Small Business Development Centers

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to seek qualified host organizations to operate Illinois Small Business Development Centers and provide program services. The program aims to deliver high-quality, professional, and individualized advising and technical assistance to existing small businesses and pre-venture entrepreneurs. The centers will provide services in areas such as business planning, access to capital, marketing analysis, and international trade readiness. • The program will provide funding for up to 57 awards, with a total amount of $5,585,000. • The award range is $80,000 to $525,000. • The program will operate for a three-year period, with executed grant agreements issued for one year at a time. • Applicants must demonstrate a well-established host organization, fiscal soundness, and experience in receiving and expending government funding. • The program requires a minimum overall matching contribution of 100% of the grant amount, with at least 50% of the total award amount committed as cash each program year.