Helping founders find community and connections
8-week program to empower nonprofit organizations to drive innovative, community-led solutions to address health disparities by providing mentorship and access to resources to scale their programs’ impact and drive meaningful change.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
MATTER
Whether your business has one employee or a thousand employees, our team is ready and willing to engage and assist. KCAP meets one on one with businesses of all types and all industries. Give us a call today to set up a consultation.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Galesburg
KCAP
You’ve got a great idea for a business. Now what? Working with the KCAP team will allow you to break the complex process of starting a business into achievable steps. From an idea to a plan and from a plan to execution, we will work with you side-by-side throughout the startup process.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Galesburg
KCAP
Through our quarterly AgTech Connect Sessions, we facilitate purposeful collisions, bringing together diverse expertise to generate greater yields for people, products, and crop production. We invite all stakeholders to connect with us today to plan for the yields of tomorrow, and together, we can shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for agriculture.
Community/Networking
in
Peoria
Distillery Labs
Provides a comprehensive accredited Economic Development education for professionals with LESS than 10 years of experience, and individuals dedicated to expanding their economic development knowledge.
Training/Course
in
Edwardsville
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Entrepreneurial bootcamp designed to empower aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs. It is open to small business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and high school and college students. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your existing business, this program can help you achieve your goals.
Accelerator
in
Morrison
NW Illinois
Six-month learning and development program, providing participants with a behind-the-scenes look at Evanston's business community. Through local business case studies, on-site tours, SME presentations and stakeholder conversations, program participants get a unique chance to learn about, explore, embrace and better understand the inner workings of businesses, and business, in Evanston.
Training/Course
in
Evanston
Evanston Chamber of Commerce
Benefits University of Illinois-affiliated entrepreneurs with strong potential for technology commercialization through new company formation. Catapult awardees have access to a suite of professional services, including business development, legal setup, SBIR applications, bookkeeping, and marketing/branding assistance.
Accelerator
in
Champaign
Research Park
Hub for business startups and entrepreneurs that’s set to open in downtown Peoria next year. By integrating sensors and other technologies into our streets, utilities and public infrastructure, it seeks to create a test bed for new product innovations and solutions to some of Peoria’s biggest challenges.
Incubator
in
Peoria
Distillery Labs
Two-year fellowship for innovators focusing on energy and science technologies. Through an annual call for innovators, four to six individuals will be selected to join CRI. Program participants will receive the financial and technical support needed to perform early-stage research and development (R&D) that may launch energy or manufacturing businesses in the future.
AcceleratorIncubator
in
Lemont
Argonne National Laboratory
Transformative 12-week initiative designed for minority and women-owned businesses in Chicago to prepare business owners to pursue the capital needed to grow and scale their businesses. We aim to empower entrepreneurs with the financial knowledge, technical skills, management, and resources necessary to take their business to the next level.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
World Business Chicago
Designed to strengthen the use of businesses owned by women and racial/ethnic minorities. In addition, other identified socially disadvantaged groups as defined in City purchasing and contracting policies and to build capacity for these businesses through mentoring and training and to develop and sustain a diverse pool of qualified businesses used by the City of Champaign.
Coaching/ConsultingTraining/Course
in
Champaign
City of Champaign
Students can simulate and solve your biggest barriers and create informative insights for your business through class lab projects. Teams are supervised by the CBT BIG Center Executive Director, a CBT faculty member, and/or local business leaders who serve as coaches to the students.
Service
in
Statewide
Northeastern Illinois University
Performs intensive outreach to ensure that small and hard-to-reach businesses are aware of economic relief funds available. Additionally, provides 1-on-1 technical assistance to support businesses in understanding how to access relief.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Champaign
Champaign County Economic Development Corporation
Provides customized support to address the critical needs of small-to mid-size nonprofits across the South Side. To be considered for the Accelerator, organizations must be nonprofit corporations, preferably with 501c3 status, whose work benefits residents in at least one of the following nine South Side neighborhoods in the University of Chicago’s focus area: Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Greater Grand Crossing, Hyde Park, Kenwood, Oakland, South Shore, Washington Park, and Woodlawn.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
University of Chicago
Pediatric medical device accelerator based at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). Promotes the development and commercialization of pediatric medical devices by simultaneously engaging and coordinating clinicians, engineers, regulators, hospital administrators, industry, patients, and the business community to guide and support medical device development for children.
Accelerator
in
Countrywide
Consortium for Technology & Innovation in Pediatrics
Provides one-on-one business advising to address the unique needs of businesses at no cost. Through this program, entrepreneurs have access to knowledgeable advisors that can help strengthen your business.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Chicago
Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Small business pop up incubator program of the Northwest Side CDC. The program includes training, advising, and a physical storefront in the Belmont Cragin community. The goal of this program is to incubate and accelerate creative click –and –mortar entrepreneurs in their quest to launch a successful business. The program provides a low risk and controlled environment that allowed entrepreneurs to test their business model with access to educational resources.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
Northwest Side Community Development Corporation
Participants will attend 15 sessions over the course of 14 weeks, typically on Thursday mornings, where they will experience on-site learning and gain an inside view of the industries and issues that shape our region. The program also entails group-based service learning projects and concludes with a project presentations and graduation ceremony in December.
Training/Course
in
Decatur
Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce
Provide a suite of services tailored to the needs of deep tech startups including: Office, laboratory and workshop space; Deep tech mentors and entrepreneurs in residence; Access to capital; Access to industry partners and/or customers.
AcceleratorIncubator
in
Chicago
Discovery Partners Institute
12-months program will provide in-depth interpersonal insightful, educational program sessions designed for high growth/high impact chefs, restauranteurs, culinary artists, food truck vendors, bakeries, and caterers who are looking to take their businesses to the next level. Provides public facing commercial kitchen and learning lab on Chicago’s south side.
IncubatorAccelerator
in
Chicago
Foodlab Chicago
Program designed to jumpstart existing businesses and give them the resources they need to accelerate their growth. Second-stage companies face different challenges than startups or large enterprise, and the Economic Gardening Network provides these business owners with strategic information customized to help them solve problems and identify new opportunities.
Accelerator
in
Morrison
NW Illinois
Our weekly gatherings are a safe space for mentors, entrepreneurs, and guest speakers to come together and share experiences and help solve that challenges of starting a business. Anyone who is interested in entrepreneurship is welcome to join.
Community/Networking
in
Chicago
Illinois Institute of Technology
Offers collaboration opportunities and resources for high growth startup companies, university technology spin-offs, and regional innovation enterprises. Offers strong mentoring and management support, and improve access to capital investments by tapping into the knowledge base of experienced EIRs.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Carbondale
Southern Illinois University
Provides free consulting to new startup ventures and prospective technology entrepreneurs. The Entrepreneur-in-Residence team features experienced entrepreneurs that have faced challenges in commercializing research/early stage technology. They provide advice on a wide variety of business topics like successfully attracting investment, building a team and communicating value proposition.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Champaign
Research Park
Provides free resources, support, and expertise necessary to submit a highly competitive SBIR/STTR funding proposal. Together, we have helped companies acquire millions of dollars in federal SBIR/STTR funding – at no cost whatsoever to them.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Champaign
Research Park
Two-year graduate fellowship program for returned Peace Corps volunteers (RPCV) and AmeriCorps (AC) Alumni. As part of their degree program, Fellows serve an eleven-month internship in a rural community, leading local development projects, such as: downtown revitalization, business retention and expansion, tourism development, health education, volunteer management, and disaster preparedness. Fellows work to build local capacity, mobilize people, and make sustainable progress. Any small town, group of towns, or local/county/regional agencies are eligible to apply to host a Fellow.
Training/CourseCommunity/Networking
in
Macomb
Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs
Provides the latest agronomic information and on-farm research from local experts to help Illinois soybean producers improve yield and profitability.
Service
in
StatewideStatewideStatewide
Illinois Soybean Association — Bloomington,Illinois Soybean Association — LombardIllinois Soybean Association — Springfield
Six-month, holistic program developed by The Hatchery Chicago to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and transform your business from idea to reality. This cohort program is intended to accelerate your launch to market using Lean Startup methodologies and a supportive community. With essential tools and engaging monthly discussions, you will be able to determine viability and market demand quickly, and carefully position your brand for growth.
AcceleratorIncubator
in
Chicago
The Hatchery
Dedicated to revolutionizing customer experiences in the restaurant industry. Think: leveraging advanced technologies such as the metaverse and virtual spaces, Web3, AR/VR, front-of-house automation, retail tech, AI enhancements, and more to shape the next generation of dining.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
Food Foundry
A proven model for addressing fresh food deserts. If your small-town grocery store is facing challenges, you are in the right place. If your town has lost its grocery store, we can provide a roadmap to a new community-owned store. If your group wants to start a food cooperative to provide local, organic produce to the community, we can help you get started.
Service
in
Macomb
Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs
G2M is our 2-month program that highlights general business, financial, and commerce topics so you can be confident that the decisions you make today set you up for growth tomorrow. You’ll also be paired with an industry expert as your mentor and learn alongside a cohort of other business founders.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
Good Food Accelerator
Designed to empower scientists, researchers, and students to test the commercial potential and impact of their research and ideas. Through highly-experiential learning at the local and national levels, I-Corps teams learn how to assess “technology-problem fit,” the first critical step in the commercialization process.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
University of Chicago
Assists cooperatives and other businesses in rural areas succeed, through technical assistance, training, and publications. Assistance is delivered through a combination of ICDC staff, partner cooperative development agencies, and paid consultants. The cooperatives in all sectors are eligible for assistance through the Center. ICDC has extensive expertise in value-added and sustainable agriculture and local foods.
Training/CourseService
in
Macomb
Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs
Fuels collaboration between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Illinois' top higher education institutions. Whether you’re developing cutting-edge products or need access to advanced labs and expert research, the Innovation Voucher empowers SMEs to innovate and compete. This isn’t just funding—it’s a game-changer for turning bold ideas into market-ready solutions.
Incubator
in
Chicago
Illinois Science & Technology Coalition
8 month course that is available to up and coming leaders, leaders to the new area, and current leaders who want to be more involved in the Illinois Valley. Participants can expect, among other things, introductions to current leaders that make our communities run, behind the scenes tours and interactions with successful business in our area, a better understanding and development of their personal leadership strenghts and a strong netwok of individuals from their class that they will have as peer mentors for years to come.
Training/Course
in
Peoria
Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce
Works directly with new business owners, professionals exploring new business opportunities, and students to develop, scale, and grow their new business ventures. We walk alongside these entrepreneurs to uncover insights and develop scalable businesses.
Accelerator
in
Peoria
Greater Peoria
Offers no cost advisory & training services on a wide variety of topics. We strive to deliver professional, high quality assistance to existing business and pre-venture entrepreneurs. Services available in English and Spanish.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Champaign
International Trade Center
Connects successful entrepreneurs of color with emerging entrepreneurs. The goal is to empower Latinx and first-generation students to see entrepreneurship as a viable path. This is achieved both in the classroom and in the community, learning and applying design-thinking, the entrepreneurial resilient mindsets, and business skills as well as gaining exposure to real-world entrepreneurial experiences.
Accelerator
in
Lake Forest
Lake Forest College
14-week series of half-day programs during which participants gain leadership skills and in-depth exposure to critical issues affecting the Springfield area. During the program, participants interact with community leaders and decision makers who share diverse perspectives on significant accomplishments and opportunities within the Springfield community. Interactive professional development is a cornerstone of Leadership Springfield.
Training/Course
in
Springfield
The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce
Membership perks feature co-working space, conference rooms, event space, access to our team of expert advisors, and much more. We pair our collaborative environment with tools to help you accelerate your business idea with flexible membership options.
Incubator
in
Romeoville
Lewis University
12-14-week cohort that creates pathways for Latinx and underrepresented entrepreneurs to break into and contribute to the tech and innovation economy while scaling their businesses. In addition, incubator companies benefit from one-on-one coaching with our network of Latin mentors and alumni, curated weekly sessions dedicated to the unique experience of being a Latin tech startup founder, and access to our network of connections to resources.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
One of the oldest and largest business incubators in the world. It houses over 110 new and growing companies across a diverse set of industries including food/beverage, light manufacturing, professional services, and apparel. Our goal remains to assist companies move toward long-term success.
AcceleratorIncubator
in
Chicago
Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago
Shared commercial kitchen created to help food entrepreneurs bring their dreams to the table. Hosted by the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship at Bradley University, our kitchen is more than a place to cook — it’s a launchpad for culinary success. Our clients receive no-cost business advising and access to resources to help scale their business.
IncubatorCoaching/Consulting
in
Peoria
Turner Center for Entrepreneurship
6-month startup accelerator for new product development and commercialization. Focus on demand-driven HardTech solutions for challenges in Sustainable Manufacturing, Industrial IoT, medtech, Energy Tech, and Energy Technology. If you’re a high-potential, early-stage startup building a physical product or solution, this program is for you.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
mHUB
We are looking for companies that are enhancing patient experience, optimizing physician and nursing efficiency, and driving advancements in precision medicine, robotics, and cybersecurity. Selected companies will gain valuable access to Northwestern Medicine’s expertise through mentorship from leading industry experts, physicians, and top healthcare leaders.
Accelerator
in
Birmingham
Techstars
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.
Training/CourseService
in
ChicagoSpringfield
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity — ChicagoIllinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity — Springfield
Clients can schedule an appointment to meet with one of Entrepreneur & Business Center (EBC) advisors. We then follow up with regular meetings for as long as our support is needed to help you launch your business.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Joliet
Entrepreneur & Business Center at Joliet Junior College
Entrepreneurs developing digital health preparedness solutions receive support through acceleration services and product validation opportunities so they can empower the nation to prepare for and respond to health security threats and improve the continuum of care.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
MATTER
Business Incubator for startup companies looking to make their mark on the world. Our collaborative environment allows you to share knowledge and resources with fellow researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs looking to transform new technologies and innovations into thriving enterprises.
Incubator
in
Peoria
Peoria NEXT Innovation Center
The ReFED Project’s mission is to create economic growth in rural areas by providing business development assistance to beginning farmers, food processors, food hubs, food cooperatives, and independent grocers. Fellows work to build local capacity, mobilize people, and make sustainable progress. Any small town, group of towns, or local/county/regional agencies are eligible to apply to host a Fellow.
Training/CourseService
in
Macomb
Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs
Community of makers, hackers, tinkerers, and creators who share a physical space, tools, and thoughts. Our members pay monthly dues that go towards paying rent and maintaining the machines, in return they get access to the makerspace, its tools, and its resources whenever they need it. Tool availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Members also get access to our very active, private chat community, where the majority of our ideation and discussions take place. We also host several events throughout the year, our biggest being Midwest Makerfest, part of Ignite Peoria.
Community/Networking
in
Peoria
River City Labs Makerspace
Provides no-cost, confidential services to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals looking to start or grow their business in the Sauk Valley region. Our expert advisors offer practical guidance, tools, and resources to help businesses at every stage of development.
Coaching/ConsultingTraining/CourseService
in
Statewide
SBDC Illinois
Students play an important role in advising community business owners on a variety of topics including growing their business, improving sales and marketing, increasing revenues, improving operations, and more. Students address key business challenges and determine new strategies for growth opportunities.
Coaching/Consulting
in
Statewide
Northeastern Illinois University
Concierge service for foreign companies looking to establish their first American location. Our program offers individualized attention and easy access to customers and clients in the Midwest while enjoying an affordable cost of living. Plus, you can benefit from big-city connections without getting lost in the shuffle. Continue browsing to learn how Soft Landing Greater Peoria can help your business succeed.
Accelerator
in
Peoria
Greater Peoria
Identifies, ignites, and supports innovative ideas, key products, and research to drive new ways to use soy and to promote Illinois as the leader in soybean production.
Accelerator
in
StatewideStatewideStatewide
Illinois Soybean Association — Bloomington,Illinois Soybean Association — LombardIllinois Soybean Association — Springfield
Connects founders with investors to accelerate growth. As an extension of the Chicago Venture Summit, the VC attraction and startup growth program facilitates venture matchmaking between regional & national investors with 250+ entrepreneurs; the majority of the cohort seeking a Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, or Series B round.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
World Business Chicago
Provides resources and opportunities to students, faculty, employees of supply chain businesses, or anyone who wishes to create their own startup company in the supply chain and related sectors.
IncubatorAccelerator
in
University Park
Governor State University
Each TEAM meets twice a month, creating an opportunity to pass along leads, share business struggles, offer solutions, and engage with other Members. It is comprised of non-competing businesses, therefore creating a community where you can help build your reputation and expand your business in a unique way -while helping fellow Members do the same.
Community/Networking
in
Naperville
Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
Designed for growers/farmers and aspiring to early-stage entrepreneurs creating value-add products (ex: pickles, soap, baked goods, sauces, honey). Through our interactive, expert-led sessions, you’ll gain the essential knowledge to get your business and products up-and-running! Immediately following the program, you will receive 6-weeks of weekly 1:1 coaching from successful, Chicago-based entrepreneurs.
Accelerator
in
Chicago
Good Food Accelerator
Designed to equip minority and women entrepreneurs with essential skills, knowledge, and resources to succeed in the business world. Through a series of interactive workshops, coaching sessions, and networking opportunities, participants gain practical insights and tools to start, sustain, and grow their businesses.
Accelerator
in
Rockford
Think Big
Provides early-stage life sciences, quantum, clean energy, and data science companies with access to state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, cutting-edge wet lab space and equipment, and seasoned management expertise necessary to flourish.
Incubator
in
Chicago
University of Chicago
Three-month virtual sprint designed for entrepreneurs in the early stages of building their ventures. Infused with Jewish wisdom, UpLift combines a virtual interactive atmosphere with self-paced learning modules. The curriculum fosters growth in a radically human-centered environment utilizing Learning Pods, Critical Colleagues feedback sessions, and live virtual gatherings.
Accelerator
in
Countrywide
Upstart
The University of Illinois Research Park hosts a variety of workshops every month. From entrepreneurial support, to professional events, to intern development, Research Park supports ongoing education by inviting speakers of various backgrounds to discuss experiences, share advice, and provide insight into particular fields.
Training/Course
in
Champaign
Research Park