Illinois Small Business Grants & Funding Programs
Illinois supports small businesses through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Intersect Illinois, and numerous local programs. Chicago and other major cities offer additional grant opportunities for entrepreneurs.
DCEO Programs
The Illinois DCEO offers various grant programs including the Advantage Illinois program, Small Business Development Loan program, and industry-specific incentives for manufacturing and technology companies.
Chicago Business Grants
Chicago offers numerous small business programs including the Chicago Small Business Resiliency Fund, Neighborhood Opportunity Fund, and various TIF district incentives for qualifying businesses.
Regional Programs
Illinois regions outside Chicago have their own economic development programs. Intersect Illinois can connect businesses with regional grants, tax incentives, and workforce training funds.
Illinois Business Grants
120 grants found
IFundWomen Universal Grant Application
The IFundWomen Universal Grant Application is a resource for female entrepreneurs seeking grants.
The David Bohnett Foundation
The David Bohnett Foundation awards grants to socially active businesses that foster acceptance, develop future leaders, and connect communities through technology.
Comcast Innovation Fund
The Comcast Innovation Fund is accepting applications for the 2026 grant year, providing financial support ranging from $3,000 to $150,000 for projects with a one-year duration that advances internet technology and public policy.
Carhartt For the Love of Labor Grant
Carhartt created the Love of Labor grant program to help connect workers with trade programs in their local communities during an unprecedented labor shortage.
America's Seed Fund
America's Seed Fund, sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF), offers up to $2 million for U.S.-based startups and small businesses that are developing innovative technology.
Verizon Small Business Digital Readiness Program
The program helps small business owners succeed in a digital world by providing a free online curriculum, expert coaching, and peer networking.
Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant
The Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant provides $2,500 in non-dilutive funding to small businesses for essential expenses like rent, inventory, or marketing.
U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)
The EDA offers ongoing funding opportunities for projects that support regional and national economic development.
U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
The MBDA offers targeted grants and loans designed to aid minority-owned businesses.
The Wish Local Empowerment Program
Assists Black-owned small businesses by dedicating a $2 million fund to support approximately 4,000 Wish Local partners.
StartOut Scholarship Program
Offers scholarship opportunities to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who wish to participate in their Founder Program and become a Giving Member.
PEDIGREE Foundation Disaster Relief Grant
Provides up to $5,000 to nonprofit animal welfare organizations responding to state- or FEMA-declared disasters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about business grants in Illinois