Grants Portal

Small Business Owners have access to many grants!

Little Village and the South Side of Chicago are home to some of the most resilient, creative, and community-rooted entrepreneurs in the country. At the Little Village Chamber of Commerce (LVCC), we believe that capital should follow that energy — not work against it.

We know that navigating grant programs can feel overwhelming, especially when applications are complex, information is only available in English, or deadlines move fast. That's why the LVCC actively coordinates with local, city, and state partners to connect Hispanic business owners with the funding opportunities they deserve — and to walk with you through the process.

Below you'll find an overview of the key grant programs we support and provide guidance on.

All services are available in Spanish and English.

Assistance with Grants

About these grants

Grant programs and deadlines change frequently.
The LVCC makes every effort to keep this page current, but we encourage you to contact us directly for the most up-to-date information.

NBDC — Neighborhood Business Development Center

  • City of Chicago / BACP

  • The Little Village Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the City of Chicago's Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) to provide hyper-local support to business owners and start-up entrepreneurs through the Neighborhood Business Development Centers (NBDC) program. Littlevillagechamber

  • Through NBDC, LVCC staff can connect you with grant navigation support, business consulting, licensing assistance, and referrals to funding programs — all at no cost to you.

Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF)

  • City of Chicago — Department of Planning and Development

  • The Neighborhood Opportunity Fund provides capital development grants of up to $250,000 for small business and cultural projects located along West, Southwest, and South Side commercial corridors City of Chicago — including 26th Street here in Little Village.

  • NOF grants cover 75% of eligible project costs up to $250,000, and up to $50,000 in additional funding may be provided for approved technical assistance. SomerCor Funds can be used for storefront renovations, new construction, and other permanent capital improvements.

  • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and evaluated quarterly. City of Chicago

  • The LVCC offers NOF information workshops to help you understand eligibility and prepare your application. To learn more or register for the next workshop, email info@littlevillagechamber.org.

Illinois OMEE Grants

  • State of Illinois — Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)

  • Small Business Capital & Infrastructure Grant Program

  • As part of DCEO's ongoing commitment to supporting businesses across the state, the department has issued Minority-Owned Business Capital Grants (OMEE Grants), distributed to businesses and business incubators across the state.

  • The LVCC has a direct track record with OMEE funding — most recently to support the Xquina Café Incubator, a bilingual business hub at 3525 W. 26th Street that will offer co-working space, coaching, and community programming for local entrepreneurs.

  • Ask us about how OMEE grants may be available for your business or project.

City of Chicago
- Grant Opportunities

  • City of Chicago —
    Department of Planning and Development

  • Community Development Grants - Community Development Grants help pay for new construction or building renovation projects throughout the city at three funding levels, depending on project scope.

  • Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) - The Small Business Improvement Fund supports permanent building improvements and repairs for properties in Tax Increment Financing districts.

  • Workforce Solutions - It offers grants up to $250,000 for the training of incumbent workers and new hires. 

  • Adopt-A-Landmark Grants - Adopt-A-Landmark grants support the restoration of designated landmark buildings and structures throughout Chicago.

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunities

De La Mano - Advisory Program - Set up your appointment for grant assistance

How the LVCC Can Help You

Applying for a grant doesn't have to be a solo effort. Our team can:

  • Help you identify which grants you may qualify for
  • Walk you through application requirements in Spanish or English
  • Connect you with consultants and partners for technical assistance
  • Alert you when new funding opportunities become available
  • Host workshops and info sessions with grant administrators

Don't wait for a deadline to find out about a grant. Reach out to us early — that's how we get results together.

Contact Us For Assistance
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