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
154 grants found
Hivers and Strivers Investment Program
The Hivers and Strivers Investment Program funds projects submitted by veteran-owned and veteran-led businesses.
HerRise MicroGrant
The HerRise MicroGrant offers financial aid to U.S.-registered businesses that are majority-owned by women of color.
Gold House Ventures
Gold House Ventures invests in Asian and Pacific Islander (API) entrepreneurs whose companies are transforming industries.
Female Founders Fund
The Female Founders Fund aims to invest in up-and-coming women-owned and women-run startups.
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.
The Big Idea Grant
The Big Idea Grant by Yippity Doo offers ambitious women entrepreneurs $1,000 to support their business ventures, along with access to mentorship, resources, and a wealth mindset coaching group.
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.
Amber Grant Foundation
The Amber Grant Foundation awards a series of grants throughout the year, including the $10,000 monthly Amber grant and three $25,000 annual Amber grants.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about business grants in Illinois