New Business Champions Program

The Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC) offers the New Business Champions - Agriculture Micro Grant Program to support the growth of small farms and agribusinesses located in Chester County, Pennsylvania. This program aims to address the professional development needs of agricultural entrepreneurs who may face financial barriers to accessing essential advisory services. The grant provides up to $2,000 in free professional services to help eligible recipients strengthen their operations and navigate common business challenges. Through this program, CCEDC connects awardees with experienced mentors and professional service advisors in fields such as accounting, marketing, human resources, and legal services. By offering one-on-one mentoring and consulting, the program seeks to empower early-stage farm owners and agribusiness operators to make informed business decisions, improve sustainability, and achieve long-term success. The advisory services are coordinated through CCEDC’s Business Resource Center and tailored to meet the unique needs of each selected participant. Eligible applicants must meet specific business criteria: the business must be based in Chester County, employ ten or fewer people, and have been established within the past five years. Additionally, applicants must not have previously received a New Business Champions award. Although all eligible applicants will be considered, the program gives priority consideration to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI borrowers), businesses located in Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) designated areas, applicants without a college degree, first-generation college graduates, and individuals re-entering the workforce after an extended absence. The application window for the current cycle is open from September 15, 2025, through October 15, 2025. All applications must be submitted through CCEDC’s official website. Awards will be granted based on eligibility, funding availability, and a business needs assessment performed by the Business Resource Center. The total value of support provided per recipient is up to $2,000, with no matching funds required. This program is funded in part by the Chester County Workforce Development Board and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. For questions regarding the program, applicants may contact Darlene Jenkins-Walls at djenkinswalls@ccedcpa.com. Further details and application access are available at https://ccedcpa.com/new-business-champions/.

All applications are evaluated through CCEDC’s Business Resource Center, which conducts a needs assessment to tailor services. Priority is given to underserved and first-time applicants.