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Hi Veronica,
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Opening Doors: Unlocking Innovation to support West Side Chicago entrepreneurs! We are excited to announce that Nude Dude Food won first place at the Grubhub pitch contest with one full year of private kitchen space and wraparound support at The Hatchery. The pitches went so well that the judges announced a tie for second place, rather than choosing one business. Thanks to Grubhub, HoneyDoe Syrian Kitchen, Uncle Earl's BBQ and Blues, and The Vulgar Vegan will get six months of free private kitchen space at The Hatchery.
Your presence and support made it an unforgettable night of empowerment and community spirit. From the thrilling Grubhub pitch contest to the connections made while networking and sampling products, together we are paving the way for innovation and success in the world of entrepreneurship. For more opportunities like this, donate to ICNC.
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Expanding your business from direct-to-consumer (DTC) to retail is a large shift that needs careful planning. In this session, learn to smoothly transition your brand and boost your revenue. Ideal for forward-thinking businesses, this workshop provides practical tips for a successful shift, including creating a seamless customer experience, maximizing data-driven decision-making, and developing a flexible brand. | |
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Small Business Grant Opportunities
Support West Grant | December 8
Administered by the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation
The Chicago Blackhawks Foundation’s Support West provides $5,000 grants to minority-owned small businesses in neighborhoods on the West Side of Chicago.
Eligibility
- Located on Chicago’s West Side.
- Food and Beverage, Art Based, Nutrition/Food Access, or Wellness Center business minority owned and operated.
- Less than $250,000 annual revenue.
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West Side United Grant | December 15
Administered by West Side United and Allies for Community Business
West Side United is supporting businesses that are creating wealth and job opportunities on Chicago’s West Side with $10,000 grants.
Eligibility
- Be a for-profit small business located in the following 10 Chicago West Side neighborhoods: Austin, Belmont Cragin, East Garfield Park, Humboldt Park, Lower West Side (Pilsen), Near Westside, North Lawndale, South Lawndale (Little Village), West Garfield Park, West Town.
- Have an annual revenue that does not exceed $1 million annually.
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Illinois Back to Business New Business Grant Program | January 11
Administered by the State of Illinois and Lendistry
Illinois B2B NewBiz will provide financial relief of up to $30,000 to new businesses in the industries most impacted by the pandemic.
Eligibility
- Started operations between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 and located in Illinois
- Had gross receipts of at least $25,000 and up to $20,000,000 in 2021
- Have not received a Back to Business (B2B) grant prior to 2023
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Join our Make City Community!
Discover prime spaces for your business at Make City, ICNC's expansive 416,000 square-foot modern manufacturing incubator, situated in the heart of Chicago's West Side. As one of the world's oldest and largest business incubators, Make City accommodates over 100 dynamic companies spanning various sectors, such as food and beverage, light manufacturing, professional services, and apparel. Join us on your journey to long-term success as we provide the ideal environment for your business to thrive.
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Looking to kickstart a fulfilling non-profit career that actively contributes to the growth and success of businesses in the Kinzie Industrial Corridor? | |
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Member Highlight
Meet Chicago Comb Co. They sell the best beard comb for pain-free maintenance of short-to-medium-length beards without static, friction, or ripping the follicle according to Men's Journal. You can also find comb and sheath sets, and combs for all hair types on their website. Shipping is free for all U.S. orders, $6 for international shipping, and $10 to personalize any comb.
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