New $100,000 “Catalyst Grant” Opens for Established Cook County Businesses

Cook County has launched a new grant program called the Catalyst Grant, designed to help growing, established businesses take their operations to the next level. This is not for startups or very small firms—but for businesses that already have proven revenue and want to scale, county officials explained.

What is the Catalyst Grant?

• Up to 88 Cook County businesses will be selected.
• Each winner will receive $100,000 in funding.
• The purpose: to support growth via hiring or training employees, upgrading facilities, buying equipment, or expanding operations.

Whose Eligible?

1. Be located in Cook County (suburbs or within the city)
2. Be a for-profit business
3. Have annual revenues between $500,000 and $10 million in both 2023 and 2024
4. Show growth from 2023 to 2024, in profit and in full-time employee count
5. Operate in one of these industries:
   • Construction
   • Finance & Insurance
   • Information Technology / Tech
   • Manufacturing
   • Professional Services
   • Real Estate

How to Apply

1. Visit the Catalyst Grant page on the Cook County Small Business Source website to access the application link.
2. Prepare all required documents before you start (the application must be submitted in one session—no edits later).
   • Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
   • 2023 and 2024 federal tax returns (with all supporting schedules)
   • IRS Form 941 for Q4 2023 and Q4 2024
   • Illinois proof of good standing from the Secretary of State
3. Complete and submit the online application before 5 p.m. CST Oct. 31.
4. After review, applicants will be notified by March 2026 if selected.

How to Use the Funds

• Hiring or training staff
• Improving your facility or upgrading equipment
• Expanding operations
• The funds must be used for new investments after the award; you cannot use them to reimburse for past costs.
• If your business leases space and wants to improve the facility, the lease must extend at least one year beyond the award, and your landlord must agree.

Virtual and Hybrid Info Sessions

• October 7, 2025, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm CT — informational webinar
• October 9, 2025, 10:00 am – 11:30 am — hybrid/in-person + virtual info meeting
• October 16, 2025, 10:00 am – 11:00 am — Q&A / application walk-through