonprofits.
Good fit for: A nonprofit that needs more than a prettier website—brand clarity, storytelling, UX, accessibility, and donor/advocate journeys.
Ask for: Whether they have nonprofit grant availability, reduced-rate engagements, or referrals to smaller partners.

Advocate Creative

DirectionsWebsite

Why reach out: They focus specifically on communications for nonprofits and foundations.
Good fit for: Advocacy groups, foundations, community organizations, and nonprofits that need messaging + website strategy.

Bark Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-539-7185)

Why reach out: A smaller Chicago studio with a mission-driven positioning and nonprofit/cultural-sector experience.
Good fit for: Smaller nonprofits that want a thoughtful redesign without a huge agency process.

Greater Good Studio

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-599-9717)

Why reach out: They specialize in human-centered design for social-sector organizations.
Good fit for: Organizations doing community work that need user research, clearer services, or a strategy-led redesign.

More affordable / practical redesign partners

Windy City Web Solutions

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 847-801-9482)

Why reach out: They focus on WordPress websites and smaller organizations; reviews and listings emphasize nonprofit and budget-conscious work. Clutch
Good fit for: A nonprofit that mostly needs a modern, maintainable website rather than a full brand overhaul.

Paul Gregory Media

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 630-216-9010)

Why reach out: They have nonprofit/purpose-driven experience and have been recognized for nonprofit website redesign work. Clutch
Good fit for: Organizations that also need SEO, campaigns, content, or digital marketing support.

Sandstorm Design

DirectionsWebsite[Call](tel:+1 773-348-4200)

Why reach out: A more established UX/web agency with experience in purpose-driven organizations and accessibility-focused work.
Good fit for: Larger nonprofits or organizations with more complex needs.

Free / volunteer-oriented options

digitalmountaineers.com

They advertise free homepage redesigns for qualifying “positive impact” organizations. Digital Mountaineers

techforchange-il.com

A Chicago-area nonprofit that connects volunteer tech talent with nonprofits for pro bono technology projects, including websites and digital tools. TechForChange

How I’d approach them

Don’t send a generic “we need a website.” Send a short nonprofit brief:

• Organization mission + who you serve
• Current website URL
• What’s wrong today (hard to update, outdated, poor mobile experience, unclear donations, etc.)
• Desired launch timeline
• Budget range (even if small: “$0–$5k,” “$5k–$15k,” etc.)
• Ask: “Do you offer nonprofit rates, pro bono opportunities, or phased engagements?”

A strong first email subject line:

Nonprofit website redesign inquiry — seeking nonprofit partner/pricing options

If you tell me the nonprofit’s size, budget range, current website platform (WordPress/Squarespace/etc.), and whether you need branding too, I can narrow this to the 3–5 most realistic choices.

digitalmountaineers.com

They advertise free homepage redesigns for qualifying “positive impact” organizations. digitalmountaineers.com

techforchange-il.com

A Chicago-area nonprofit that connects volunteer tech talent with nonprofits for pro bono technology projects, including websites and digital tools. techforchange-il.com

How I’d approach them

Don’t send a generic “we need a website.” Send a short nonprofit brief:

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Taproot - 100 S State St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Geek Empowered - Chicago, IL 60621
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Three Communication Design - 4507 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste 105, Chicago, IL 60640
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Meyer Partners - 8745 W Higgins Rd Suite 110, Chicago, IL 60631, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize organizations that explicitly have a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than approaching a general Chicago agency and hoping they’ll discount their rate.

My shortlist

1. Crescendo Studios — first call for a genuinely small-budget nonprofit

They explicitly reserve capacity for nonprofits, offering up to 50% off and selected projects pro bono. Their nonprofit work includes web design/development, and they specifically mention donation flows, volunteer signups, and event calendars. They say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

crescendostudios.com

2. Firebelly Design — excellent Chicago option if you can compete for pro bono

Firebelly Design is a Chicago design agency with substantial nonprofit experience. Its Grant for Good program has historically donated design services to a nonprofit each year, so I'd contact them specifically asking about the current year's availability rather than assuming a slot is open. Their work covers web strategy, UX, accessibility, content strategy and development.

3. LimeRed Studio — strongest fit for a mission-driven redesign

LimeRed Studio, Inc. is particularly interesting if this is more than a visual facelift. They work with purpose-driven organizations and combine branding, messaging, UX, accessibility, SEO, WordPress and integrations. I would ask whether they have a nonprofit/community rate or pro-bono capacity.

4. Taproot — best route if your budget is essentially $0

Taproot isn't an agency you'd hire in the normal sense. It's a nonprofit that connects nonprofits with skilled pro-bono volunteers, including design/creative and technology help. For a small nonprofit, I'd pursue this in parallel with agency outreach.

5. Peak Digital — good if you have some budget

They advertise a standing 15% nonprofit discount and specifically offer website design/development, donation integrations and ongoing support for small nonprofit teams. Peak Digital Studio

peakdigitalstudio.com

6. Koncept for Good — worth applying if you meet their eligibility

Their program offers up to 30% off web design/build and 50% off branding. They focus on mission-driven nonprofits in areas including education, environment, social services and other community-impact work. There are eligibility requirements, including being operational for at least a year and having at least two full-time employees. JKoncept

jkoncept.com

One I'd approach differently

Advocate Creative looks like a very good Chicago nonprofit/foundation specialist for a substantial redesign. Their work appears particularly strong around nonprofit messaging, brand strategy and websites. I don't see equally clear evidence of a standing nonprofit discount, though, so I'd approach them if you have a modest budget rather than expecting pro bono work.

For a more UX/accessibility-heavy project, Sandstorm Design is another Chicago agency I'd put on the list, although I'd expect them to be considerably more expensive than the small-studio options.

If I were making the calls

I'd do this in order:

Crescendo → Firebelly → Taproot → LimeRed → Peak Digital → Koncept for Good

And I'd send essentially the same one-page project brief to all of them:

• Who the nonprofit serves
• Current website URL
• What is wrong with the current site
• What the redesign needs to accomplish
• Approximate number of pages
• CMS preference, if any
• Whether you need donations, events, forms, CRM integration, etc.
• Accessibility requirements
• Your actual available budget, even if it's $0–$5k
• Desired launch date
• Whether you can provide copy/photos internally

One especially important point: don't just ask, "Do you do pro bono work?" Ask "Do you have a nonprofit/community program, discounted rate, pro-bono opening, or reduced-scope engagement available for a small 501(c)(3)?" That gives them several ways to say yes.

If you tell me the nonprofit's approximate budget (e.g. $0, $2–5k, $5–10k, $10k+) and what kind of organization it is, I can narrow this to the 3 Chicago agencies I'd contact first and give you a tailored outreach message.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Design & Promote - 1250 E Diehl Rd 306, Ste 306, Naperville, IL 60563
• eGuide Tech Allies - 405 W Superior St, Ste 409, Chicago, IL 60622
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• LIMIT8 | Nonprofit Web Design Experts - 350 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10025, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Web For Lesss - Chicago, IL 60651
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• ePageCity Inc. - 111 N Wabash Ave Ste 3023, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Yes. If you’re a small Chicago nonprofit and budget is a major constraint, I’d prioritize agencies with an actual track record of pro bono/discounted nonprofit work rather than simply agencies that say they work with nonprofits.

My shortlist

1. Firebelly Design — strongest pro-bono lead

• Chicago design agency with substantial nonprofit experience.
• Their Grant for Good program has historically donated design services to one nonprofit each year for an entire year.
• Their web capabilities include UX, content strategy, accessibility, responsive development, and CMS integration.
• Reach out if you're willing to pursue a grant/pro-bono opportunity rather than expecting a normal discounted engagement. Clutch
• Sandstorm Design — best for a sophisticated redesign

• Chicago-based, purpose-driven UX/web agency with nonprofit experience.
• Particularly attractive if the problem is bigger than visual design—e.g. confusing navigation, accessibility, poor mobile experience, or complicated content.
• Caveat: their typical projects appear considerably more expensive, so I'd specifically ask whether they have a nonprofit rate, pro-bono program, or smaller-scope engagement. Clutch
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — very good mission-driven fit

• Chicago agency focused on purpose-driven organizations.
• Offers branding, web design/development, messaging, UX, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, integrations, etc.
• I'd contact them and ask for a "small nonprofit / limited-budget redesign" rather than presenting it as a conventional agency RFP.
• Advocate Creative — worth approaching if messaging/brand is part of the problem

• Specifically focuses on nonprofits and foundations.
• Good fit if you need the website to clarify your mission, programs, impact, and calls to action—not merely get a visual facelift.
• They have nonprofit/foundation website examples in their portfolio.
• Orbit Media — particularly interesting because of Chicago Cause

• This is probably the first organization I'd investigate for true pro bono work.
• Orbit says its Chicago Cause initiative has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits with pro-bono website services, including a website redesign for Chicago CRED. Orbit Media Studios
• That's unusually strong evidence that they actually do this rather than merely having nonprofit clients.
• I'd ask specifically about the current application/selection process for Chicago Cause.
• Fuzzy Math — another proven pro-bono option

• They previously did a pro-bono website redesign for UCAN Chicago, focusing on information architecture, engagement, donations, and storytelling. Fuzzy Math
• I'd reach out and ask whether they currently have capacity for nonprofit/pro-bono engagements.

If you simply need someone affordable

There are also smaller shops where the economics may work better than a large agency:

• Design & Promote — Naperville rather than Chicago proper; business listings indicate experience with nonprofit/community organizations and discounted/pro-bono work.
• eGuide Tech Allies — Chicago-based and specifically oriented toward small organizations and emerging nonprofits; potentially a good choice if you need the website plus CRM/donor-system help.
• Lorien Web — a small studio explicitly offering discounted rates to qualifying nonprofits, with fixed-price proposals and an emphasis on maintainability for small teams. Lorien Web
• Peak Digital — explicitly offers a 15% nonprofit discount and nonprofit-focused web design/support. Peak Digital Studio

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd make these five outreach attempts, in this order:

1. Orbit Media → ask about Chicago Cause/pro-bono availability
2. Firebelly → ask about Grant for Good or other nonprofit assistance
3. Fuzzy Math → ask whether they currently accept pro-bono nonprofit redesigns
4. LimeRed → ask for a nonprofit/limited-budget scope
5. Advocate Creative → ask for a small nonprofit website engagement

I'd also get one quote from a small studio like Lorien so you have a realistic low-cost paid option if the pro-bono programs don't work out.

One important distinction: pro bono, discounted, and "nonprofit experienced" are three very different things. A $40k agency that gives you 15% off is still a $34k project. For a small nonprofit, I'd first pursue organizations with an actual pro-bono program, then look at small studios with explicit nonprofit pricing.

If you tell me (a) your nonprofit's approximate annual budget, (b) current website URL, (c) what you want to spend—$0 / <$5k / $5–10k / $10k+, and (d) what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3 Chicago agencies and give you the exact person/contact route I'd use for each.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Paul Gregory Media - 200 E 5th Ave, Ste 105, Naperville, IL 60563
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Osmo Web Agency, LLC - 7427 S South Shore Dr #4K, Chicago, IL 60649, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States

Yes. I’d focus less on “best Chicago web agencies” and more on firms that explicitly have nonprofit programs, nonprofit case studies, or a track record of working within small-org budgets.

My shortlist:

1. Firebelly Design — strongest pro-bono lead

• Chicago agency with substantial nonprofit/public-interest work.
• Their Grant for Good program has donated design services to a different nonprofit each year since 2004. Clutch
• They do UX, information architecture, accessibility, content strategy, and web development—not just visual design.
• Ask specifically about Grant for Good and whether the next application cycle is open.
• This would be my first outreach if your budget is extremely limited.
• Windy City Web Solutions — probably the best small-budget option

• Chicago-based and explicitly focused on small organizations, including nonprofits.
• Their reviews include nonprofit/community projects, and Clutch reports nonprofit web work costing under $10K in at least one Chicago engagement. Clutch
• More likely than a big agency to be comfortable with a relatively modest redesign budget.
• Ask for a fixed-price “minimum viable redesign” rather than a full agency engagement.
• Advocate Creative — excellent if messaging/brand is part of the problem

• Chicago agency specifically focused on communications for nonprofits and foundations.
• Particularly interesting if the redesign needs to clarify your mission, fundraising story, programs, or calls to action—not merely make the existing site prettier.
• I would ask whether they have a nonprofit rate, pro-bono availability, or smaller-scope engagement.
• Bark Design — good mission-driven boutique

• Chicago studio with nonprofit, cultural, education, and community-organization experience.
• Does both communications/branding and web work, which can be useful if the current site has an outdated identity as well as outdated UX.
• A boutique studio is worth approaching for a discounted nonprofit package.
• Paul Gregory Media — strong nonprofit-specific experience

• Chicago-area agency with a significant focus on nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations.
• They have a documented nonprofit website redesign and recent reviews specifically praising their project management and value. Clutch
• I'd put them on the list if you have some budget rather than needing entirely pro bono work.
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — worth approaching for a more sophisticated redesign

• Chicago design agency working with purpose-driven organizations.
• Their capabilities include UX, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, content strategy, analytics, and integrations.
• Probably a better fit for a nonprofit with a somewhat complex site or multiple audiences.

One particularly interesting non-Chicago option

Crescendo Studios has an unusually explicit nonprofit program: qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with selected projects taken pro bono. They specifically mention website design/development and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

So even though they're not Chicago-based, I'd absolutely apply if you're eligible.

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit and I wanted to maximize the chance of getting the project done cheaply, I'd contact them in this order:

• Firebelly — ask about pro bono/Grant for Good.
• Windy City Web Solutions — ask for a small-nonprofit fixed-price redesign.
• Advocate Creative — ask about nonprofit/discounted capacity.
• Bark Design — ask about a small nonprofit engagement.
• Paul Gregory Media — get a competitive quote.
• Crescendo Studios — apply for their nonprofit program regardless of location.

One important distinction: don't lead with “Can you redesign our website for free?” Instead, give them a very concrete scope and say you're a small nonprofit seeking pro-bono, discounted, or phased work. That makes it much easier for an agency to say yes to something.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate annual budget, current website URL, what you dislike about it, and your maximum website budget (even if it's $0), I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually contact and find their current nonprofit/contact pages, plus draft the outreach email.

• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Taproot - 100 S State St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• TLO Web Designs - 9109 S Paxton Ave, Chicago, IL 60617, United States
• Meyer Partners - 8745 W Higgins Rd Suite 110, Chicago, IL 60631, United States
• Greater Good Studio - 3759 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Yes. I’d focus less on “best Chicago web agencies” and more on firms with an actual history of helping nonprofits at reduced/pro-bono rates. A few stand out.

My shortlist

1. Sandstorm Design — strong option if your redesign involves UX, accessibility, content structure, and a fairly sophisticated site. They’re a Chicago digital/UX agency with substantial nonprofit experience. I’d ask specifically whether they have a nonprofit/community-rate or pro-bono opportunity available. Clutch
2. Orbit Media — probably my first call for pro bono. Their Chicago Cause program has provided pro-bono websites to 50+ Chicago nonprofits, including a complete redesign for Chicago CRED. This is exactly the kind of track record you're looking for. Orbit Media Studios

orbitmedia.com

3. Firebelly Design — worth contacting if your nonprofit needs more than just a technical rebuild. Their Grant for Good program has donated design services to a nonprofit each year since 2004. Their work covers UX, web, content strategy and accessibility.

firebellydesign.com

4. Fuzzy Math — another particularly compelling one because they have a documented pro-bono nonprofit website redesign, for Chicago nonprofit UCAN. Their approach included information architecture, donation conversion, visual hierarchy and storytelling. Fuzzy Math

fuzzymath.com

5. Crescendo Studios — best explicit discounted-rate option I found. They say qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically accept applications for web design/development and say they respond within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

crescendostudios.com

6. Bark Design — interesting if you're a smaller, mission-driven organization and want a more boutique relationship. They work extensively with nonprofits, cultural organizations and community organizations and do both web and communications/branding.
7. Statement — not necessarily pro bono, but I'd put them on the list for a budget-conscious paid engagement. They explicitly emphasize right-sized solutions and working within nonprofit budgets.
8. What A Great Website — a smaller Chicago boutique that has nonprofit experience and appears particularly appropriate if you need a relatively straightforward redesign rather than a huge enterprise web project.

One wildcard: Taproot

Taproot isn't an agency, but I'd pursue it in parallel. Taproot connects nonprofits with skilled volunteers for pro-bono professional work, including design and website-related projects. This could potentially get you assistance without an agency-sized budget.

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send essentially the same short project brief to:

Orbit Media → Firebelly → Fuzzy Math → Crescendo Studios → Sandstorm

That's a particularly good mix of true pro bono + nonprofit experience + discounted work, rather than simply asking expensive agencies whether they'll "work with a nonprofit."

One important caveat: pro-bono programs can be selective and may have application windows, so I wouldn't assume availability just because they've done pro-bono work previously.

What to say when you reach out

Don't lead with “Can you redesign our website for free?” Give them a compelling, tightly scoped project instead:

We're a small nonprofit looking to redesign our website to better communicate our mission, increase [donations/volunteer applications/program participation], and make the site easier for our small staff to maintain. We're a 501(c)(3) with a limited budget and are specifically looking for a pro-bono, discounted, or nonprofit-rate partner. We'd be happy to provide our current site, goals, approximate budget, and desired timeline.

If you give me your nonprofit's current website + approximate budget (even $0–$5k) + what you want the redesign to accomplish, I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually approach first and draft the outreach emails.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Paul Gregory Media - 200 E 5th Ave, Ste 105, Naperville, IL 60563
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Paul Gregory Media - 50 S Main St Suit 200, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
• Vera Creative - 935 W Chestnut St #650, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

1. Orbit Media — first call for a serious pro-bono pitch

Orbit is probably the strongest Chicago option to approach if you want a real website redesign rather than just discounted hours. Its Chicago Cause program says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits through pro-bono website services, including a recent full redesign for Chicago CRED. Orbit Media Studios

Why I'd contact them: They have deep web strategy/development expertise and a demonstrated history of doing substantial nonprofit sites pro bono—not just giving a small discount.

orbitmedia.com

2. Crescendo Studios — best explicit discounted/pro-bono program

This is unusually clear-cut: Crescendo says qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with some projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically list web design/development among the eligible services and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

This would be one of my first emails if your budget is very limited.

crescendostudios.com

3. Digital Mountaineers — particularly interesting for a small nonprofit

They advertise free homepage redesigns donated to nonprofits. That's narrower than a full website rebuild, but it could be a very good entry point if your organization needs a visual/UX overhaul without the budget for a complete rebuild. Digital Mountaineers

4. NextClient — worth a pro-bono inquiry

NextClient explicitly says it is willing to donate its time and expertise to create websites for nonprofits on a pro-bono basis. NextClient

I'd ask whether they currently have capacity for a complete redesign versus a new/basic site.

5. Howle Creative — good if you can afford a reduced-rate project

They advertise nonprofit website packages with up to 20% off for projects of $1,000+, including redesigns. Howle Creative

6. Peak Digital — another straightforward discounted option

They currently advertise 15% off all services for eligible 501(c)(3)s, including website design/development and ongoing support. Peak Digital Studio

Chicago agencies I'd approach even without a published discount

If you're looking for high-quality nonprofit web strategy and can potentially put together some budget, I'd also talk to:

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — Chicago-based, purpose-driven agency with substantial nonprofit-oriented branding, UX, accessibility, WordPress and web-development capabilities.
• Firebelly Design — particularly interesting because its Grant for Good has historically donated design services to a nonprofit each year. Its web practice includes UX, content strategy, accessibility and development.
• Advocate Creative — very nonprofit/foundation-oriented; I'd consider them if the redesign also involves messaging/brand strategy.
• Paul Gregory Media — strong nonprofit fit and specifically has experience with nonprofit website redesigns; a recent Chicago-area ranking identifies a nonprofit redesign project from them. Clutch
• Sandstorm Design — more of a higher-end option, but particularly worth considering if accessibility, UX research and a complex site are important.

Who I'd email first

If this were my small Chicago nonprofit, I'd send the same one-page project brief to these five, in this order:

Orbit Media → Crescendo Studios → Digital Mountaineers → NextClient → Firebelly Design

That gives you a mix of established Chicago pro-bono programs + explicit nonprofit discounts + a potentially excellent grant-style opportunity.

One important caveat: don't assume "nonprofit experience" means "nonprofit pricing." For example, Chicago agency listings show some excellent nonprofit web firms with typical project minimums in the $10k–$50k+ range, so I'd lead with the budget constraint rather than getting halfway through a sales process first. Clutch

What I'd put in the initial email

Subject: Chicago nonprofit seeking pro-bono/discounted website redesign

Hi [Name],

We're a small Chicago nonprofit looking to redesign our website. We're a 501(c)(3) with a very limited budget, so we're specifically looking for an agency that offers pro-bono, grant-supported, or significantly discounted nonprofit work.

We're hoping to improve [3 biggest problems], with the goal of [donations / program enrollment / volunteer recruitment / communicating our impact].

Current site: [URL]
Approx. budget: [$X, if any]
Desired launch: [date]
Platform: [WordPress/etc., if known]

Would you be open to considering this through your nonprofit/pro-bono program, or recommending the appropriate person on your team?

Thanks,
[Name]

If you give me your nonprofit's website URL, approximate budget (even "$0–5k"), and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually contact and draft personalized outreach emails to each.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Windy City Web Solutions - 801 S Wells St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
• Paul Gregory Media - 200 E 5th Ave, Ste 105, Naperville, IL 60563
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Ensemble Media - 4704 N Kenmore Ave C, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Bark Design - 3115 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Bark Design - 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
• That's So Creative, LLC - 3636 S Iron St Ste C-350, Chicago, IL 60609, United States

Yes. I’d start with the firms that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono mechanism, rather than approaching a general agency and simply asking for a discount.

Based on what I found, these are the strongest Chicago-area leads:

My shortlist

1. Firebelly Design — best true pro-bono possibility

• Chicago design agency with substantial nonprofit experience.
• Their “Grant for Good” program has donated design services to a different nonprofit each year since 2004. Their work includes web strategy, UX, accessibility, content strategy and development.
• If your organization is a compelling candidate, I would absolutely contact them and ask specifically about the current Grant for Good cycle or other nonprofit accommodations. Clutch
• Reach out: ask for whoever handles nonprofit partnerships / Grant for Good.
• Orbit Media — probably the first agency I'd contact

• They have a particularly strong track record with Chicago nonprofits through Chicago Cause, their pro-bono website program.
• Orbit says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits through Chicago Cause; one example is the Chicago CRED website redesign. Orbit Media Studios
• This is much more compelling to me than an agency merely saying “we work with nonprofits.”
• Ask: whether Chicago Cause is accepting applications or whether they have a discounted nonprofit pathway for organizations that aren't selected for pro bono.
• Crescendo Studios — strongest explicitly discounted option

• Their nonprofit program is unusually clear: qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects done pro bono.
• They specifically list web design & development and say they work on donation flows, volunteer signups and event calendars. They also say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios
• This would be one of my first three emails if your budget is genuinely small.
• Windy City Web Solutions — good small-nonprofit practical option

• Chicago-based and specifically oriented toward smaller organizations, including nonprofits.
• Clutch's current Chicago nonprofit rankings show a less-than-$10K project example involving a website revamp, with clients praising the company's value and responsiveness. Clutch
• I'd approach them if you need a realistic paid-but-affordable rebuild rather than waiting for a pro-bono slot.
• Paul Gregory Media — worth a nonprofit-specific pitch

• They have actual nonprofit website-redesign experience, including a nonprofit redesign cited in current Chicago rankings.
• Clutch reports nonprofit clients praising their project management and usability work. Clutch
• They're in Naperville rather than Chicago proper, but that's close enough that I wouldn't rule them out.
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — good if strategy/brand is part of the problem

• Chicago agency focused on purpose-driven organizations, with branding, messaging, UX, web development, accessibility and WordPress capabilities.
• I'd put them higher if the redesign needs to rethink your positioning, messaging and information architecture, not just make the existing site prettier.

A couple of less-obvious options

Digital Mountaineers is especially interesting: they advertise free homepage redesigns donated to organizations serving their communities. That's potentially a very low-friction way to improve the most important page even if a complete redesign isn't feasible. Digital Mountaineers

There's also Fuzzy Math, which has a documented history of doing pro-bono nonprofit UX/web work; for example, they redesigned UCAN Chicago's site pro bono with a focus on engagement and online donations. Fuzzy Math

And if you're open to a provider outside Chicago, Ark40 Consulting currently advertises free web development and technology services specifically for small nonprofits. Ark40 Consulting

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit, I'd send essentially the same short pitch to:

1. Orbit Media → ask about Chicago Cause
2. Crescendo Studios → apply for their nonprofit program
3. Firebelly → ask about Grant for Good / nonprofit pro bono
4. Windy City Web Solutions → request a small-nonprofit fixed-price proposal
5. Paul Gregory Media → request a nonprofit-rate proposal

That's a better strategy than contacting 15 agencies. You want to create a little competition while giving the pro-bono programs a chance.

The email I'd send

Subject: Chicago nonprofit seeking website redesign — pro bono/discounted partnership

Hi [Name],

I'm reaching out on behalf of [Organization], a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) serving [one-sentence description of who you serve].

We're looking to redesign our website because [2–3 specific problems: outdated UX, difficult to update, poor mobile experience, weak donation/volunteer conversion, etc.].

We're a small nonprofit with a limited web budget of approximately $X. We're therefore looking for an agency that might be able to work with us through a pro-bono program, nonprofit discount, or a tightly scoped project.

The ideal project would include:

• redesign of approximately X pages
• improved mobile/accessibility experience
• clearer paths to [donate / volunteer / services / programs]
• [WordPress/Squarespace/etc.] development
• staff training so we can maintain the site ourselves

Our current site is [URL].

Would you be open to discussing whether this could fit one of your nonprofit/pro-bono programs?

Thank you,
[Name]

One important thing: don't lead with “Can you redesign our website for free?” Lead with mission + concrete scope + budget + flexibility. Agencies are much more likely to engage when they can see a manageable project and understand exactly what you're asking them to contribute.

If you give me your nonprofit's website URL, approximate budget (even “$0–$5K”), and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies that are particularly good matches and find the right contact/application page for each.

• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608
• ArtVersion® Creative Agency - 211 W Wacker Dr Ste 1130, Chicago, IL 60606
• Web Pro Chicago - 3818 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
• 10com Web Development - 205 N Michigan Ave Suit 810, Chicago, IL 60601
• Roosterly - 401 N Michigan Ave Ste 1701, Chicago, IL 60611
• One Chicago SEO Company - 20 N Clark St #2140, Chicago, IL 60602
• What A Great Website - 50 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
• Next/Now - 1200 W Lake St #2, Chicago, IL 60607
• Wojo Design - 318 W Adams St #1609, Chicago, IL 60606
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526
• Rescue Marketing - 2716 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly advertise nonprofit discounts or have a track record with nonprofits, rather than simply asking a large agency for “pro bono.”

My shortlist

• Peak Digital — probably my first outreach. They explicitly offer 15% off all services for eligible 501(c)(3)s, and specifically describe their website work as suited to small nonprofit teams. They do Webflow and WordPress, donation integrations, branding, and ongoing support. Peak Digital Studio

peakdigitalstudio.com

• Howle Creative — particularly worth contacting if your budget is modest. They advertise up to 20% off nonprofit website projects of $1,000+, including redesigns, copywriting, SEO, and post-launch maintenance. Howle Creative

howlecreative.com

• Nonprofit Megaphone — I'd investigate this one because the entire positioning is nonprofit-focused rather than treating nonprofits as an occasional client. It's a Chicago marketing agency, so I'd ask specifically about website redesign pricing and whether they have a small-nonprofit package.
• Windy City Web Solutions — worth getting a quote from. Current Chicago nonprofit-agency reviews specifically mention work for a food pantry and public-health organization, with clients emphasizing responsiveness and value; one review category shows projects under $10,000. Clutch
• Social Driver — a stronger candidate if your redesign is strategically important and you can find some funding. They have substantial nonprofit/education experience and very strong client feedback, but their typical project pricing is considerably higher, so I'd approach them specifically about a reduced-scope nonprofit engagement or pro-bono opportunity rather than assuming they'll be affordable. Clutch Clutch

Who I'd contact first

I'd send the same short project brief to Peak Digital, Howle Creative, Windy City Web Solutions, and Nonprofit Megaphone and compare the responses.

The key is to not lead with “Can you do this pro bono?” Instead say:

We're a small nonprofit looking for a website redesign and have a limited budget. Do you offer nonprofit pricing, reduced-scope packages, or occasional pro-bono/discounted engagements for organizations like ours?

That gives them several ways to say yes.

If you tell me (1) your nonprofit's mission, (2) approximate budget—even “$0–$2k” is useful, (3) current website, and (4) what you want changed, I can narrow this to 3–5 Chicago agencies that are genuinely realistic for you, including the best person/channel to approach at each.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Taproot - 100 S State St, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Chris Depa Web Design + Branding - 1528 Robinhood Ln, La Grange Park, IL 60526, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• ePageCity Inc. - 111 N Wabash Ave Ste 3023, Chicago, IL 60602, United States
• Paul Gregory Media - 50 S Main St Suit 200, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
• Beth Interactive - 4657 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60640
• Paul Gregory Media - 200 E 5th Ave, Ste 105, Naperville, IL 60563
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies with an explicit nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients. I found several Chicago-area options that look particularly promising for a small nonprofit website redesign.

My shortlist

1. Firebelly Design — Chicago

• Probably my first call if you want high-quality agency-level design and can potentially compete for pro bono support.
• Firebelly has a longstanding Grant for Good program under which it donates design services to a nonprofit each year. Its capabilities include UX, content strategy, accessibility, responsive development, and CMS work. Clutch
• Best if the redesign needs to improve both visual identity and the overall user experience, rather than just refreshing the WordPress theme.
• Advocate Creative — Chicago

• Very interesting fit for a nonprofit/foundation. The firm specifically focuses on communications for nonprofits and foundations and does branding, messaging, web design, and digital experiences.
• I'd reach out and explicitly ask whether they have pro-bono, nonprofit-rate, or capacity-based projects available.
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — Chicago

• Strong candidate if your site needs a more strategic overhaul. They work with purpose-driven organizations and offer research, UX/UI, accessibility, SEO, WordPress development, content strategy, and integrations.
• I'd ask about a scaled-down nonprofit engagement rather than leading with "free."
• Taproot — Chicago

• This is actually one of the best avenues if your budget is close to zero. Taproot connects nonprofits with skilled volunteers for pro-bono professional services, including design/creative and technology work.
• Rather than hiring an agency, you potentially get a volunteer professional or team to help with the redesign.
• Crescendo Studios

• This one is especially worth contacting because the nonprofit offer is explicit: qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, and selected projects are done pro bono. They specifically mention website design/development. Applications are reportedly reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios
• crescendostudios.com
• Pilot Digital — Chicago

• Their Do Good By nonprofit program is explicitly free, and they're currently accepting submissions for 2026 sessions and beyond. Their focus is more digital marketing/SEO than pure website design, but that can be very useful if your redesign is tied to increasing donations, volunteers, or visibility. Pilot Digital
• pilotdigital.com
• Statement — Oak Park

• Not Chicago proper, but close enough to include. They explicitly position themselves around nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, and their nonprofit clients mention the firm's willingness to provide options that keep projects affordable.
• I'd consider them if you're looking for good strategic/creative work without necessarily needing full pro bono.

A couple of wildcard options

There are also some newer/smaller organizations that are unusually nonprofit-friendly:

• Nothing Hard says it builds nonprofit websites completely free, including a year of free hosting and maintenance. It claims 40+ sites shipped. Nothing Hard
• Fire and Cloud Consulting's Spark Program provides one verified 501(c)(3) per quarter with a complete website build at no build cost; the nonprofit covers hosting. Fire and Cloud Consulting
• Durk Media offers sliding-scale nonprofit pricing, with minimum projects starting around $500, and says it's developing a pro-bono program. Durk Media
• Peak Digital advertises a standing 15% nonprofit discount for eligible 501(c)(3)s. Peak Digital Studio
• Lorien Web explicitly offers mission-aligned nonprofit rates and says it will scope the project around what the organization's budget can support. Lorien Web

Who I'd contact first

If this were my nonprofit and I had a small budget, I'd make these five outreach attempts in roughly this order:

1. Firebelly — best shot at exceptional agency-quality work through a charitable program.
2. Crescendo Studios — clearest combination of nonprofit discount + potential pro bono.
3. Taproot — best avenue if you genuinely can't afford an agency.
4. Advocate Creative — particularly compelling if the site also needs messaging/brand work.
5. LimeRed — strong choice for a serious UX/accessibility/content overhaul.

One important distinction: don't pitch this as "we need a website." Pitch it as a defined impact project: "We need to redesign our website so prospective donors can understand our impact, supporters can find programs, and volunteers can take action." That's much easier for an agency to justify as pro bono/community-impact work.

If you tell me your nonprofit's name, approximate annual budget, current website, and what you hate about the current site, I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies that are actually a good fit and find the right person/contact route for each.

• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Sandstorm Design - 4422 N Ravenswood Ave #50, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Mightybytes - 4001 N Ravenswood Ave, Ste 404, Chicago, IL 60613
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• Community Programs Accelerator - 5225 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60615, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Civic Consulting Alliance - 190 S LaSalle St 39th Floor, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Designs 4 Dignity - 445 N Wells St, Suite 402, Chicago, IL 60654
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• Illinois Small Business Development Center Humboldt Park - 2425 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Prosper Strategies - 200 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
• Designs for Dignity - 4311 S Western Blvd, Chicago, IL 60609, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than simply asking a normal agency to “give you a nonprofit rate.”

My Chicago shortlist

• Firebelly Design — Best pro-bono shot. Firebelly has a long-running Grant for Good program and says it has donated design services to a different nonprofit each year since 2004. Their capabilities include UX, information architecture, accessibility, content strategy, development, and CMS work.

I'd contact them first if your redesign is substantial and your organization has a compelling mission/story.

• Advocate Creative — Strong nonprofit/foundation fit. They're a Chicago branding/design agency specifically focused on nonprofits and foundations, including website projects. Good choice if the redesign needs to improve both the site's appearance and how clearly it communicates your mission.
• LimeRed Studio, Inc. — Best for a strategic redesign. They work with purpose-driven organizations and offer research, UX/UI, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, analytics, and integrations. This is the kind of shop I'd approach if your current website has deeper usability/content problems rather than just needing a visual refresh.
• Sandstorm Design — Excellent but potentially pricier. They're a Chicago UX/digital-experience agency with nonprofit, healthcare, higher-ed, and association experience, including accessibility and inclusive design. Worth asking whether they have current pro-bono or nonprofit-rate capacity.
• Mightybytes — Great mission-driven option. Chicago-based, focused on purpose-driven organizations, with web strategy/design/development plus accessibility and sustainability expertise. I'd ask specifically about a small-nonprofit rate or pro-bono availability.
• Nonprofit Megaphone — Worth considering if fundraising/digital marketing is central. They're exclusively nonprofit-focused and can bring the website into a broader donor-acquisition strategy.

The really interesting low-cost options

There are also some programs I'd pursue in parallel with Chicago agencies:

• Crescendo Studios explicitly reserves capacity for nonprofits, offering up to 50% off standard rates and selected projects pro bono. They specifically list web design/development and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios

crescendostudios.com

• Digital Mountaineers says it donates free homepage redesigns to nonprofits. If you don't need an enormous rebuild, this could be a very good entry point. Digital Mountaineers

digitalmountaineers.com

• Taproot Foundation is probably the most important pro-bono avenue to pursue. Nonprofits can create a free profile and request skilled volunteers; Taproot specifically supports website design, UX/UI, wireframes, web development, and website-redesign planning. Taproot Foundation Mail Taproot Foundation

taprootfoundation.org

There's good evidence this can work for Chicago nonprofits: Catchafire documents a Chicago organization, BUILD, receiving pro-bono help with a CMS website redesign and saving more than $16,000. Catchafire Blog

Who I'd contact first

If I were running the outreach, I'd do it in this order:

1. Firebelly — ask about Grant for Good/current pro-bono opportunities.
2. Crescendo Studios — apply for the nonprofit program.
3. Taproot — post a clearly scoped website-redesign project.
4. Advocate Creative — ask about nonprofit/project pricing.
5. LimeRed — ask about a scaled-down engagement or nonprofit rate.
6. Mightybytes — ask whether they have pro-bono/discounted capacity.
7. Sandstorm — worth the inquiry, particularly if accessibility/UX is a major concern.

One important tactic: don't pitch this as “we need a new website.” Give them a tightly scoped project: “We are a small 501(c)(3) seeking a redesign of our existing WordPress site, approximately X pages, with improved mobile UX, accessibility, donation/volunteer conversion, and staff-editable content. Our budget is $X, and we'd like to explore pro-bono, discounted, or phased options.”

That makes it much easier for an agency to say yes.

If you tell me your nonprofit's mission, approximate annual budget, current website, and what you can spend ($0 / <$5k / $5–10k / etc.), I can narrow this to 3–5 agencies that are genuinely realistic for your situation and find the right contact/application page for each.

• LimeRed Studio, Inc. - 4611 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States
• Firebelly Design - 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
• Advocate Creative - 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
• Design & Promote - 1250 E Diehl Rd 306, Ste 306, Naperville, IL 60563
• Nonprofit Megaphone - 1230 W 34th St, Chicago, IL 60608, United States
• LIMIT8 | Nonprofit Web Design Experts - 350 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10025, United States
• Statement - 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• EDUCO Web Design - 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
• Web For Lesss - Chicago, IL 60651
• Lipman-Hearne - 200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
• eGuide Tech Allies - 405 W Superior St, Ste 409, Chicago, IL 60622
• Beth Interactive Inc. - 4541 N Ravenswood Ave #303, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — strongest Chicago-specific option

• Chicago-based and heavily focused on purpose-driven organizations.
• Does strategy, UX, accessibility, content, WordPress development, and integrations—not just visual design.
• I’d contact them if you want a serious redesign rather than a cheap template refresh.
• Their work tends to be more sophisticated, so I'd specifically ask whether they have nonprofit pricing, pro-bono capacity, or a smaller-scope engagement.
• Firebelly Design — worth pursuing for pro bono

• This is one of the more interesting leads because Firebelly has a longstanding “Grant for Good” program through which it donates design services to a nonprofit each year.
• They also have substantial nonprofit experience, including web/UX/accessibility work.
• I'd absolutely ask when the next Grant for Good application/opportunity opens.
• Orbit Media — particularly compelling if you can get into Chicago Cause

• Orbit says its Chicago Cause initiative has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits with pro-bono website services since 2010.
• Its Chicago CRED project is specifically a nonprofit website redesign, so there's a very close match to what you're looking for. Orbit Media Studios
• This would be my first inquiry if your nonprofit is Chicago-based and you're genuinely looking for pro bono rather than merely discounted work.
• Crescendo Studios — clearest explicit discount/pro-bono offer

• They explicitly reserve capacity every year for nonprofits.
• Qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with some projects taken entirely pro bono.
• Their nonprofit program specifically includes website design/development, and they say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Crescendo Studios
• This is probably the lowest-friction application I'd make.
• Digital Mountaineers — unusually nonprofit-friendly

• They specialize in mission-driven organizations and explicitly emphasize cost containment.
• They also advertise free homepage redesigns donated to nonprofits, which could be useful if your budget doesn't support a complete rebuild. Digital Mountaineers
• I'd ask whether they would extend that into a broader redesign.
• EDUCO Web Design — good if you want nonprofit expertise

• Chicago-area agency with 20+ years of nonprofit web-design/branding experience and clients including LISC Chicago, Women Employed, Housing Forward and BUILD Chicago. Educo Web Design
• I don't see as strong an explicit pro-bono commitment as the options above, so I'd approach them asking for nonprofit pricing or a reduced-scope proposal.

If your budget is very small

I'd actually contact these in this order:

Orbit Media → Crescendo Studios → Firebelly → Digital Mountaineers → LimeRed → EDUCO

The first four have something materially better than "we've worked with nonprofits": they have an identifiable mechanism for donated, discounted, or otherwise nonprofit-oriented work.

There's also a potentially useful route through Catchafire, which connects nonprofits with professionals willing to provide pro-bono digital/design help. Wandr Studio

One thing I'd do differently in your outreach

Don't send them "We need a website redesign. What's your price?"

Instead, give them a tight one-page project brief:

• Who you are + mission
• Current website
• What's wrong with it
• 3–5 things the new site absolutely needs to accomplish
• Approximate number of pages
• Platform currently used (WordPress, Squarespace, etc.)
• Whether you need donation/payment integration
• Your nonprofit status
• Your actual budget range, even if it's $0–$10k
• Desired launch date
• Whether you're able to provide copy, photography, and staff time

Then explicitly say you're looking for pro-bono, nonprofit-rate, or reduced-scope options.

That makes it much easier for an agency to say, "We can't do the entire redesign for free, but we can donate strategy + design," or "We can do this for $5,000 instead of $15,000."

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget (e.g. $0, <$5k, $5–10k, $10–25k), size, and what the current website is, I can narrow this to the 3–4 agencies I'd actually approach and find the right contact/application pages for each.

Instead, give them a tight one-page project brief:

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that say they “work with nonprofits.” Based on what I found, there are a few especially strong leads.

My first calls

1. Orbit Media — Chicago Cause

This would be my #1 outreach if you want a serious full website redesign at little or no cost. Orbit has a dedicated pro-bono initiative called Chicago Cause and says it has helped 50+ Chicago nonprofits. They specifically showcase a recent full redesign for Chicago CRED. www.orbitmedia.com

Best for: a substantial redesign involving strategy, UX, content organization, design and development.

2. LimeRed Studio, Inc.

A Chicago design agency with a strong focus on purpose-driven organizations and nonprofits. I'd contact them if you want something brand-forward and polished, particularly if the website needs to better communicate the organization's story rather than just get a visual facelift.

3. Firebelly Design

Another very interesting Chicago option. Firebelly has a longstanding Grant for Good program through which it donates design services to a nonprofit each year. Its capabilities include UX, information architecture, content strategy, accessibility and web development—not just graphic design.

Best for: a higher-end strategic redesign where UX/content/accessibility matter.

4. Fuzzy Math

Definitely worth contacting. They have an actual history of pro-bono nonprofit website redesigns, including a redesign for Chicago nonprofit UCAN focused on improving engagement, donations, information architecture and storytelling. They also explicitly invite nonprofits to recommend themselves as pro-bono partners. fuzzymath.com

Best for: UX-heavy redesigns and figuring out what the site should actually do before redesigning it.

5. Crescendo Studios

This is probably the most straightforward option if you have some budget but not agency-budget money. Their current nonprofit program says qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically do web design/development and nonprofit functionality such as donations, volunteer signups and events. www.crescendostudios.com

Best for: “We can spend something, but $20–50k is completely unrealistic.”

Also worth pursuing

• Taproot — not an agency, but potentially one of the best routes to free professional help. Taproot matches nonprofits with skilled volunteers, including design/creative and website-related work.
• Bark Design — Chicago studio with nonprofit/mission-driven experience and website, UX, IA and CMS capabilities. I'd ask specifically whether they have current pro-bono or nonprofit pricing.
• Statement — particularly interesting if the redesign needs messaging/brand strategy as well as the site itself.
• Prosper Strategies — more strategy/communications-oriented than a pure web shop, but potentially useful if you need to figure out positioning and audience priorities before redesigning.
• What A Great Website — a smaller Chicago web agency; nonprofit reviews specifically mention working within budget constraints.

If your budget is basically $0

I'd approach them in this order:

Orbit Media → Fuzzy Math → Firebelly → Taproot

There are also some non-Chicago options that explicitly offer free nonprofit websites. For example, Digital Mountaineers currently advertises free homepage redesigns, while WeSupportGivers advertises completely free websites for qualifying small nonprofits. digitalmountaineers.com

One important distinction

When you contact these groups, don't lead with “we need a new website.” Lead with the problem and impact:

“We're a small nonprofit in Chicago. Our current website makes it difficult for [donors/clients/volunteers] to [specific problem]. We're looking for a partner to rethink the information architecture, messaging and UX—not simply give the existing site a new visual design. Our budget is $X, and we're interested in pro-bono, discounted, or phased engagement options.”

That makes it much easier for an agency to decide whether your project is a fit.

If you tell me the nonprofit's mission, current website, approximate budget ($0 / <$5k / $5–15k / $15k+), and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually contact first, including the right person/program to approach and what to ask each one.

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly publish a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than simply asking a normal agency to “do nonprofit pricing.”

My shortlist

1. Taproot — best first stop for truly pro-bono help
   • Taproot matches nonprofits with skilled volunteers for pro-bono professional services, including design and website-related work.
   • This is probably the first place I’d try if your budget is close to $0.
   • Their Chicago presence is at 100 S State St.

2. Crescendo Studios — strongest explicit discounted/pro-bono offer
   • They specifically reserve time each year for nonprofits.
   • Qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, and selected projects are done pro bono.
   • They explicitly do website design/development and nonprofit-specific functionality like donations, volunteer signups and event calendars. www.crescendostudios.com
   • I'd contact them immediately. Their published application even asks for an estimated budget of $0–$5,000.

3. Digital Mountaineers — particularly interesting for a small nonprofit
   • They advertise free homepage redesigns donated to nonprofits.
   • If your existing site isn't terrible but desperately needs a better homepage/visual hierarchy, this could be a very good low-risk starting point. digitalmountaineers.com

4. Firebelly Design — excellent Chicago option, but harder to get
   • Firebelly has substantial nonprofit/social-impact experience.
   • Their Grant for Good program has historically donated design services to one nonprofit each year.
   • I'd still reach out, but I'd treat this as a long shot for full website work, rather than your primary option.

5. Windy City Web Solutions — good practical budget option
   • Chicago-based, explicitly focused on nonprofit WordPress sites.
   • They emphasize working directly with the developer rather than a large agency structure, which can make a small project more economical. windycitywebsolutions.com
   • I don't see the same explicit pro-bono commitment as Crescendo, so I'd ask for a small-nonprofit package or reduced scope.

6. Peak Digital — straightforward 15% nonprofit discount
   • They explicitly offer 15% off all services for eligible 501(c)(3)s.
   • They do WordPress/Webflow, donation integrations, accessibility, branding and ongoing support. www.peakdigitalstudio.com
   • Good choice if you have some budget but can't afford a conventional Chicago agency.

One more I'd consider

Design & Promote is in the Chicago suburbs and has a history of discounted/pro-bono design and hosting work for community organizations. Their nonprofit work isn't as explicitly website-redesign-focused as Crescendo, but they're worth approaching if you're willing to work with a suburban agency.

Who I'd contact, in order

If this were my small nonprofit, I'd send inquiries in this order:

Crescendo → Taproot → Digital Mountaineers → Windy City Web Solutions → Peak Digital → Firebelly

The first three give you the best shot at getting the project done for $0–a few thousand dollars, rather than merely getting a 10–20% agency discount.

One thing I'd not do is ask simply, “Can you redesign our website for cheap?” Instead, give them a tightly defined scope: current site, desired platform, number of pages, whether content/copy is included, donation functionality, accessibility requirements, and your actual maximum budget. That makes it much easier for a nonprofit-friendly agency to say yes.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget (e.g. $0, $1–3k, $3–7k, $7–15k), current website/platform, and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3 agencies and tell you exactly why I'd approach each one.

For a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d prioritize agencies that either have a nonprofit practice, have a history of pro bono work, or are small enough to consider reduced-fee scopes. A full redesign can easily run into five figures, so it’s worth approaching with a clear “we’re mission-driven and budget constrained” conversation. clutch.co

Here are the ones I’d put near the top of your outreach list:

Strongest pro bono / nonprofit-friendly options

1. Orbit Media Studios — ask about Chicago Cause

• Probably the first place I’d try.
• They run a pro bono nonprofit initiative called Chicago Cause and have worked with dozens of Chicago nonprofits on websites. www.orbitmedia.com
• Good fit if you need strategy, UX, content organization, WordPress, accessibility, and a polished donor-facing site.
• Reach out through their nonprofit program and ask whether applications are open.

2. Firebelly Design — Grant for Good

• Firebelly has a long-running nonprofit giving program (“Grant for Good”) where they donate design services to a nonprofit.
• More design/branding-oriented, but they also do web and digital work.
• Worth contacting even if the grant cycle is closed; they may know partners or alternatives.

3. Fuzzy Math

• Has a documented pro bono nonprofit redesign project with UCAN Chicago. fuzzymath.com
• Best fit if your challenge is not just “make it prettier” but “our users can’t find things / donors aren’t converting / our structure is confusing.”

Good nonprofit-focused agencies (likely discounted scope rather than free)

4. Advocate Creative

• Focuses specifically on nonprofits and foundations.
• A good fit if the website needs messaging, storytelling, and fundraising alignment—not just a redesign.

5. Bark Design

• Mission-driven Chicago studio with nonprofit and cultural organization experience.
• Smaller studio may be more flexible on scope.

6. EDUCO Web Design

• Has nonprofit experience and offers web design, development, branding, and ongoing support.
• Worth asking about a nonprofit rate or phased project.

7. Paul Gregory Media

• Has nonprofit/purpose-driven experience and website redesign work. clutch.co

Also consider non-agency routes

• Local university programs: Reach out to design, UX, communications, or computer science departments at schools like DePaul University, Columbia College Chicago, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, or Northwestern University. Graduate/student teams sometimes take nonprofit projects for portfolio experience.
• Taproot Foundation: A national skills-based volunteering network that can match nonprofits with marketing, design, and technology volunteers. www.contentstrategyportfolio.com

How I’d approach them

Don’t lead with “Can you do this for free?” Instead, send:

• nonprofit mission + who you serve
• current website URL
• what’s broken (donors can’t find info, outdated CMS, accessibility issues, etc.)
• approximate budget (even “under $5k,” “$5–10k,” or “seeking pro bono partner”)
• willingness to provide staff time/content/photos

A good first email subject:

“Chicago nonprofit seeking website redesign partner / pro bono or reduced-fee opportunity”

If you tell me your nonprofit’s size, budget range, current website platform (WordPress/Wix/etc.), and what kind of nonprofit it is, I can narrow this to the 5–6 most realistic targets.

Yes. I’d prioritize Chicago firms that already understand nonprofits and have a demonstrated history of giving away or discounting work, rather than approaching a general web shop and simply asking for a nonprofit rate.

My shortlist

1. Firebelly Design — strongest pro-bono lead

This would be my first call if your nonprofit is small and the project is genuinely mission-driven. Firebelly has run its Grant for Good program since 2003, providing a year of free design services to one nonprofit annually. Their past recipients include Chicago Freedom School, Chicago Women's Health Center, Chicago Abortion Fund, and Plant Chicago. They also explicitly do website design/development. firebellydesign.com

The catch: their full pro-bono grant is highly selective, so I'd ask whether they're accepting applications or whether they have a smaller discounted-engagement option. Contact Firebelly Design

2. Bark Design — probably my favorite fit for a small Chicago nonprofit

Bark has been doing mission-driven work in Chicago since 1997 and specifically works with nonprofits and community organizations. Their capabilities include website design/development, UX, information architecture, and CMS development. They've redesigned sites for organizations such as the Inner-City Muslim Action Network and have extensive nonprofit experience. barkdesignchicago.com

I don't see a standing public discount/pro-bono program, so I'd approach them directly with a small, tightly scoped project and a nonprofit budget rather than asking generally for "free work." Bark Design

3. Concentric Design — good if the redesign also needs branding/messaging

Concentric has actual Chicago nonprofit work, including ongoing website/design support for VOCEL and brand work for Rebuilding Exchange. Their recent nonprofit/public-health work also gets strong marks for project management and flexibility. clutch.co

This is particularly interesting if your problem isn't just "our website looks old," but the organization has evolved and the brand, messaging, navigation, and site all need to catch up.

4. What A Great Website — worth contacting if the budget is modest

This is a smaller Chicago shop focused specifically on websites rather than a large branding agency. The local-business results include nonprofit feedback describing them as helping with a website facelift while working within budget constraints. clutch.co

I'd put them on the list if you're talking about something like a $3k–$10k redesign rather than a $30k+ agency engagement.

5. EDUCO Web Design — nonprofit/web expertise, but probably not the first pro-bono ask

EDUCO is in Oak Park and has nonprofit experience, including website redesign/redevelopment work. They're particularly interesting if you're on WordPress or Drupal and need a site that staff can maintain themselves. clutch.co

One option I'd pursue alongside the agencies

Taproot isn't a web agency; it's a pro-bono professional-services organization. It matches nonprofits with skilled volunteers, including people doing website and digital/design work. For a genuinely cash-constrained small nonprofit, I'd pursue this in parallel with Firebelly and Bark.

If you don't need them to be Chicago-based

There are some unusually nonprofit-friendly firms outside Chicago that may actually be better bets for a discounted project. For example, Peak Digital explicitly gives eligible 501(c)(3)s 15% off all services, including website redesigns, while Crescendo Studios says qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with selected projects taken entirely pro bono. www.peakdigitalstudio.com

Who I'd contact first

I'd do this in roughly this order:

Firebelly → Bark → Concentric → What A Great Website → Taproot

And I wouldn't lead with "Can you do our website for free?" I'd give them a very concrete brief:

• nonprofit/501(c)(3) status
• current website
• what isn't working
• 2–3 examples of sites you like
• approximate number of pages
• CMS you're currently using
• desired launch date
• actual maximum budget (even if it's $2,500–$10,000)
• whether you need strategy/content/branding or just design + development

That makes it much easier for an agency to say, "We can't do the whole thing pro bono, but we can do X for $Y," which is often the realistic outcome.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget (e.g. $0, <$5k, $5–15k, $15–30k), what kind of nonprofit it is, and your current website, I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually approach and find the right contact/application page for each.

For a small Chicago nonprofit, I’d look less at “top web agencies” and more at firms that either specialize in nonprofits, have a mission-driven portfolio, or explicitly offer pro bono / nonprofit discounts. These are the ones I’d put on a shortlist:

Best bets for pro bono or discounted nonprofit website redesigns

Advocate Creative

Advocate Creative
Web
Address: 320 N Damen Ave d301, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
Best fit: nonprofits, foundations, advocacy organizations needing strategy + storytelling
They focus specifically on nonprofits and foundations, with experience creating websites that support fundraising, applications, and impact storytelling. www.crescendostudios.com
Reach out if: your site needs a stronger mission narrative, donor journey, or brand refresh.

Firebelly Design

Firebelly Design
Web
Address: 1402 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
Phone: +1 773-489-3200
Best fit: established nonprofits with a strong mission and some budget flexibility
Firebelly has a long history of social-impact work and runs a “Grant for Good” initiative that provides design services to a nonprofit each year. www.crescendostudios.com
Reach out if: you can make a compelling case for impact and are comfortable applying rather than expecting a standard discounted project.

Crescendo Studios

Clique Studios
Web
Address: 20 N Wacker Dr Ste 1075, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
Phone: +1 312-379-9329
Best fit: small nonprofits needing affordable creative help
They explicitly offer nonprofit discounts (up to 50% off standard rates) and select pro bono projects. www.crescendostudios.com
Reach out if: you need a practical redesign rather than a large enterprise build.

Bark Design

Bark Design
Web
Address: 4330 N California Ave Store Front, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
Phone: +1 773-539-7185
Best fit: community organizations, arts groups, schools, cultural nonprofits
Bark positions itself around mission-driven organizations and has worked with nonprofits and cultural institutions. www.crescendostudios.com
Reach out if: visual identity, storytelling, and communications are as important as the technical rebuild.

EDUCO Web Design

EDUCO Web Design
Web
Address: 128 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States
Phone: +1 708-613-0386
Best fit: smaller organizations wanting a manageable WordPress-style redesign
EDUCO offers web design, branding, support, and has nonprofit-oriented work. www.crescendostudios.com
Reach out if: you need something maintainable by staff after launch.

Paul Gregory Media

Paul Gregory Media
Web
Address: 50 S Main St Suit 200, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
Phone: +1 630-216-9010
Best fit: nonprofits that need website + communications help
They focus on nonprofit and purpose-driven organizations, including web design/development and ongoing marketing support. www.crescendostudios.com

Also worth contacting

• Sandstorm Design — excellent nonprofit/mission-driven digital strategy and UX, though likely more expensive; worth asking about nonprofit partnerships or scoped-down work.
• Greater Good Studio — strong social-impact design practice; better for organizations needing research, strategy, and community-centered design.
• That's So Creative, LLC — nonprofit and mission-driven branding/web support.

How I’d approach them

Small nonprofits tend to get better responses if you send:

1. Mission + who you serve (2–3 sentences)
2. Current website URL
3. What’s broken (outdated design, donations, accessibility, mobile, storytelling, CMS issues)
4. Budget range (even “$0–$5k” helps)
5. Whether you’re open to:
   • reduced scope
   • student/junior team involvement
   • sponsorship/recognition opportunities
   • phased redesign

I’d start with Advocate Creative, Crescendo Studios, Firebelly, Bark, and EDUCO for the best odds of a nonprofit-friendly conversation. www.crescendostudios.com

If you tell me the nonprofit’s size, mission area, current website platform (WordPress/Wix/etc.), and approximate budget, I can narrow this to the 5–8 agencies most likely to say yes.

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly advertise nonprofit discounts/pro bono work, rather than starting with general Chicago agencies and asking them to make an exception.

My shortlist

1. Crescendo Studios — strongest first outreach
   • Explicit nonprofit program: up to 50% off, with select projects done pro bono.
   • They specifically mention website work such as donation flows, volunteer sign-ups, and event calendars.
   • They say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. www.crescendostudios.com
   • Crescendo Studios nonprofit program

2. Firebelly Design — worth pursuing for a higher-end redesign
   • Chicago agency with substantial nonprofit experience.
   • Their Grant for Good program has historically donated design services to a nonprofit for an entire year. Their current business profile also shows substantial nonprofit/civic work and web capabilities.
   • Firebelly Design
   • I would specifically ask whether the current Grant for Good cycle is accepting applications.

3. LimeRed Studio — excellent if the redesign involves strategy + accessibility
   • Chicago-based, purpose-driven agency with nonprofit experience.
   • Particularly interesting if you need more than visual polish: information architecture, UX, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, integrations, and content strategy are all in their wheelhouse.
   • LimeRed Studio, Inc.

4. Advocate Creative — good nonprofit/foundation specialist
   • Chicago agency specifically focused on communications for nonprofits and foundations.
   • Their work includes nonprofit websites alongside brand strategy, messaging, and campaigns.
   • Advocate Creative

5. Peak Digital — straightforward nonprofit discount
   • Offers 15% off services for eligible 501(c)(3)s.
   • Specifically works with small nonprofit teams and does WordPress/Webflow sites, donation integrations, branding, and ongoing support.
   • www.peakdigitalstudio.com
   • Peak Digital nonprofit services

6. Howle Creative — potentially good for a smaller-budget project
   • Advertises nonprofit website packages at up to 20% off for projects of $1,000+.
   • Their package includes design, copywriting, mobile optimization, SEO, training, and post-launch maintenance. howlecreative.com
   • Howle Creative nonprofit web design

If your budget is really tight

I'd also investigate these before paying an agency:

• WeSupportGivers says it builds websites 100% free for qualifying small nonprofits. wesupportgivers.com WeSupportGivers
• AMA Design Agency says it selects five nonprofits per month for free five-page websites, with the nonprofit paying for hosting. freewebsitesfornonprofits.com AMA free nonprofit websites
• Emerge Helps exclusively works with nonprofits and advertises discounted accessibility work plus custom site development/redesign and free hosting. emergehelps.com

Who I'd contact first

For a small Chicago nonprofit, my order would be:

Crescendo → Firebelly → Advocate Creative → LimeRed → Peak Digital → Howle

I'd send the same concise project brief to 5–6 of them and explicitly say you're looking for pro bono, nonprofit-rate, or a tightly scoped discounted engagement. Don't just ask, "Do you do nonprofit discounts?" Give them enough information to decide whether the project is attractive to them.

If you tell me your nonprofit's mission, current website, approximate budget (even "$0–$2k"), and what you want changed, I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually approach and find the right contact/application page for each.

Yes. I’d start with the organizations that explicitly advertise pro bono or nonprofit discounts, rather than approaching ordinary Chicago agencies and asking them to donate work.

My shortlist

1. Advocate Creative — Worth contacting if you want a strategy + branding + website partner. They specifically focus on nonprofits and foundations, including nonprofit website projects.

2. Digital Mountaineers — Probably my first call for a website redesign. They specialize exclusively in nonprofits/mission-driven organizations and explicitly offer free homepage redesigns. They've also done full nonprofit website redesigns and builds. digitalmountaineers.com

Digital Mountaineers

3. Crescendo Studios — Excellent if you need an actual full website redesign on a constrained budget. Their nonprofit program offers up to 50% off, with selected projects taken completely pro bono. They specifically list web design/development and say applications are reviewed within 48 hours. www.crescendostudios.com

Crescendo Studios nonprofit program

4. 90five / Give-It-All — Another strong pro-bono option. Their program covers website, design, development, branding and strategy at no cost, and they explicitly say organization size doesn't determine eligibility. www.90five.com

90five Give-It-All

5. Firebelly Design — This is a Chicago agency I'd absolutely put on the radar, particularly if your nonprofit could benefit from a more ambitious brand/website overhaul. Their long-running Grant for Good has provided a full year of free design services to small nonprofits, including website work. firebellydesign.com

Firebelly Design
Caveat: this is an annual grant rather than an always-open discounted program, so I'd contact them to ask about the current application cycle.

6. Mightybytes — A particularly good fit if you care about accessibility, sustainability, UX and a technically strong site. They're Chicago-based and have substantial mission-driven/nonprofit experience, including a major redesign for Chicago Community Trust. www.mightybytes.com

I don't see the same explicit standing pro-bono offer as the options above, so I'd approach them asking whether they have nonprofit pricing or pro-bono capacity.

If it were my nonprofit

I'd contact them in this order:

Digital Mountaineers → Crescendo → 90five → Firebelly → Advocate Creative → Mightybytes

The first three have the clearest path to getting the cost down substantially or to $0.

One other route that's worth pursuing is Taproot. Taproot connects nonprofits with skilled volunteers for things including website builds, UX improvements, design and creative work. That's potentially useful if an agency isn't available. www.mightybytes.com

What I'd send them

Don't just say "we need a website." Give them a very compact project brief:

• current website + what isn't working
• nonprofit mission and who you serve
• approximate annual budget/size
• what you want the new site to accomplish
• must-haves (donations, events, volunteer forms, newsletter, etc.)
• current CMS (WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, etc.)
• whether you have staff who can maintain it
• desired launch date
• your actual budget, including if it's $0

For a small nonprofit, I'd also explicitly ask for a phased redesign. A $3–5k first phase focused on information architecture, homepage, mobile UX, accessibility and donation/volunteer flows can be much more realistic than trying to get a $20k+ agency project donated.

If you tell me what the nonprofit does, roughly how big it is, what your current site is, and your budget (even "$0–$5k"), I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually contact first and find the right contact/application pages for each.

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit/pro-bono program, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

1. Orbit Media Studios — first call

Orbit has an unusually strong Chicago nonprofit track record. Its Chicago Cause program has provided pro-bono website services to 50+ Chicago nonprofits, and its portfolio includes redesigns for Chicago CRED and Ingenuity. www.orbitmedia.com

This would be my #1 outreach, particularly if your redesign is substantial and you need strategy, UX, content structure, and development—not just a prettier homepage.

2. Firebelly Design — excellent pro-bono possibility

Firebelly Design has a particularly compelling history: its Grant for Good program has donated design services to a different nonprofit every year since 2004. Its capabilities include UX, information architecture, content strategy, accessibility, and web development.

I'd ask specifically whether your organization could be considered for the next Grant for Good cycle.

3. Crescendo Studios — strongest explicit discount option

Crescendo says qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects taken completely pro bono. It specifically lists web design/development and says applications are reviewed within 48 hours. www.crescendostudios.com

This is probably the most straightforward option if you have some budget but can't afford a normal agency engagement.

4. Digital Mountaineers — intriguing if you mainly need a homepage/initial redesign

They explicitly say they redesign homepages for free and donate them to nonprofits. digitalmountaineers.com

Worth contacting if the scope can be phased: free homepage first, then paid/discounted work for the rest of the site.

5. LimeRed Studio — strong Chicago nonprofit specialist

LimeRed Studio, Inc. is Chicago-based and does branding, web design/development, UX, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, CRM/forms/payments, etc., for purpose-driven organizations.

I don't see as strong a publicly advertised pro-bono commitment as Orbit/Firebelly/Crescendo, so I'd approach them asking for a nonprofit rate or reduced-scope engagement.

6. Statement — good "right-sized budget" candidate

Statement emphasizes right-sized solutions and specifically describes helping organizations work within limited budgets. That's potentially a better fit than a large agency if you're a small nonprofit.

Also worth trying

• Advocate Creative — Chicago agency focused on nonprofits/foundations, particularly good if the redesign also involves messaging/brand strategy.
• Mightybytes — strong mission-driven agency with particular strengths in accessibility and sustainable digital design.
• Paul Gregory Media — Naperville rather than Chicago proper, but explicitly focused on nonprofits and mission-driven organizations.
• Fuzzy Math — they have a documented pro-bono Chicago nonprofit redesign for UCAN, so I'd consider reaching out even though the program isn't as prominently advertised today. fuzzymath.com

If I were you, I'd contact these 5 first

Orbit → Firebelly → Crescendo → Digital Mountaineers → LimeRed

And I wouldn't send a generic "we need a website" inquiry. Give them a very short project brief:

• nonprofit mission + link to current site
• what is wrong with the current site
• what you want the redesign to accomplish
• approximate number of pages
• CMS (WordPress, Squarespace, etc.), if known
• desired launch date
• your actual budget, including $0 if that's the situation
• whether you need content/copywriting as well as design/development
• 501(c)(3) status

One important distinction: if you're genuinely looking for pro bono, I'd lead with Orbit and Firebelly. If you have, say, $3k–$10k available, I'd broaden the field considerably because a discounted small-agency engagement can give you much more predictable attention and a better long-term handoff than trying to win a pro-bono slot.

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate budget, current website/CMS, and how extensive the redesign is, I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually contact first and find the right contact/application pages for each.

Yes. I’d prioritize organizations with an actual nonprofit/pro-bono mechanism, rather than simply agencies that happen to have nonprofit clients.

My shortlist

1. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — best Chicago agency to ask for mission-driven work
   • Chicago-based, with a strong reputation for nonprofit/purpose-driven organizations.
   • Their work tends to be thoughtful about brand, messaging and digital experience—not just “make us a prettier WordPress site.”
   • I’d contact them and explicitly ask whether they have pro-bono, reduced-rate, or nonprofit-partner availability. Their nonprofit orientation makes them worth approaching even if there isn't a standing discount publicly advertised.

2. Firebelly Design — strongest true pro-bono track record
   • This is one of the first places I'd try.
   • Firebelly's Grant for Good has provided a full year of free design services to one nonprofit annually since 2003, specifically including small nonprofits that otherwise couldn't afford an agency. Their past recipients include Chicago Freedom School and Chicago Women's Health Center. firebellydesign.com
   • The catch: this is competitive and isn't necessarily an on-demand website-redesign program.

3. Taproot — best route to genuinely free help
   • Taproot isn't an agency; it matches nonprofits with skilled volunteers.
   • Its Design & Creative program specifically includes website design, UX/UI feedback and website-redesign planning, and requests can be customized. taprootfoundation.org
   • This can be particularly good if you need someone to rethink the site's structure, messaging and UX, even if the actual development happens separately.
   • There's a nice Chicago precedent: Taproot volunteers helped Hyde Park School of Dance develop a website/branding strategy that was then ready for a developer to implement. taprootfoundation.org

4. Windy City Web Solutions — worth approaching if the budget is small
   • Chicago-based and specifically works with small organizations, including nonprofits.
   • Their focus on WordPress, maintenance and hosting makes them more practical for a small nonprofit than a large brand agency.
   • I'd ask for a nonprofit rate and a tightly scoped redesign, rather than asking them to donate the whole project.

5. Paul Gregory Media — good if you need marketing + website
   • Naperville-based but serves the Chicago area and has a particularly strong mission-driven/nonprofit focus.
   • A recent 2026 nonprofit website-redesign review praised their project management and communication. clutch.co
   • I'd ask whether they have nonprofit pricing, pro-bono capacity, or a smaller “phase 1” redesign option.

One I would definitely pursue: Orbit Media / Chicago Cause

Orbit Media Studios is probably the highest-quality Chicago option if you can get into its pro-bono program.

Their Chicago Cause program has donated more than $968,000 in web design, digital marketing, SEO and content strategy to Chicago nonprofits. The website prize includes a complete website design/development project, copywriting, strategy, analytics setup, SEO work and lifetime hosting from Orbit, with a stated value of $65,000. www.orbitmedia.com

The important part for you: applications for the next Chicago Cause cycle open in fall 2026. Eligibility includes being a Chicagoland 501(c)(3), demonstrating financial need, and working to improve the Chicago community. www.orbitmedia.com

So I would contact Orbit now, even though the application isn't open yet, and get on their radar for the fall cycle.

If you need the site sooner

I'd make these your first calls:

There are also some non-Chicago options worth knowing about if geographic location isn't essential. For example, Crescendo Studios currently advertises up to 50% off for qualifying nonprofits, with select projects taken completely pro bono, and Impact Funding Solutions has a program offering free nonprofit website design/setup. www.crescendostudios.com

What I'd say when contacting them

Don't lead with “We're a small nonprofit and can't afford a website.” Instead, give them a very concrete opportunity:

We're a Chicago 501(c)(3) looking to redesign our existing website. We're looking for help with information architecture, UX, visual design and WordPress implementation. Our current site is [X], and the biggest problems are [3 things]. We're working with a limited nonprofit budget of approximately $X. Do you have a nonprofit discount, pro-bono program, or capacity for a reduced-scope engagement?

That makes it much easier for an agency to say yes to something specific.

If you tell me your nonprofit's name/website, approximate budget (even $0–$5k), and what you dislike about the current site, I can narrow this to 3 agencies I'd actually contact first, including the right person/contact route and examples of comparable nonprofit redesigns.

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a nonprofit discount/pro-bono program, rather than simply asking a normal agency to “give you a nonprofit rate.”

My shortlist

1. Firebelly Design — ask about its Grant for Good
   • This is probably my first Chicago call if you’re looking for genuinely donated work. Firebelly says its Grant for Good has donated design services to a nonprofit each year since 2004.
   • They do web strategy, UX, accessibility, content strategy and development, so this isn't just a visual facelift.
   • Best approach: ask whether the current year's Grant for Good application is open, and if not, whether they have a reduced-rate pathway for smaller nonprofits. clutch.co

2. LimeRed Studio, Inc. — strong nonprofit/purpose-driven fit
   • Chicago-based and particularly focused on purpose-driven organizations.
   • Their capabilities include UX, accessibility, SEO, WordPress, content strategy and integrations.
   • I'd contact them specifically asking for a small-nonprofit scope, rather than pitching a giant redesign. clutch.co

3. Crescendo Studios — unusually explicit discount/pro-bono program
   • This is one of the strongest leads I found: they publicly say qualifying nonprofits can receive up to 50% off, with select projects taken pro bono.
   • Their application specifically includes web design/development and asks for an estimated budget of $0–$5,000, which makes it particularly relevant if you're a small organization. www.crescendostudios.com
   • I'd apply here immediately.

4. Digital Mountaineers — ask about their free homepage redesign
   • They explicitly advertise free homepage redesigns donated to nonprofits.
   • If your full site is too large for a pro-bono engagement, this could be a clever way to get the most important part—the homepage—redesigned and potentially use that as the foundation for a larger project. digitalmountaineers.com

5. EDUCO Web Design — good discounted option
   • They specialize in nonprofit/community-oriented organizations and have substantial nonprofit experience.
   • Their nonprofit page says they offer up to 20% off projects of $1,000+. www.educowebdesign.com
   • They're in Oak Park rather than Chicago proper, but close enough that I wouldn't exclude them.

6. Mightybytes — excellent if accessibility/sustainability matter
   • Chicago agency with a strong mission-driven focus.
   • Particularly interesting if your redesign needs to address accessibility, sustainability, performance, and user experience, rather than simply making the site prettier.

One more worth knowing about

Orbit Media Studios is probably one of the strongest nonprofit website specialists in Chicago, although I would not put them at the top of a pro-bono/discount hunt. They have deep nonprofit experience and publish extensive nonprofit case studies, including the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Goodman Theatre, and others. They also say they tailor scope to budget. www.orbitmedia.com

If I were running the outreach

I'd contact Crescendo + Firebelly + Digital Mountaineers + LimeRed first.

The key is not to say:

“We need a website redesign. Can you give us a nonprofit discount?”

Instead, give them a very concrete, constrained opportunity:

• nonprofit/501(c)(3) status
• current website
• what isn't working
• 2–3 things the new site needs to accomplish
• approximate number of pages
• whether you can provide the copy/photos
• your actual budget, even if it's very small
• desired launch date
• whether you're open to a phased redesign

That last point is important. A $3–5K agency engagement can become realistic if you say, “Let's redesign the information architecture, homepage, donation/program pages and mobile experience first; we'll migrate the remaining content ourselves.”

And if you have $0, say so. There are agencies/programs explicitly looking for nonprofit pro-bono opportunities, and pretending you have a larger budget will just waste everyone's time.

If you tell me your nonprofit's size, current website, approximate budget ($0 / <$5K / $5–10K / etc.), and what you want to change, I can narrow this to 3–5 Chicago agencies that are genuinely realistic for your situation, including who at each agency I'd approach and the best contact route.

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies that explicitly have a pro-bono/discount program or a demonstrated history of doing nonprofit work, rather than simply agencies that list nonprofits in their portfolio.

My shortlist

1. Orbit Media Studios — first call

Orbit Media Studios is probably the strongest match if the primary need is a website redesign. Their Chicago Cause program has provided pro-bono website services to 50+ Chicago nonprofits since 2010, and their portfolio includes a pro-bono redesign for Chicago CRED. www.orbitmedia.com

Why I'd start here: this isn't just occasional charity work—the pro-bono program is specifically about nonprofit websites. I'd ask whether Chicago Cause is currently accepting organizations and, if not, whether they have a reduced-rate pathway.

2. Firebelly Design — excellent if you're a small 501(c)(3)

Firebelly Design has one of the clearest long-running nonprofit commitments I've found. Its Grant for Good provides a nonprofit with a year of free design services, including web design/development. They've worked with small Chicago nonprofits including Chicago Freedom School, Chicago Women's Health Center and Chicago Abortion Fund. firebellydesign.com

The catch: the current grant has fairly substantial eligibility requirements, including a $200K–$750K annual organizational budget, and the grantee needs to cover hard costs such as hosting/production. grantforgood.comfuzzymath.comwww.techforchange-il.com So this is fantastic if you qualify, but probably not the first option for a very tiny organization.

3. Crescendo Studios — potentially the best budget fit

Crescendo explicitly says qualifying nonprofits receive up to 50% off standard rates, with select projects done pro bono. Their nonprofit program specifically includes web design/development and says applications are reviewed within 48 hours. www.crescendostudios.com

I'd contact them even if your budget is only a few thousand dollars. That's much more promising than approaching a large agency asking them to donate a $30K+ project.

4. Fuzzy Math — worth approaching for UX/restructuring

Fuzzy Math has actually done pro-bono website redesign work for UCAN Chicago, including improving information architecture, donation pathways and storytelling. They also explicitly invite nonprofits to recommend themselves or another organization for pro-bono partnerships. fuzzymath.com

I'd especially consider them if your problem is "our website is confusing and we need to rethink the user experience" rather than simply "we need a prettier WordPress site."

5. Swartwerk Media Design — promising for a lower-cost build

Swartwerk says it has worked with nonprofits and charities at a discounted rate for more than a decade and specifically advertises a "Giving Back Discount." swartwerk.com That's exactly the sort of smaller shop I'd contact when a full agency engagement is out of reach.

6. TechForChange — if you're in the western suburbs

If your nonprofit is in the western suburbs of Chicago, this is particularly interesting. TechForChange connects nonprofits with professional volunteers and says it builds websites, databases, intake forms and dashboards at no cost. www.techforchange-il.com

A couple of other good nonprofit specialists

Advocate Creative would be worth contacting if the redesign involves messaging/branding as well as the website; they're specifically focused on nonprofits and foundations.

LimeRed Studio, Inc. is another strong Chicago nonprofit/purpose-driven design shop, particularly if you need accessibility, UX, WordPress and content strategy. Their work is likely more substantial-budget, though, so I'd ask about nonprofit pricing rather than assuming they'll be inexpensive.

Mightybytes is excellent for mission-driven organizations and has a particularly strong accessibility/sustainability orientation, but I'd put them in the "ask about nonprofit rates" category rather than the pro-bono-first category.

Who I'd contact, in order

If your budget is $0:
Orbit → Firebelly → Fuzzy Math → TechForChange (if geographically eligible)

If you have $1K–$10K:
Crescendo → Swartwerk → Orbit → Fuzzy Math

If you have $10K+ and want a genuinely strategic redesign:
Orbit → LimeRed → Mightybytes → Advocate Creative

One other resource I'd investigate is Northwestern Medill's Cause Marketing Initiative. It's a student-run program providing pro-bono marketing services to Chicago nonprofits, with projects typically running 2–3 months. It isn't necessarily a complete website-development solution, but it could be useful for strategy, branding, messaging and digital planning. cmi.medill.northwestern.edu

If you tell me your nonprofit's approximate annual budget, current website (URL), and what you can realistically spend ($0 / <$5K / $5–10K / $10K+), I can narrow this to the 3 agencies I'd actually contact and find the right contact/application page for each.

Yes. I’d prioritize agencies with an explicit nonprofit/pro-bono mechanism, rather than simply firms that happen to have nonprofit clients. For a small nonprofit website redesign, these are the Chicago-area names I’d contact first:

My first three calls

1. Firebelly — I'd pursue their pro-bono route first. Their history is unusually compelling: they've worked pro bono with organizations including Chicago Freedom School and Chicago Women's Health Center, and their current capabilities cover the entire website redesign process. firebellydesign.com

Firebelly contact form

2. McGuffin — particularly worth pursuing if you are a 501(c)(3). Their grant is explicitly designed for organizations that don't otherwise have access to agency-quality creative work, and they've actually used it for nonprofit website/UX work. The 2026 application window was March 16–April 15, so that particular cycle has passed, but I'd still contact them about whether they have other nonprofit opportunities or can discuss the next cycle. mcguffincg.com

McGuffin Grant details/application
McGuffin contact page

3. Advocate Creative — I'd approach them directly for a small-nonprofit rate or partial pro bono arrangement. Their nonprofit specialization is unusually deep, and their work spans branding, messaging, websites, campaigns and digital. advocatecreative.com

One more option outside the agency world

If your budget is close to $0, I'd also look at TechForChange. It connects nonprofits in Chicago's western suburbs with professional volunteers and explicitly offers free website development and other technology work. www.techforchange-il.com

TechForChange

And there's an interesting national option, Crescendo Studios, which explicitly offers qualifying nonprofits up to 50% off and selected projects pro bono, including website design/development. I wouldn't put it ahead of the Chicago agencies, but it's worth applying if you're looking for a genuinely discounted engagement. www.crescendostudios.com

Crescendo nonprofit program

How I'd approach them

Don't send a generic "we need a new website" inquiry. Tell them:

• you're a small nonprofit
• your 501(c)(3) status
• what the current site is failing to do
• what you want the new site to accomplish
• approximate number of pages
• whether you need donations, events, volunteer registration, memberships, etc.
• your actual budget, even if it's $0–$5k
• whether you're flexible on WordPress/Squarespace/etc.
• your desired launch date
• and, importantly, that you're open to a pro-bono, discounted, grant, or phased engagement

That gives an agency several ways to say yes rather than forcing them into an all-or-nothing $20k+ redesign.

If you tell me your nonprofit's mission, approximate budget (even "$0"), current website, and whether you're a 501(c)(3), I can narrow this to the 5 best targets and find the right person/contact route for each.