Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Illinois

The Coleman Foundation has announced its 2025 Entrepreneurship Open Call, inviting proposals from organizations that are working to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the greater Chicago region. Applications are due by Friday, April 25, 2025. This initiative follows the Foundation’s recent $2 million investment in community-based Business Support Organizations and seeks to expand its understanding of and impact on entrepreneurship-focused programming across Chicago. The open call is focused on identifying and funding organizations undertaking efforts in three key areas: supporting high-growth, tech-based entrepreneurial ventures; piloting innovative programs to expand access to capital; and advancing advocacy or coalition-building efforts that reduce structural barriers to entrepreneurship. These efforts should aim to improve conditions for entrepreneurs to launch, grow, or scale their businesses in the greater Chicago region. Organizations that are selected through this open call will receive grants to further their innovative or strategic efforts in the outlined priority areas. While specific funding amounts and eligibility details are outlined in the downloadable “Entrepreneurship Open Call” PDF, the overarching goal is to promote equity, innovation, and collaboration within Chicago’s business development ecosystem. Interested applicants must submit their proposals by the April 25 deadline. The application process, including grantmaking criteria and funding details, is included in the PDF available through the Coleman Foundation's website. Organizations are encouraged to review this document carefully before applying. For questions related to the grant opportunity or application process, organizations should contact the Foundation at grants@colemanfoundation.org. The Coleman Foundation is headquartered at 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 3410, Chicago, IL 60606.