Designing a Better Chicago highlights our city’s extraordinary design legacy — the local talent, resources, and community efforts that have long advanced civic good through design. Launched in 2020 with the NeoCon Design Impact grant program and expanded in 2024 through the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Built Environment grant program, this initiative celebrates the individuals, organizations, public art, and programs that shape Chicago. It invites residents and visitors to reflect on how design improves civic life. Join the 2025 grant winners (to be announced) as they share their work, the impact they are making on Chicago, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.