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
Illinois Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program
Tax credit program for historic preservation projects
EDGE Agreements
Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) tax credit program
VA GPD Per Diem Only NOFO
The Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program is accepting applications for grants to support per diem only.
VA Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program
The Supportive Services for Veteran Families is accepting applications for grants to support veteran families.
USDA Rural Business Loans & Grants
If your business is located in a rural area, the USDA offers loans, loan guarantees, and grants to help you start, expand, or add value to your business. Funding supports job creation, innovation, farm‑based products, energy upgrades, and more.
SBIR & STTR Innovation Grant Programs
Competitive grant funding from 11 federal agencies. These programs offer free grant money (not loans!) to help small businesses develop and test new products, ideas, or technology.
Yeego Action Grant
Provides up to $2,500 in quick‑response funding for Native artists and culture bearers to cover emergencies, travel, medical hardships, and other artistic needs.
#MomsMeanBusiness
Covers business formation costs for mothers, helping them form an LLC, track expenses, secure a business name, and more.
Hivers and Strivers Investment Program
Provides equity investments ranging from $250,000 to $1 million to veteran‑owned and veteran‑led businesses.
HerRise MicroGrant
Provides financial aid to U.S.-registered businesses majority‑owned by women of color with innovative community solutions.
Gold House Ventures
Invests in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) entrepreneurs and offers a startup accelerator.
Female Founders Fund
Invests in women‑owned and women‑run startups across B2B, consumer, healthcare, fintech, and social sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about business grants in Illinois