Helping Illinois Small Businesses Build, Prepare & Grow
The Small Business Growth Initiative (SBGI) provides no-cost technical assistance to eligible small businesses in Grundy, Kankakee, Kendall and Will Counties.
Our program helps entrepreneurs strengthen operations, improve financial readiness, and prepare for access to capital through professional accounting, legal, financial advisory and business support services.
Whether you’re launching, stabilizing, or scaling, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence.
Funding provided in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
Who May Be Eligible for No-Cost Support
Businesses may qualify for SBGI technical assistance if they meet one or more of the following:
SEDI-Owned Business – Businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI), including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses.
Very Small Business (VSB) – fewer than 10 employees.
Businesses Located in Eligible Investment Areas – Businesses operating in communities where access to capital has historically been limited.
Eligibility review is required. Program capacity is limited.
My business may qualify as a SEDI-owned business
My business has fewer than 10 employees
Additional businesses may qualify based on business location or owner residence in an eligible CDFI Investment Area.
Check your address to explore eligibility:
Your Path to Business Growth Support
Assessment & Service Planning
We begin by understanding your business goals, financial position, and current stage of growth. From there, we identify the most appropriate technical assistance services and support resources for your needs.
Early opportunities we identify: financial organization, documentation gaps, operational improvements.
Capital Readiness Support
We help eligible businesses strengthen documentation, improve financial readiness, and prepare for conversations with lenders and capital partners.
Support may include: financial review, documentation preparation, and lender-readiness guidance.
Business & Financial Advisory
One-on-one advisory sessions and educational workshops help business owners strengthen operations, improve cash flow awareness, and plan for sustainable growth.
Outcomes may include: action planning, improved financial organization, and stronger capital readiness.
Resources & Continued Engagement
Participants gain access to educational resources, business insights, and ongoing opportunities to stay connected to trusted support networks and community resources.
Stay connected through: workshops, educational content, and strategic resource referrals.
Let’s get you loan-ready—starting today
Our Core Services
What This Grant Covers - At No Cost to You
Accounting & Tax Support
Legal Assistance
Business & Financial Advisory
Capital Readiness Support
How the Program Works
Complete a short application
Tell us about your business, goals, and current needs.
Receive your service plan
We identify priority opportunities and recommend next steps based on your business needs.
Connect with service providers
Eligible participants are connected with the appropriate accounting, legal, financial, or advisory support resources.
Build business readiness
Strengthen operations, improve financial organization, and prepare for future growth opportunities.
