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
Black Girl Ventures Grant
The Black Girl Ventures Grant provides funding to support black women entrepreneurs.
SBIR Grant
The SBIR Grant provides funding to support small businesses in research and development.
State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) provides funding to support small businesses in expanding their exports.
National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC) Grant
The NWBOC Grant provides funding to support women-owned businesses and promote business development.
Ladies Who Launch Grant
The Ladies Who Launch Grant provides funding to support women and nonbinary entrepreneurs.
National Women's Business Council (NWBC) Grant
The NWBC Grant provides funding to support women-owned businesses and promote economic outcomes.
Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) Grant
The WIPP Grant provides funding to support women-owned businesses and promote public policy solutions.
The U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce Grant
The U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce Grant provides funding to support women-owned businesses.
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Growth Grant
The NAWBO Growth Grant provides funding to support the growth and development of women-owned businesses.
Founders First CDC Pride Grant
The Founders First CDC Pride Grant provides funding to support businesses owned by LGBTQ+ individuals.
National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
The NASE Growth Grants provide up to $4,000 to assist with training, marketing, and more.
Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (MREIDL)
The MREIDL helps small businesses cover operating expenses up to $2 million if an essential employee is called to active duty in the Reserve or National Guard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about business grants in Illinois