We provide funding and education to founders all over Chicago.
Hilo's work is designed to reduce barriers to entry, strengthen small business operations, and support long-term economic stability in historically under-resourced communities. Through an integrated model, Hilo deploys capital while delivering hands-on technical assistance to ensure businesses are not only funded, but structured to succeed. Our programs prioritize entrepreneurs on Chicago's South and West Sides and align with broader economic development goals including business retention, job creation, and corridor activation.
Hilo $1K Grant
Targeted microgrant funding to stabilize businesses and address immediate operational barriers.
The Hilo $1K Grant provides flexible, unrestricted capital to small businesses that lack access to traditional funding sources. Funds are used to cover critical expenses such as rent, payroll, inventory, licensing, and compliance-related costs.
This program serves as an early-stage capital intervention, helping businesses remain operational, avoid disruption, and build momentum toward growth. Recipients are selected based on demonstrated need, impact potential, and alignment with neighborhood economic activity.
Capital Readiness Program
Preparing businesses to access grants, loans, and capital with confidence.
The Capital Readiness Program equips entrepreneurs with the financial systems and documentation required to successfully compete for funding. Participants receive support in developing financial statements, organizing business records, and preparing complete, competitive applications.
As part of this work, Hilo connects eligible businesses to partners such as CIBC, facilitating access to low-barrier loan products designed for small businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing.
The program strengthens each business's ability to access and effectively deploy capital, improving outcomes for both the business and the broader funding ecosystem.
Hilo Growth Program
Hands-on business education to support launch, stabilization, and growth.
The Growth Program provides structured technical assistance across core business functions including financial management, operations, licensing and compliance, and marketing.
Through a combination of 1:1 advising and workshops, entrepreneurs gain the tools and knowledge needed to build strong operational foundations. The program emphasizes practical implementation, ensuring that businesses can apply what they learn in real time and sustain improvements over time.
Storefront Activation
End-to-end support to help businesses secure, build out, and operate in physical spaces.
Hilo works with business owners and property owners to move projects from idea to open storefront. Support includes feasibility assessment, permitting and licensing navigation, coordination with city departments, and guidance through buildout and funding processes.
This work reduces friction within complex systems and supports the activation of commercial corridors by ensuring businesses are prepared to operate successfully once open. Hilo's work as the designated Corridor Lead for the City of Chicago's CCSA program on W 18th Street directly supports neighborhood-level economic growth, job creation, and the activation of commercial corridors throughout Chicago.
Not sure which program is right for you?
Free 1:1s are available to you as often as you need. Whether you're navigating program guidance and applications, accounting and tax questions, permits and licenses, general operations, or preparing for a health inspection, our team is here.