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
Small Business Readiness for Resiliency Program
The program helps small businesses put plans in place to prepare for disaster and also provides immediate emergency funding when necessary.
Skip Instant Grants
The Skip Instant Grants offer funding opportunities with shorter turnaround windows.
Hustler's Microgrant
The Hustler's MicroGrant offers $1,000 in funding to support passionate entrepreneurs in their small business ventures.
The Freed Fellowship Grant
The Freed Fellowship Grant offers a monthly $500 grant to U.S.-based small business owners.
Awesome Foundation Grants
The Awesome Foundation awards grants of $1,000 to individuals and groups looking to fund various projects.
500 Global Flagship Accelerator
The 500 Global Flagship Accelerator program offers a four-month accelerator program based in San Francisco, along with a $150,000 investment.
U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)
The EDA offers ongoing funding opportunities for projects that support regional and national economic development.
U.S. Small Business Administration State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
The STEP program distributes federal funds through state entities to assist small businesses desiring to export products.
U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
The MBDA offers targeted grants and loans designed to aid minority-owned businesses.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Business Programs
The USDA's Rural Development Business Programs provide financial support and technical assistance to promote rural business growth.
New York State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
New York State has been awarded more than $500 million in federal SSBCI funding to help small, and traditionally disadvantaged, businesses succeed— with a focus on post-pandemic recovery.
Small Business Environmental Support Office
Provides support for small businesses on environmental issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about business grants in Illinois