Grants
As new grant opportunities arise, we will post them here along with instructions on how to apply.
Main Street Grant Program
Administered by Allstate
Allstate, in partnership with Chicago-based business support organizations, is offering a total of $1.6 million in capacity building grants to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits on Chicago’s South and West Sides.
Eligibility
- Business must be located in one of the following five areas: Bronzeville, Greater Englewood, South Shore, North Lawndale, Pilsen/Little Village
- Eligibility criteria will be defined by each partner and Allstate and may include potential impact on the community, business credibility, alignment to support businesses in the community, and demonstrated need/use of funds
Deadline: April 30, 2024
We Rise Together Grant
Administered by We Rise Together, Allies for Community Business, and the Small Business Advisory Council
The We Rise Together grant will provide operating grants of up to $12,500 to eligible businesses that wish to expand into a physical storefront.
Eligibility
- Retail space must be located in one of the following community areas: Auburn Gresham, Austin, Back of the Yards, Englewood, Gage Park, North Lawndale, South Lawndale, South Shore, Washington Park, West Lawn
- Business must have generated at least two years of sales
Deadline: May 31, 2024
Small Business Improvement Fund
Administered by the City of Chicago and SomerCor
The City of Chicago’s Small Business Improvement Fund provides small businesses with reimbursable grants for permanent building improvement costs.
Eligibility
- Commercial and industrial business located in Chicago’s TIF districts
- Industrial businesses must have 200 or fewer employees
- Commercial businesses must gross average annual sales under $9M for the prior 3 years
Deadline: Dependent on TIF district