Grow your company with a grant for diverse, small businesses in the Chicago area.

$1 million in grant funding is available in Job Creators Quest Grants.

Start Your Application Now!

A total of $100,000 will be awarded to 30 businesses in Chicago.

Grants are a great way to receive growth capital for your small business. With a simple application, you can receive cash and full tuition scholarship to one of our stellar accelerators.

Program Details

Requirements

The application deadline is February 4, 2022. Please email us at chicago.jobcreators@foundersfirstcdc.org with any questions about the Job Creators Quest Grant.

Please visit the Grant FAQ page for more information.

About the Job Creators Quest Grant

Founders First is committed to increasing the number of diverse founder-led businesses generating over $1 million dollars in revenues and creating premium wage jobs.

A total of $100,000 will be awarded to 30 small businesses: $10,000 grant, $4,000 grant, $2,500 grants, $1,000 grants. In addition, each grant recipient will receive a tuition scholarship for one of Founders First CDC’s stellar business accelerator programs.

Grant recipients will be selected based on their demonstrated ability to maintain and grow their workforce despite the pandemic, as well as their ongoing commitment to creating premium wage jobs in their communities.

Over 400 diverse-led small businesses have gone through Founders First programs to increase revenue, profitability, and team members. 

The grant amount shall be disbursed in two installments. Half of the cash grant award amount will be disbursed up to 30 days after signed terms and conditions, W-9, and set up of payment disbursement system is confirmed. The remaining portion will be disbursed up to 30 days after the completion of the business’ participation in the eligible accelerator program. 

Please email us at chicago.jobcreators@foundersfirstcdc.org with any questions about the Job Creators Quest Grant. 

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