You can apply via Smartsheet by clicking on the “Apply Now” button in our landing page. The application is available in English and Spanish.
FAQs Category: Application Process
If I submitted a 2022 Grow Grant application do I need to reapply?
Yes, any business that applied to the 2022 Cook County Grow Grant will need to submit a new application for The 2023 Source Grant
What documentation is required for The 2023 Source Grant application?
The following documents are required for the application:
- Form of Valid Photo Identification including (one of the following is required):
- Driver’s license
- REAL ID
- State ID
- Chicago City Key ID
- Passport (US and non-US)
- Permanent resident card
- Consular ID
- Military ID
- Green card
- Certificate of naturalization
- Certificate of US citizenship
- Native American tribal photo ID
- Filed 2019 Federal Tax Return for your business; including required forms and attachments
- Filed 2022 Federal Tax Return for your business; including required forms and attachments
- Signed W-9 Form
- Provide proof of Good Standing with the State of Illinois (This does not apply to to Sole Proprietors that operate under SSN)
Will all eligible applicants receive grant dollars?
No.We anticipate that demand will exceed the available $40 million. Once eligibility is confirmed, Grant Administrators will select grant recipients via a randomized process.
What does it mean when it says you are prioritizing businesses in suburban Cook County?
Our goal is to distribute 60% of all grants to businesses located in suburban Cook County and 40% to businesses located in the City of Chicago.
How much money is available for businesses owned by veterans?
We have $500,000 available to support small businesses owned by veterans across both grant categories.
If I own more than one business, can I apply for a grant for each of them?
You may apply for all of your eligible businesses, but only one grant will be awarded to the business owner.
What should I do if my business was located in Cook County in 2019 but has moved out of Cook County since then?
If a business was located in Cook County in 2019 but has subsequently moved out of Cook County the business is not eligible for the 2023 Source Grant.
What should I do if my business address has changed since 2019?
Applicants should explain that the business has moved, and upload a Business License with the new address or Proof of Business Operations with the new address to demonstrate the business is currently operating in Cook County. This information can be uploaded as a supplemental document.
What if I have not filed my 2022 tax returns?
If an applicant has not filed their 2022 taxes, they must instead provide BOTH their 2022 tax extension application (completed) and current business license from the governing jurisdiction (local municipality, township or State of Illinois) for their application to be considered.
