Support West is a program created in direct partnership with, and in support of small businesses. From creating jobs to creating safe spaces, investing in local businesses is vital to the future of our communities, and what makes the Support West program so unique is that it’s not just about the financial investment. Our goal is to shore up the economic corridors of West Side communities through financial resources and marketing support, providing long-term assistance to these neighborhoods.

Applications Now Open!

The Chicago Blackhawks Foundation is excited to launch the third cycle of the program to continue to support minority owned small businesses on the West Side by providing $5,000 grants through the Support West program. In addition to the $5,000 grant, businesses also receive about a value of $5,000 in marketing assets.

The application window is open now through December 8, 2023. The grantees will be selected and notified by January 8, with grant disbursement by mid-January.

ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for a grant, businesses must meet the following requirements:

• Located in a West Side neighborhood, particularly in Austin, Belmont Cragin, East Garfield Park, Hermosa, Humboldt Park, Lower West Side, Near West Side, North Lawndale, Pilsen, South Lawndale, West Garfield Park or West Town.
• Categorized as one of the following business types: Food and Beverage, Art Based, Nutrition/Food Access, Wellness Center
• 10 or fewer employees
• Owned and operated by a business leader of color
• Less than $250,000 annual revenue
• In business for at least one year
• Willing and able to participate in programming with mentors and professional development beginning in February 2024 and ending in September 2024