View as Webpage

This month, The Source is here to help you move your business forward. Learn about the Catalyst Grant, access expert guidance through upcoming webinars and events, and connect with resources that empower Cook County entrepreneurs to grow and succeed.

The Catalyst Grant: Fueling what’s next

Cook County businesses are powering the local economy, and now it’s time to push yours to the next level.

The Catalyst Grant is a $100,000 opportunity for 88 businesses that are ready to scale and use the funds to address workforce needs, modernize equipment or make facility upgrades—but only eligible businesses can apply.

Before you get started, review the eligibility criteria and watch our Catalyst Grant explainer video to see if your business qualifies.

Sound like you? You could be one of 88 businesses selected to receive this powerful funding boost to fuel what’s next. Applications close October 31, 2025 at 5 p.m. CT.

Need help applying for the Catalyst Grant?

The Source and our trusted partners are here to make the process simple. Whether you need assistance gathering documents, navigating the application or confirming your eligibility, we’ve got you covered.



Connect with our help desk, schedule an in-person session with a business advisor or join an informational webinar to learn more about the Catalyst Grant, including eligibility requirements and how to apply. Click here to learn more.

Catalyst Grant Informational Webinars

Join our partners at the Women’s Business Development Center on Thursday, October 16 at 10 a.m. for a guided walkthrough of the Catalyst Grant application. They’ll explain each question step-by-step so you can submit your application with confidence. Register to join here.



Prefer to learn about the Catalyst Grant at your own pace? Click here to watch a past informational webinar hosted by Allies for Community Business.

October Webinar Wednesday

Smart Start - Business Basics

Presented by The Source and the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council, the October Webinar Wednesday explores how to set your business up for success from the ground up.

Discover the essentials of a smart start—from proper business listings and a simple but strong website to marketing strategies that drive growth and build lasting customer loyalty. Join us to gain the tools and insights every entrepreneur needs to thrive!

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Upcoming events

The Federal Reserve’s 2025 Small Business Credit Survey is now open!

The Source is proud to partner in this important effort to better understand the financial realities of small businesses.

We invite you to take a few minutes to share your experiences including how you use financing and debt, the financial conditions you’re facing and more. Your responses provide critical insights that help inform the Federal Reserve, government agencies, service providers and policymakers about the capital needs of small businesses like yours.

All responses are confidential. Click here to take the 12-minute survey now.

Helpful resources and events for your small business

Allies for Community Business; Revenue-Based Financing

Did you know that Allies for Community Business (A4CB)—a Source Business Support Organization—is now offering loans up to $500,000 through their revenue-based financing program? 

Revenue-based financing is available to established businesses that have a clear plan for growth. These loans do not require a fixed repayment amount each month; instead, the borrower is required to repay a fixed percentage of revenues earned each month. Personal collateral is not required for loans up to $250,000.  



Have questions? Learn more here or attend A4CB’s upcoming webinar on October 17, 2025 detailing the program. Register here.

Coffee & Conversations: From Burnout to Breakthrough — Thriving During Uncertainty

Join the Illinois DCEO Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment and The Source on October 21 at 8:30 a.m. as we celebrate National Women's Business Month.



Gain essential insights from a panel of local women entrepreneurs, explore new business resources and opportunities from across Illinois’ entrepreneurial ecosystem and spark fresh ideas while building community.



Throughout the event, visit participating organizations’ tables to connect with valuable tools and partners. All are welcome to attend this free event. Register here.