Nicor Gas

Nicor Gas is the largest natural gas distribution company in Illinois, serving over 2.3 million customers across the northern part of the state. While its primary business is operating as a utility, it also functions as a community investor through extensive charitable giving programs and its foundation, Nicor Illinois Community Investment (NICI). These initiatives provide grants and support for economic development, workforce training, environmental stewardship, and basic human needs. The company's investment activities are philanthropic and community-focused, such as the annual Multicultural Innovator Award, which provides grants to minority-led startups in the clean energy sector.