How It Works

Strategic Political Giving Made Simple

Invest To Elect Illinois combines research-driven candidate selection with exclusive access to Democratic leaders.

Our process ensures your political investments have maximum impact on reproductive freedom and Democratic victories.

Our Process: From Research to Results

1. Investment Strategy Committee Research

Our experienced committee identifies high-impact races where member support makes the biggest difference:

‍• Federal races: Competitive U.S. Senate and House seats
Statewide races: Governors, Supreme Court justices, Attorneys General
Voter engagement organizations in key battleground states

Research criteria: Race competitiveness, candidate viability, impact on reproductive rights, strategic timing.

2. Candidate & Organization Selection

The Investment Strategy Committee presents vetted recommendations to our Steering Committee for approval. Only candidates and organizations that align with our pro-choice mission receive ITE endorsement.

3. Event Planning & Member Communication

8-12 annual events featuring approved candidates and organizations:

In-person and virtual fundraisers with intimate candidate access
Educational sessions with political strategists and campaign experts
Member communications via biweekly newsletter, private Facebook group, and event invitations

4. Member Participation

You choose your level of engagement:

• Annual commitment:
$3,000 in donations to hosted candidates/organizations ($1,500 first year)
Event attendance: RSVP required, typical minimums $1,000 for candidates, $500 for organizations
Flexible giving: Meet your commitment throughout the year, not just at events
Direct donations: All contributions go straight to campaigns and organizations

Membership Communications

How We Keep You Informed

• Biweekly newsletter with political analysis, candidate spotlights, and event announcements
• Event invitations with candidate backgrounds and giving instructions
• Private Facebook group for member discussions and updates
• Monthly Off The Record Zoom calls with political insidersMember portal access on our website

How You Participate

• RSVP to all invitations (including regrets)
Choose your candidates based on your priorities and interests
Make direct donations using provided links and instructions
Join committees for deeper engagement (optional)
Invite guests to events ($250 per person, $100 for young people)

What Makes ITE Different

• Research-Driven Selection: Every candidate recommendation comes with detailed analysis of why the race matters and how your support creates impact.
• Direct Relationships:
Small group settings where you meet candidates personally, not just hear them speak to large crowds.
• Strategic Timing:
We identify when to invest for maximum influence on election outcomes.
• Community Support:
150 women helping each other navigate political giving and build lasting civic engagement.
• No Money Through ITE:
Your donations go directly to candidates and organizations—we just facilitate the connections.