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
The O’Shaughnessy Fellowships & Grants award $100,000 to researchers, builders, and creatives to turn bold ideas into reality—100% ownership, no equity, committees, or thesis. One-year program.
Apply by April 30, 2026.
National
FoodLab Chicago 7.0 is a free program for Black and Brown food entrepreneurs in Chicago (12–18+ months in business). It offers weekly training in finance, marketing, and operations. Limited seats—apply early.
Apply by April 17, 2026
Chicago
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
If you’re a WBENC-certified business, you have access to an incredible variety of workshops and training programs designed to help you grow, scale, and thrive. From financial education and leadership development to marketing strategies and procurement readiness, these sessions provide actionable insights and connections that can make a real difference…
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
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
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
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
