Capital with operational backbone behind it.
Hilo turns philanthropic and institutional capital into measurable outcomes — businesses launched, jobs created, corridors activated. Six years of relationship-driven work supporting entrepreneurs that traditional systems leave behind.
A partner you can build with.
Funders look for partners who are trusted in community, operate with transparency, and can turn resources into durable impact. Here's how Hilo delivers.
Trusted in community
Six years of relationship-driven work on Chicago's South and West Sides — reaching entrepreneurs who have been excluded from traditional federal, state, and institutional aid.
Transparent & accountable
Every dollar is tracked to measurable outcomes: businesses served, consultation hours delivered, jobs created, capital leveraged, storefronts activated. We publish what we do and what it costs.
Built to last
We don't run short-term activity — we build infrastructure that scales. From two self-funded microgrants in 2020 to a designated City of Chicago CCSA Corridor Lead in 2026.
What $154K in services looks like in practice.
In 2024, Hilo's Growth Program reached a new level of scale — serving 195 businesses, delivering 525 hours of 1:1 consultation, hosting 24 workshops, supporting the launch of 23 new businesses, and contributing to the creation of 39 jobs across Chicago communities. That same year, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection selected Hilo as one of seven organizations to deliver the city's $7M Good Food Fund Food Business Incubator Program. Read the full 2024 Impact Report →
Institutional trust, earned through work.
Hilo's work has been recognized by city government, national press, and institutional funders — building a track record that gives funders confidence to deepen their commitment.
Three ways to move this work forward.
General Operating Support
Unrestricted funding gives Hilo the flexibility to respond to entrepreneurs and community needs in real time — exactly when capital matters most. Tax-deductible 501(c)(3) donation.
Donate →Sponsor a Program
Underwrite the Hilo Growth Program, the $1K Grant Campaign, or Storefront Activation. Sponsorships include recognition, impact reporting, and engagement with the entrepreneurs your dollars support.
Inquire →Institutional Partnership
For foundations, corporates, and government partners exploring multi-year commitments or co-designed programming. Book an intro call with our team to scope what's possible.
Book a Call →