The SBA helps small businesses use AI to boost efficiency, cut costs, and compete effectively, offering guidance on tools, ethics, and practical implementation.
National
Alford Group’s free fundraising resources include blog posts, case studies, toolkits & webinars to help nonprofits strengthen strategy, boost campaigns and engage donors.
National
Take the free Alford Group Moves Management Quiz to assess your fundraising readiness across 7 core areas like strategy, structure, systems and skills.
National
Alford Group provides nonprofits with tools, case studies, webinars, and guides to improve fundraising, leadership, and strategy for greater impact and organizational growth.
National
Allies for Community Business offers term loans and lines of credit between $500 and $100,000 to early, emerging, and established businesses in Illinois and Indiana.
For more information, visit a4cb.org
Located in Chicago, but serving all of Illinois and Indiana
Allies for Community Business offers free one-on-one and group coaching to help entrepreneurs strengthen their business plans, operations, and finances.
Located in Chicago, but serving all of Illinois and Indiana
Allies for Community Business offers flexible loans from $500 to $500,000 for small businesses in Illinois and Indiana, including term loans, lines of credit, and revenue-based financing paired with coaching.
Illinois, Indiana
The Neighborhood Entrepreneurship Lab connects proven small business owners with advisors, strategists, and partners who provide capital and hands-on support to help them scale and build community wealth.
Located in Chicago, but serving all of Illinois and Indiana
It’s the Ashoka Changemaker Index™ (CMI) — a free digital tool from Ashoka that lets individuals, schools, teams, and organizations assess and develop their changemaking skills, access learning resources, and track progress toward positive social and environmental impact.
National
Board Boot Camp is a comprehensive, interactive, multi-day training for individuals interested in nonprofit board service; inclusive of networking/connection with organizations recruiting for board members.
For more information, visit CFW.org
Chicago
Business Consortium Fund’s offers free webinars, workshops, and one-on-one coaching to help business owners prepare financing, understand key ratios, manage cash flow, and navigate supplier programs.
National
BCF Capital offers business loans from $25K–$350K (up to $1M for existing clients) and lines of credit $100K–$350K with flexible terms and fast online approval.
National
The SBA guides entrepreneurs in writing business plans, offering templates, examples, and resources to structure, run, and grow a business effectively.
National
Black fashion designers: Apply for the Frazier Family Foundation x CFDA Empowered Vision Award, offering a $100,000 grant, tailored mentorship, expert consulting and national visibility to help grow your business.
Apply by October 15, 2026.
National
ChiBizHub provides the resources you need for starting a business, business plans, licensing, tax information, financing and more.
For more information, visit a4cb.org
Chicago, Illinois, Indiana
Chicago’s Neighborhood Business Development Centers provide free, local support to small business owners, offering guidance, resources, and services to start and grow businesses.
Chicago
A Chicago‑based nonprofit that funds and supports organizations working to expand economic security, end violence, improve health access, and advance reproductive justice for women, girls, and gender‑expansive people.
For more information, visit CFW.org
Chicago, IL
Chicago Innovation Fellows is a 6-month program connecting executives to Chicago’s innovation ecosystem through projects, coaching, and experiential learning, blending theory with practical application.
Chicago, Illinois
The Women's Mentoring Co-Op pairs early-career women with established leaders across industries, fostering growth through mentorship, networking, and experiential learning in Chicago's innovation ecosystem.
Chicago, Illinois
The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Chicagoland Chamber offers free one-on-one advising, workshops, and resources to help start or grow your business.
Illinois
CO— by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers small business owners actionable advice, expert content, tools, and resources to help start, run, and grow successful companies.
National
Comcast RISE is supporting the growth of all small businesses and entrepreneurs committed to uplifting their local communities. The program is built to help businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth.
Cook County Small Business Source offers free resources, advising, and funding support to help local small businesses start, manage, and grow.
Illinois
Protect your small business with SBA cybersecurity tips: train employees, secure networks, update software, use MFA, back up data, and plan for cyber threats.
National
Illinois
Elevate by Principal is a digital platform that provides self-serve access to expense savings through name brand suppliers as well as one-on-one support to achieve additional savings through a tailored spend review.
For more information, visit ElevateByPrincipal.com
National
EDLI (Entrepreneurial Development and Leadership Institute) is a Chicago‑based nonprofit that builds an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem by helping Black, Latino, and women business owners grow, prepare for funding, and connect with tailored resources and support.
For more information, visit Edli.org
Chicago, IL
Fidelity’s Education Center offers tools, guides, and training that help small businesses and employees understand 401(k)s, boost financial wellness, and confidently manage retirement benefits.
National
Fidelity’s Advantage 401(k) provides small businesses an affordable, easy-to-manage 401(k) plan with transparent pricing and streamlined setup.
National
Whether you’re starting your own healthcare practice or simply seeking a banking partner that shares your sense of purpose, we’re here to support you with thoughtful, personalized financial solutions designed around your goals.
National
SBA financial guide: track assets and liabilities, analyze costs, keep accurate records, and use resources to make informed decisions and grow your small business.
National
First Women's Bank provides digital banking, capital solutions, and resources to support women entrepreneurs and close the gender lending gap.
National
First Women's Bank offers business checking, lending, treasury management, and digital banking, empowering businesses with equitable access to capital and financial tools.
National
Business Money IQ on First Women’s Bank’s Resource Center offers practical financial education, including video demos and advice to boost your business acumen and confidence.
National
First Women's Bank provides commercial loans for equipment, inventory, vehicles, and real estate, supporting equitable access to capital and growth.
National
Money IQ is FWB’s financial literacy hub — offering interactive tools, articles, and resources to help you build your financial knowledge, confidence, and money management skills.
National
First Women's Bank offers SBA 7(a) and 504 loans to support women entrepreneurs in acquiring or expanding businesses, such as purchasing commercial real estate.
National
Fiserv’s Small Business, Big Impact initiative invests in small and diverse businesses through grants, consulting and tech solutions to boost preparedness and community resilience.
National
The Mission Sustainability Initiative (MSI) at Forefront supports Illinois-based nonprofits in exploring strategic partnerships through confidential consultations, educational resources, and $5,000 grants for partnership readiness.
Illinois
Forefront's Nonprofit Legal Resources page offers Illinois nonprofits access to free and low-cost legal assistance, including pro bono services, educational materials, and referrals to specialized support.
Chicago, Illinois
Learn to use AI to save time, tackle tasks, brainstorm solutions, and grow your business with tutorials, coaching, and tools designed for busy small business owners.
National
Grow your business online with Google’s free products and AI-powered tools, helping you reach more customers, stand out, and work smarter.
National
Provides eligible nonprofits free Google tools like Workspace and Ad Grants to boost efficiency, donor connections, and impact with apps, email, and ad credits.
National
Grants.gov makes it easier for nonprofits and government partners to find and apply for federal grants by centralizing opportunities and streamlining the application process.
National
Greenwood Archer Capital provides $10K–$500K loans to small businesses in historically disinvested communities, offering flexible capital to support growth, stability, and long-term success.
Illinois
Understand how credit scores work and why they matter. This session helps participants learn how credit is evaluated, how to strengthen credit profiles, and how credit impacts access to capital.
Tuesday, November 17 | 4:30pm - 7:00pm
Jeffery Java | 7104 S Jeffery Blvd | Chicago, IL 60649
Illinois
Plan for your business's future beyond daily operations. This workshop introduces succession-planning concepts, ownership transitions, and strategies to protect your business's long-term value.
Tuesday, October 13 | 4:30pm - 7:00pm
University of Chicago Law School | 1111 E 60th St | 1st Floor, Room V | Chicago, IL 60637
Illinois
Greenwood Archer Capital's Owners Table Workshop Series equips entrepreneurs with practical tools, expert guidance, and peer insights to strengthen operations and grow their businesses. Free and open to all, these workshops pair capital with the knowledge needed to thrive.
Illinois
Join Grow with Google for training and live workshops to boost productivity with AI, connect with customers, and sell online, no matter your stage in the entrepreneurial journey.
National
Growth Corp is a nonprofit SBA 504 lender that helps small businesses access long-term fixed-rate financing for commercial real estate and equipment to support growth and job creation.
National
SBA guide: hire and manage employees by setting up payroll, following labor laws, recruiting, onboarding, training, and evaluating performance for a strong workforce.
National
Capital is a critical resource ... For more than 30 years, we’ve specialized in flexible lending products and creative real estate solutions that help nonprofits achieve their growth goals and best serve their communities.
For more information, visit IFF.org
National
Illinois artists: Apply for the Illinois Arts Council’s Creative Accelerator Fund, offering $10,000 awards to support artists’ creative practice and professional growth. Applications are due October 14, 2026.
Illinois
The Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3), formerly known as Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE), advocates for equitable economic opportunities across the state of Illinois for minorities-, women-, veteran-owned businesses, businesses owned by persons with disabilities, eligible not-for-profit corporations, and other underserved communities. Through targeted programs, resources, and outreach and promotional activities, OE3 aims to create an inclusive and strong business ecosystem for communities that have traditionally faced systemic barriers to entry and growth. This investment spurs local economic development in underserved areas resulting in a revitalized and thriving Illinois economy.
For more information, visit dceo.Illinois.gov
statewide in Illinois
WBDC’s Direct Lending Program offers loans to women- and minority-owned businesses in Northeast Illinois with annual revenue under $1 M, plus strategic financial guidance.
Chicago, Illinois
Jewish Free Loan Chicago provides zero-interest personal and small business loans to Chicago-area residents, helping individuals access capital without fees or predatory lending.
Chicago
LANE empowers low-income small business owners in Chicago by providing free legal services to help them launch, grow, and protect their businesses.
Chicago, Illinois
Stay legally compliant by meeting federal, state, and local requirements: obtain necessary licenses and permits, maintain proper records, and adhere to industry-specific regulations.
National
LinkedIn for Nonprofits Resource Hub is a free collection of guides, best practices, and expert advice from LinkedIn to help nonprofit organizations grow their presence on LinkedIn — including tips on hiring, content, networking, fundraising, and building your nonprofit’s brand and impact on the platform.
National
SBA-approved microlenders offering loans up and technical support for small businesses. Search by state or download the full list on the SBA website.
National
SBA Marketing guide: grow your business by defining your target market, highlighting your edge, setting sales goals, planning marketing tactics, budgeting, and tracking ROI.
National
Microsoft’s Digital Skills program offers free training—ranging from basic digital literacy to AI, cybersecurity, and cloud skills—to help people and businesses thrive in today’s digital economy.
National
Milestone Circles offers free virtual mentoring for Illinois women-owned businesses, connecting them with peers and mentors through a program backed by DCEO, Nasdaq, and Wells Fargo.
For more information, visit NasdaqCenter.org
National
Mona Ventures is a platform connecting U.S. small businesses to affordable loans and grants, offering personalized support and coaching throughout the application process.
National
Mona Ventures' Resource Hub offers small business owners guides on SBA loans, term loans, and lines of credit, along with monthly grant roundups to help entrepreneurs access funding opportunities.
National
The MySBA Learning Center offers free online courses covering startup fundamentals, business planning, financing, and growth strategies for small business owners.
National
New Covenant Community Development Corporation (NCCDC) empowers entrepreneurs through accessible financial education, one-on-one coaching, and practical workshops covering business credit, cash flow, and more.
Online
NCCDC offers personalized one-on-one business coaching to help CEOs assess their current state, set goals, troubleshoot issues, and bridge gaps for growth, saving time and fostering success.
Illinois
OFN’s free CDFI Locator helps you find community development financial institutions (CDFIs) across the U.S. that provide mission-driven financing for small businesses, nonprofits, and community projects.
For more information, visit OFN.org
National
Women across the U.S. can apply for Pave HER Way grants offering up to $90,000 for transformational projects or up to $30,000 in need-based support.
Applications due October 16, 2026.
National
Pursuit Lending offers flexible business loan products to help small businesses access capital for growth, equipment, working capital, refinancing, and other operational needs.
For more information, visit PursuitLending.com
Chicago, IL
Pursuit Lending Resources offers guides, tools, and insights to help small business owners understand financing options and strengthen their capital readiness.
Illinois
Right to Be’s upcoming free trainings offer skills in conflict de-escalation, bystander intervention, and building safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for workplaces and communities.
National
This is a funding opportunity for a current recipient of an SBA SCORE award. In order to be eligible, you must be a current recipient of SBA funding to SCORE. For-profit businesses are not eligible for this award.
National
SBDCs provide problem-solving assistance to help small businesses access capital, develop and exchange new technologies, and improve business planning, strategy, operations, financial management, personnel administration, marketing, export assistance and sales.
National
Venturize is a free, bilingual resource hub by Small Business Majority, offering small business owners tools and education to navigate funding, benefits, and growth strategies.
National
Venturize offers flexible loan options and capital solutions to help small businesses grow, expand operations, and strengthen financial footing with accessible funding support.
National
Venturize workplace benefits help small businesses offer competitive perks like healthcare guidance, retirement support, and employee well-being resources to boost retention and workplace satisfaction.
National
Somercor provides loans, grants, and advisory support to help small businesses and nonprofits grow, create jobs, and strengthen communities across Illinois and the Midwest.
Illinois
Veteran entrepreneurs and military spouses: Apply for the Kenneth B. and Stephen L. Tadlock Veteran Business Grant, offering $1,000+ awards plus free business accelerator access.
Apply by October 15, 2026.
National
Sunshine Enterprises’ Community Business Academy is a 12-week hybrid program offering hands-on training in planning, finance, marketing, and growth strategies to help entrepreneurs start or scale their businesses.
For more information, visit SunshineEnterprises.com
Chicago, IL
TechRise Resources offers guides, templates, and tools to help founders build, launch, and grow tech businesses with practical advice and actionable insights.
Illinois
The TransUnion Blog delivers timely articles on credit, identity protection, debt-management and personal finance — empowering readers to take control of their financial lives.
National
A searchable directory to find your local chamber of commerce by state, city, or territory, helping businesses connect with their nearest chamber.
National
The Polsky Exchange is a UChicago startup incubator offering workspace, mentorship, workshops, and business support to community entrepreneurs and students to grow their ventures.
Chicago, Illinois
The Polsky Small Business Financial Fundamentals program helps Chicago businesses access capital through financial training, analysis, mentorship, and a funding-ready financial report.
Chicago, Illinois
The Polsky Small Business Growth Program helps Chicago small businesses scale with free consulting, strategy support, and up to $5K in services over a 30-week program.
Chicago, Illinois
On Board by Chicago Booth's Rustandy Center strengthens nonprofit boards through debates, peer learning, and alumni connections to boost governance and strategic impact.
Chicago, Illinois
IGNITE is a free 9-month Chicago Booth program providing nonprofit leaders with coaching, education, peer mentorship, and networking to strengthen strategy and organizational impact.
Chicago, Illinois
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready offers free online courses, coaching, peer networking, and grants to help small businesses grow and succeed.
National
VBOCs assist clients in developing and maintaining a business plan. The business plan includes such elements as the legal form of the business, equipment requirements and cost, organizational structure, a strategic plan, market analysis, and a financial plan.
National
Filmmakers: Apply for the Vimeo Short Film Grant! Five filmmakers will each receive $60,000 to produce an original short film, plus equipment, mentorship and distribution support.
Apply by October 16, 2026.
National
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Illinois
Willie's Warriors is a leadership cohort for Black women and nonbinary leaders from diverse backgrounds, sectors, and industries.
For more information, visit CFW.org
Chicago
The Women's Entrepreneurship Hub offers Illinois women, especially Black and Latina/x, resources, funding tools, and a community to start and grow their businesses.
Illinois
The WE Hub Money Finder helps Illinois women entrepreneurs find grants, loans, and funding opportunities tailored to their business needs.
Illinois
The WBC program was founded to foster the growth of women-owned businesses by providing access to education, training, mentoring, business development and financing opportunities to women throughout the United States and its territories.
National
The Fundamentals of Capital masterclass helps women entrepreneurs understand capital structures, funding options, and investor pitching to scale their businesses.
National
The Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) is a nonprofit that supports entrepreneurs—especially women—through training, advising, and access to capital to start, grow, and scale businesses.
Illinois
