Member event
Mt. Zion Chamber of Commerce
2026 Mt. Zion Community Prayer Breakfast Oct. 21 ↗Also covered by thecounty-chronicle.com
View in the member directory ↗IACCE (Illinois Assn. of Chamber of Commerce Execs.)
Springfield, IL · 142 members
This month1 member story
Member news
Members in the news
News about IACCE (Illinois Assn. of Chamber of Commerce Execs.)'s members from local outlets, checked against the article. Every story links to the source.
Funding & programs
Opportunities
35 open for members · 8 for the chamber
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Offers Relief to Missouri Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought (MO-20027)
Small businesses and private nonprofits in the declared counties with economic losses from drought beginning Nov. 1, 2025 can apply for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (up to $2 million; agricultural producers, farmers and ranchers are not eligible except aquaculture). Economic injury applications are due December 10, 2026; covered counties include Missouri: Barry, Butler, Carter and 30 more; Arkansas: Clay, Craighead, Greene, Mississippi; Illinois: Adams, Hancock, Pike.
- Amount
- The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms of up to 30 years.
- When
- Apply by Dec 10
Ag-related
Who can apply
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs — including faith‑based organizations — with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
GrantIL · statewide
Illinois Grocery Initiative: New Stores in Food Deserts (Round 3)
Grants of $500,000 to $5.2 million to open a new grocery store in an Illinois food desert (a low-income, low-access census tract); this round can also cover setting up an in-store pharmacy. A 25% match is required and applications are due December 9, 2026.
- Amount
- $500,000 - $5,200,000
- When
- Apply by Dec 9
Match required
Who can apply
Grants will be limited to projects that will result in a new grocery store establishment in a food desert.Quoted from dceo.illinois.gov →
GrantIL · statewide
Illinois Grocery Initiative: Grocery Rescue Program
Grants of $100,000 to $1.5 million to reopen a grocery store at an Illinois location where a grocery closed within the past 12 months, in a low-access census tract. A 25% match is required and applications are due by June 30, 2027.
- Amount
- $100,000 - $1,500,000
- When
- Apply by Jun 30, 2027
Match required
Who can apply
Grants will be limited to projects that will result in the reestablishment of a new grocery store in a location that has experienced a grocery store closure in the 12 months prior to application.Quoted from dceo.illinois.gov →
See all 36Show fewer
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Illinois: Oak Lawn Apartment Complex Fire (IL-20026)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Oak Lawn Apartment Complex Fire (incident period May 15, 2026) — primary: Cook (IL); contiguous: DuPage (IL), Kane (IL), Lake (IL), McHenry (IL), Will (IL), Lake (IN). Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; the physical-damage deadline passed on August 10, 2026; economic injury (EIDL) applications due March 10, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by Mar 10, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Wisconsin: Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding (WI-20005)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding (incident period April 13, 2026 through April 23, 2026) — Oneida Nation; primary: 19 counties in WI; contiguous: 41 counties in IA, IL, MN, WI. Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; the physical-damage deadline passed on August 31, 2026; economic injury (EIDL) applications due March 30, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by Mar 30, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Illinois: Severe Storms and Tornadoes (IL-20028)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Severe Storms and Tornadoes (incident period June 17, 2026) — primary: Coles (IL), Effingham (IL); contiguous: 9 counties in IL. Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; the physical-damage deadline passed on September 8, 2026; economic injury (EIDL) applications due April 12, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by Apr 12, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Illinois: Severe Storms and Tornadoes (IL-20027)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Severe Storms and Tornadoes (incident period June 10, 2026 through June 11, 2026) — primary: Cook (IL), LaSalle (IL); contiguous: 15 counties in IL, IN. Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; the physical-damage deadline passed on September 8, 2026; economic injury (EIDL) applications due April 12, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by Apr 12, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Illinois: Severe Storms (IL-20031)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Severe Storms (incident period July 2, 2026 through July 4, 2026) — primary: Kane (IL); contiguous: Cook (IL), DeKalb (IL), DuPage (IL), Kendall (IL), McHenry (IL). Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; physical-damage applications due October 5, 2026, economic injury (EIDL) applications due May 5, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by May 5, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Illinois: Severe Storms and Tornadoes (IL-20033)
SBA low-interest economic injury disaster loans (EIDL) for Severe Storms and Tornadoes (incident period June 17, 2026) — primary: Warren (IL); contiguous: Fulton (IL), Henderson (IL), Knox (IL), McDonough (IL), Mercer (IL). Businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and private nonprofits (economic injury only) can apply; economic injury (EIDL) applications due April 30, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by Apr 30, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Illinois: Severe Storms (IL-20035)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Severe Storms (incident period July 27, 2026) — primary: Cook (IL), Will (IL); contiguous: 8 counties in IL, IN. Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; physical-damage applications due October 19, 2026, economic injury (EIDL) applications due May 18, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by May 18, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 5.750; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 2.875; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
SBA disaster loanIL · disaster area
SBA Disaster Loans — Indiana: Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, Tornadoes, and Flooding (IN-20022)
SBA low-interest disaster loans for Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, Tornadoes, and Flooding (incident period August 11, 2026 through August 24, 2026) — primary: 24 counties in IN; contiguous: 38 counties in IL, IN, KY, MI, OH. Businesses and private nonprofits can apply; physical-damage applications due October 25, 2026, economic injury (EIDL) applications due May 25, 2027.
- Amount
- The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 6.000; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.000; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
- When
- Apply by May 25, 2027
Who can apply
The Interest Rates are (percent): For Physical Damage: Homeowners with Credit Available Elsewhere 6.000; Homeowners without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.000; Businesses with Credit Available Elsewhere 8.000; Businesses without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations with Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625 For Economic Injury: Business and Small Agricultural Cooperatives without Credit Available Elsewhere 4.000; Private Non-Profit Organizations without Credit Available Elsewhere 3.625
GrantNational
R4R Mitigation Grant – $5,000 for pre-disaster projects (Fall 2026)
New for fall 2026: small businesses that take a 15–30 minute disaster resilience course on Verizon's Small Business Digital Ready platform between September 29 and November 15 become eligible to apply for a $5,000 grant for a pre-disaster mitigation project at their business.
- Amount
- a $5,000 Mitigation Grant supporting pre-disaster mitigation projects at your business
- When
- Apply by Nov 15
Who can apply
Between September 29 and November 15, take a 15-30 minute small business disaster resilience course on Verizon's Small Business Digital Ready platform to become eligible to apply for a $5,000 Mitigation Grant supporting pre-disaster mitigation projects at your business.
TrainingNational
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses – business education program
Business education program for established small business owners, run in local in-person cohorts and a national online cohort. Applicants should be an owner or co-owner of a business operating at least two years, with revenue of $75,000 or more in one of the past two fiscal years and at least two employees including the owner. Applications are due about three months before a cohort starts: apply by October 2026 for the February–May 2027 national cohort.
- When
- Open now
Who can apply
Does your business have revenue of $75K or more in one of the past two fiscal years?
GrantNational
Walmart Spark Good Local Grants
Walmart stores, Sam's Clubs and distribution centers give local grants of $250 to $5,000 to 501(c)(3) charities, schools, government entities and faith-based community projects in their service area. The current cycle runs August 1 to November 30; chambers (501(c)(6)) are not eligible.
- Amount
- Grant amounts range from $250 to $5,000.
- When
- Apply by Nov 30
Who can apply
Eligible entities must be a: 501(c)(3) public charity: [...] Government entity (non-501(c)(3)): [...] School: [...] Church or other faith-based organization with a proposed project that benefits the community at large [...] Note: Non-charities, including but not limited to organizations such as 501(c)(4)s, (c)(6)s, and (c)(19)s like homeowner’s associations, civic leagues, or volunteer fire companies, are not eligible.
AcceleratorNational
Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program is a year-long fellowship for women-owned businesses with at least $75,000 in annual revenue, including a $2,000 education grant. Applications for the 2027 cohort are open September 22 to November 17, 2026, and applying is free.
- Amount
- $2,000 education grant (FAQ)
- When
- Apply by Nov 17
Majority (51% or more) owned and controlled by womenA woman entrepreneur who owns the largest or equally largest stake in a qualifying business
Who can apply
For profit, from any industry; Majority (51% or more) owned and controlled by women; Generating minimum of $75,000 annually. There is no maximum revenue requirement.; Formed under United States law and operating in the United States
GrantNational
HerRise MicroGrant
HerSuiteSpot's HerRise MicroGrant funds women-owned US businesses with under $1 million in revenue; each month's applications close on the last day of the month. There is a $15 application fee.
- When
- Open now
Contest$15 feeWomen-owned business
Who can apply
Women-owned business; Businesses currently registered in the US; Less than $1 million in gross revenue; Non-profits, franchise, direct seller, authorized reseller or independent consultant not eligible
GrantNational
Galaxy Grants
Hidden Star's Galaxy Grant awards $2,500 and is free to apply. The current deadline is October 31, 2026, with winners announced the following week.
- Amount
- $2,500 Galaxy Grant – FREE to Apply!
- When
- Apply by Oct 31
Contestsupporting women & minority business owners
Who can apply
Each of these contests will be separate and are open only to persons over 18 years of age and who has set up any free or paid Galaxy of Stars membership account prior to or concurrent with entering or participating in the contest.Quoted from galaxyofstars.org →
GrantNational
Amber Grants
WomensNet awards three $10,000 Amber Grants to women-owned businesses every month, and three $50,000 grants at year end. Each month's entry period ends on the last day of the month; there is a $15 application fee with a fee waiver on request.
- Amount
- Each month, three (3) $10,000 Amber Grants will be awarded. [...] three (3) of the monthly winners will receive an additional $50,000 Year-End Grant.
- When
- Open now
Contest$15 feewomen (18 years or older) who own at least 50% of a business
Who can apply
Open to women (18 years or older) who own at least 50% of a business based in the United States or Canada. Eligible businesses include pre-revenue ventures, idea-stage startups, and revenue-generating nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits whose primary activity is charitable giving are not eligible.Quoted from ambergrantsforwomen.com →
GrantNational
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready $10,000 national grant
Verizon and LISC select 10 small businesses each month from June through December 2026 for $10,000 grants. Owners unlock the one-time application by completing two free Digital Ready courses or events in 2026.
- Amount
- 10 small businesses will be selected for grants each month [...] $10,000 grants
- When
- Open now
Random drawingContest
Who can apply
Owners of for-profit small businesses based in the United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands who are 18 or older may apply. Owners of multiple businesses may apply for one business only.
GrantIL · statewide
Federal Grant Support Program (Round 2)
State matching grants of up to $2 million (up to 1:1 with the applicant’s own cash) for Illinois businesses, nonprofits, schools and local governments that are applying for a competitive federal grant. Apply at least three weeks before the federal deadline; the award is contingent on winning the federal grant.
- Amount
- The Department may provide a grant up to $2,000,000 that entails up to a 1:1 match of the applicant’s cash contribution towards the project.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
Applicant must be the primary applicant on a federal award application being submitted directly to a grant-making federal agency.Quoted from dceo.illinois.gov →
GrantIL · statewide
Illinois Grocery Initiative: Equipment Upgrades (Round 3)
Reimbursement grants of $25,000 to $250,000 for independently owned or cooperative Illinois grocery stores to buy and install energy-efficient refrigeration, HVAC and lighting. A 25% match is required and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Amount
- $25,000 - $250,000
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
This grant opportunity will be limited to existing independently owned grocers or cooperatives with fewer than 500 employees and no more than 4 grocery stores.Quoted from dceo.illinois.gov →
GrantNational
NASE Growth Grants
NASE gives members grants of up to $4,000 for specific business needs such as marketing, hiring or equipment. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed quarterly; NASE membership is required.
- Amount
- Apply for a business development grant from the NASE worth up to $4,000!
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Membership required
Who can apply
To be eligible, the applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application and must maintain such good standing continuously through the date on which the award is conferred.
GrantNational
Freed Fellowship Grant
Freed Fellowship picks one US small business owner each month for a $500 grant, and Fellows are considered for a $2,500 year-end grant. Applications are rolling and cost $19.
- Amount
- Each month we select one Freed Fellow as the recipient of a $500 no-strings-attached grant. Fellows are then considered for our $2,500 year-end grant.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Contest$19 fee
Who can apply
Any micro or small business owner in the US is eligible. We especially encourage women, minorities and others considered underrepresented or overlooked to apply.
AcceleratorNational
Cultivate Small Business
Santander's free Cultivate Small Business program gives early-stage food businesses a 12-week curriculum, mentorship and capital grants. Applications for the spring cohort are accepted November through January.
- Amount
- capital grants
- When
- Opens in November
Who can apply
In operation for at least one year; Are working full time in the business and have fewer than 10 total full-time equivalent employees; Revenues between $25,000 and $1,000,000 in the last calendar year; Located in the United States
LoanIL · statewide
Pursuit SBA Microloan
Pursuit, an SBA microloan intermediary and CDFI, makes SBA microloans of up to $50,000 for working capital, debt refinancing and equipment to small businesses (and certain nonprofit childcare centers) in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Illinois and Delaware.
- Amount
- The Microloan program provides loans up to $50,000 to help small businesses and certain not-for-profit childcare centers start up and expand.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
The Microloan program provides loans up to $50,000 to help small businesses and certain not-for-profit childcare centers start up and expand.
LoanIL · statewide
Ascendus Business Term Loan
Ascendus, a nonprofit CDFI lender, offers small business term loans of up to $100,000 to owners who need money to grow their business, available to businesses nationwide except in Vermont.
- Amount
- For small business owners who need money to grow their business, Ascendus offers loans up to $100,000.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
For small business owners who need money to grow their business, Ascendus offers loans up to $100,000. Qualified businesses will be located nationwide, except in Vermont.
LoanIL · county program
Greenwood Archer Capital Small Business Loans
Greenwood Archer Capital lends $10,000 to $500,000 with no prepayment penalties, often without collateral, underwriting on character, commitment and community impact, to businesses in the Chicago / Cook County area.
- Amount
- GAC provides flexible loans ranging from $10,000 to $500,000 , with competitive rates and no prepayment penalties.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
Many loans do not require collateral because we underwrite based on character, commitment, and community impact, not just credit scores.
LoanIL · statewide
DreamSpring Small Business Loan
DreamSpring, a nonprofit CDFI, makes small business loans of $1,000 to $250,000 (24-72 month terms, fixed rate) to startups and existing businesses in 27 states for equipment, inventory, leasehold improvements, supplies, vehicles and working capital.
- Amount
- DreamSpring small business loans range from $1,000 to $250,000 with a term of 24-72 months and a fixed interest rate .
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
Whether you’re a startup entrepreneur or existing small business owner, DreamSpring small business loans are designed to fit your business needs.
LoanIL · statewide
A4CB Term Loans and Lines of Credit
Allies for Community Business lends $500 to $500,000 in term loans and lines of credit to early, emerging and established businesses in Illinois and Indiana, underwriting on debt history and cash flow rather than credit scores, with free coaching.
- Amount
- Allies for Community Business offers term loans and lines of credit between $500 and $500,000 to early, emerging, and established businesses in Illinois and Indiana.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
We serve businesses located in Illinois or Indiana, as well as entrepreneurs who live in these states and operate home-based or online businesses.
LoanIL · statewide
Accion Opportunity Fund Small Business Term Loan
Accion Opportunity Fund, a national nonprofit CDFI, offers small business term loans up to $250,000 with repayment terms up to 36 months for businesses with at least 2 years in business and $300,000+ in annual sales.
- Amount
- Loans up to $250k
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
Must be at least 18 years or older Minimum 2 years in business $300,000+ in annual sales 20% ownership of business All shareholders must be either a US citizen or permanent resident
0% loanIL · statewide
Kiva U.S. 0% interest loans
Kiva U.S. offers crowdfunded 0% interest loans of $1,000 to $15,000 for U.S. small business owners, with no fees, no collateral and no minimum credit score. Borrowers first invite friends, family and others to lend during a private fundraising period, then crowdfund publicly on Kiva; businesses in Nevada and North Dakota are not accepted.
- Amount
- you can qualify for a no-interest, no-fee, and no-collateral loan between $1,000-$15,000.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
Your business must be registered within the United States, and you must physically reside in the United States, in order to be eligible for a Kiva U.S. loan.Quoted from kiva.org →
Technical assistanceIL · statewide
Illinois SBDC Network — no-cost business advising
The Illinois SBDC Network provides no-cost, confidential one-on-one advising and training to help Illinois entrepreneurs start and grow small businesses, through local centers statewide.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
Illinois Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), working in cooperation with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), were established in 1984 to assist Illinois entrepreneurs to start and grow their small businesses by providing no-cost confidential one-on-one advising and training.
Disaster helpNational
Small Business Readiness for Resiliency (R4R) – $5,000 disaster recovery grant
Small businesses with 500 or fewer employees register in advance by completing a free five-minute preparedness checklist; if their county later comes under a state emergency or disaster declaration and they have at least $5,000 in uncovered losses, they can apply for a $5,000 recovery grant. Nonprofits are not funded.
- Amount
- Selected businesses receive $5,000 and must document at least $5,000 in disaster-related losses.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
500 employees or fewer Complete the free checklist (5 minutes) Located in the U.S. or territories (includes Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands, etc.)
Technical assistanceNational
APEX Accelerators — no-cost government contracting help
APEX Accelerators (the program formerly known as the Procurement Technical Assistance Program), supported by the Department of War's Office of Small Business Programs, offer no-cost guidance and one-on-one help for businesses entering or growing in federal, state and local government contracting, through more than 300 offices nationwide. Use the service-area locator to find your local office.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
The APEX Accelerators program provides the education and training to ensure that all businesses become capable of participating in federal, state, and local government contracts.Quoted from apexaccelerators.us →
Technical assistanceNational
SCORE — free business mentoring
SCORE offers free, confidential mentoring, for the life of your business, to any aspiring or established owner of a U.S.-based business, in all industries and stages; nonprofits are also served. Enter your ZIP code on the page to be matched with a mentor.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Who can apply
SCORE mentoring is a free service offered to any aspiring or established owners of a U.S.-based business.
LoanNational
LiftFund Small Business Loans
LiftFund, a nonprofit CDFI, makes small business loans for working capital, equipment, inventory, leasehold improvements, vehicles and commercial real estate to startups and existing businesses, including owners with limited credit, collateral or experience.
- Amount
- financing options can range from $500 to $1 Million
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Fee
Who can apply
Whether you have limited credit, collateral or experience, we’ll work with you to find funding that allows you to build your credit and improve your finances. LiftFund offers small business loans to entrepreneurs nationwide.
For IACCE (Illinois Assn. of Chamber of Commerce Execs.)
Grants and programs the chamber itself can apply for.
GrantIL · statewide
Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (SBTTAC) — Region 4 operator
USDOT will award one cooperative agreement of $250,143.33 to a nonprofit organization that will establish and operate the Region 4 Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center, which helps small businesses in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska and Tennessee compete for transportation contracts. Chambers of commerce, trade associations, community-based organizations and colleges with transportation-contracting expertise and an office in the region can apply on Grants.gov by 11:59 PM EST on October 31, 2026. A 15% cost share is required.
- Amount
- The total funding to be awarded across the six regions is $2.3 million. Region 4 will be awarded $250,143.33.
- When
- Apply by Oct 31
Match required
Who can apply
To be eligible for this Cooperative Agreement, an applicant must be an established nonprofit, community-based organization, transportation-related trade association, chamber of commerce, college or university, community college, faith-based institution; Historically Black College or Universities (HBCUs), or any other transportation-related nonprofit organization that has the documented experience and capacity necessary to operate and administer a coordinated delivery system that prepares small businesses to compete for transportation-related contracts.Quoted from apply07.grants.gov →
GrantIL · statewide
Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers (EEC) Program
Grants of $250,000 to $500,000 for Illinois nonprofits, including chambers of commerce and local development corporations, to run centers that give entrepreneurship training and technical help to small and disadvantaged business owners. A match equal to 100% of the grant (at least half in cash) is required; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Amount
- $250,000 - $500,000
- When
- Apply by Nov 6
Nonprofits onlyMatch required
Who can apply
Pursuant to 20 ILCS 605/605-503 1, the purpose of the EEC Program is to provide grants to eligible career education agencies and not-for-profit corporations, including, but not limited to, local development corporations, chambers of commerce, community-based business outreach centers and other community based organizations that offer technical assistance, training, and access to resources necessary to startups or existing businesses including, but not limited to, Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individual (SEDI) business owners and/or Very Small Businesses (VSBs) 2 , entrepreneurs, and/or dislocated workers.Quoted from dceo.illinois.gov →
GrantIL · statewide
International Tourism Grant Program (Round 2)
Matching grants of $10,000 to $200,000 for Illinois certified convention and visitors bureaus outside Chicago to market their destinations to international travelers. Applications are taken first come, first served until funds run out or January 31, 2027.
- Amount
- $10,000 - $200,000
- When
- Apply by Jan 31, 2027
Match required
Who can apply
Certified Local Tourism and Convention Bureau with an international product sold by tour operators and listed with receptive operators may apply for Program funding.Quoted from omb.illinois.gov →
See all 8Show fewer
GrantIL · statewide
Federal Grant Support Program (Round 2)
State matching grants of up to $2 million (up to 1:1 with the applicant’s own cash) for Illinois businesses, nonprofits, schools and local governments that are applying for a competitive federal grant. Apply at least three weeks before the federal deadline; the award is contingent on winning the federal grant.
- Amount
- The Department may provide a grant up to $2,000,000 that entails up to a 1:1 match of the applicant’s cash contribution towards the project.
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
Applicant must be the primary applicant on a federal award application being submitted directly to a grant-making federal agency.Quoted from dceo.illinois.gov →
GrantIL · statewide
EDA Planning and Local Technical Assistance — Chicago Regional Office (FY 2021–2023 NOFO)
EDA grants for economic development planning and local technical assistance (such as feasibility studies, impact analyses, disaster resiliency plans and project planning) in economically distressed areas, handled by EDA's Chicago Regional Office. Award ceiling $300,000; cost share required; applications accepted on a continuing basis through EDA's EDGE portal.
- Amount
- Grants.gov: Award Ceiling $300,000; Award Floor $0
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
Pursuant to section 3 of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. § 3122) (PWEDA) and EDA’s regulation at 13 C.F.R. § 300.3, the following types of entities are eligible to receive funding assistance from EDA: 1. District Organizations (as defined in 13 C.F.R. § 300.3); 2. Indian Tribes or a consortium of Indian Tribes; 3. States, cities, or other political subdivisions of a State, including a special purpose unit of a State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions; 4. Institutions of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; or 5. Public or private non-profit organizations or associations acting in cooperation with officials of a political subdivision of a State.
GrantNational
EDA Disaster Supplemental (FY 2025 NOFO)
EDA grants for long-term economic recovery projects in areas with a Presidential major disaster declaration for natural disasters in calendar years 2023 and 2024. Award ceiling $50,000,000; cost share required; applications accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted or the NOFO is replaced or canceled.
- Amount
- Grants.gov: Award Ceiling $50,000,000; Award Floor $0; Estimated Total Program Funding $1,447,000,000
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
Eligible applicants under the FY25 Disaster program include a(n): District organization of an EDA-designated Economic Development District (EDD); Indian tribe or a consortium of Indian tribes; State, county, city, or other political subdivision of a state, including a special purpose unit of a state or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions, institution of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; public or private nonprofit organization or association acting in cooperation with officials of a political subdivision of a state; an economic development organization; or a public-private partnership for public infrastructure. EDA is not authorized to provide grants or cooperative agreements to individuals or for-profit entities under this NOFO. Applications from individuals or for-profit entities will not be considered for funding.
GrantNational
EDA Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance (FY 2025 PWEAA NOFO)
EDA grants for public works infrastructure and economic adjustment projects that support economic development in distressed communities and regions. Awards from $100,000 up to $30,000,000; cost share required; applications accepted on an ongoing basis through EDA's EDGE portal.
- Amount
- Grants.gov: Award Ceiling $30,000,000; Award Floor $100,000
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
Pursuant to Section 3(4) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. § 3122(4)(a)) and 13 C.F.R. § 300.3 (Eligible Recipient), eligible applicants for EDA financial assistance under the Public Works and EAA programs include a(n): (i) District Organization of an EDA-designated Economic Development District; (ii) Indian Tribe or a consortium of Indian Tribes; (iii) State, county, city, or other political subdivision of a State, including a special purpose unit of a State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions; (iv) institution of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; or (v) public or private non-profit organization or association acting in cooperation with officials of a political subdivision of a State. Individuals and for-profit entities are not eligible for funding under this NOFO.
GrantNational
EDA Disaster Supplemental (FY 2023 NOFO)
EDA grants for long-term economic recovery projects in areas with a Presidential major disaster declaration for natural disasters in calendar years 2021 and 2022. Award ceiling $30,000,000; cost share required; applications accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted or the NOFO is replaced or canceled.
- Amount
- Grants.gov: Award Ceiling $30,000,000; Award Floor $0; Estimated Total Program Funding $483,000,000
- When
- Rolling, apply any time
Match required
Who can apply
District Organization; Indian Tribe or a consortium of Indian Tribes; State, county, city, or other political subdivision of a State, including a special purpose unit of a State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions; Institution of higher education or a consortium of institutions of higher education; or Public or private non-profit organization or association acting in cooperation with officials of a political subdivision of a State. The project of an eligible applicant must be able to meet area eligibility requirements to be considered for funding under this Disaster Supplemental NOFO. Such eligibility is predicated upon the project being located in or primarily serving one or more communities impacted by Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, and of wildfires, flooding, and other natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2021 and 2022. More specifically, consistent with 13 C.F.R. parts 301 and 307, EDA will determine area eligibility pursuant to the applicable Federal disaster declaration under the Stafford Act, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designation of areas as eligible for public assistance or individual assistance due to the declared disasters listed on FEMA’s website (www.fema.gov/disaster/). For construction projects (including design and engineering), the project must be located within an eligible county. For non-construction projects, the project’s scope of work must primarily benefit eligible counties, and stakeholders representing those eligible counties must be directly engaged in the project.
Retired programs (3) — still listed on many chamber sites; don’t send members here
- Fast Break for Small BusinessEnded
Fast Break for Small Business, run by LegalZoom and Accion Opportunity Fund, ended after its final round in 2024. It is no longer accepting applications.
Official page: Fast Break for Small Business - FedEx Small Business Grant ContestEnded
FedEx retired its Small Business Grants Program, which ran from 2012 through 2024. Lists that still show it are out of date.
Official page: FedEx Small Business Grant Contest - T-Mobile Hometown GrantsEnded
T-Mobile's Hometown Grants, up to $50,000 for projects in towns under 50,000 people, ended with its final 26 recipients announced June 25, 2026. It is no longer accepting applications.
Official page: T-Mobile Hometown Grants
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A recent IACCE (Illinois Assn. of Chamber of Commerce Execs.) member story, as a post in your colors.
Member event
Mt. Zion Chamber of Commerce
2026 Mt. Zion Community Prayer Breakfast Oct. 21
2026 Mt. Zion Community Prayer Breakfast Oct. 21
IACCE (Illinois Assn. of Chamber of Commerce Execs.)Decatur Tribune · Oct 12, 2026
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