Resources: CDG-Small
Below is a list of resources for potential grant applicants to the Community Development Grant-Small (CDG-s) program.
Potential applicants are encouraged to attend a information session
- Webinar: Tuesday, August 20th | 2:00 pm Register now
- Webinar: Monday, September 9th | 2:00 pm Presented in Spanish/Presentado en Español Register now
- Webinar: Monday, October 28th | 2:00pm Register now
Attend in-person:
- Friday, September 13th | 10:00 am Edgebrook Public Library, 5331 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60646
- Tuesday, September 24th | 6:00 pm Ramova Theater Community Room, 3520 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60609
- Thursday, October 10th | 9:30 am Woodson Regional Public Library, 9525 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60628
Registration links coming soon.
BUSINESS AFFAIRS AND CONSUMER PROTECTION (BACP) RESOURCES
- Business Support Tools
- Neighborhood Business Development Centers: Regional hubs supporting small businesses
PROJECT READINESS
Applicants must provide proof of site control or be in the process of obtaining site control. The CDG-S program recognizes that site control before applying can be a significant barrier for individuals who do not own the proposed project site. Applicants without formal site control must provide documentation demonstrating that they are working with property sellers or landlords to secure control, such as a:
- Lease for the project location in the business's name and documentation of explicit approval from property owner for long-term use for at least five years (i.e. letter of consent from the property owner), or with the possibility of renewal
- Deed or real estate contract for the project location with the name of your business entity (as listed on the CDG-S application).
- A letter of intent for the project location, signed by both the intended lessor and lessee, including the name of your business entity (as listed on the CDG-S application).
If a property has significant issues, such as mechanic liens, court orders related to building code violations, or substantial past due property taxes, it is unlikely to be selected for a CDG grant.
Other site-related recommendations:
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Ensure the property is zoned for your proposed business type |
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Check for past due property taxes |
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Check for liens, pending cases, court orders and other issues |
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Look to see if there are any known building code violations or other disciplinary issues that need to be resolved |
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Learn how to set up and register your business |
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Free business education workshops covering a variety of relevant topics for new and seasoned business owners |
FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY CONSIDERATIONS
Applicants should provide a detailed budget and total project cost, including hard costs (e.g. building mechanical systems and façade repair), soft costs (e.g. architectural fees) and acquisition costs, where applicable.
Applicants should also demonstrate proof of financing for at least 50% of project costs. Project financing is often a challenge and may not be finalized by the time of application. Applicants who have not secured funding for their share of project costs should identify a strategy to secure the funding gap.
Other finace-related resources: Sample Construction Budget Worksheet (Excel) Sample Funding Worksheet (Excel)
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ChiBizHub is a portal for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners looking for resources to start, scale or accelerate their business in Chicago. |
CONSTRUCTION PLANNING
Applicants should provide construction bids and/or detailed estimates for substantiated construction costs. Applicants are encouraged to consult with general contractors before applying to understand the requirements, process and cost estimates. Most, if not all, grant projects require City of Chicago building permits, so it is important to understand the permitting, construction and inspection process.
Other construction planning resources:
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City of Chicago, Dept of Buildings |
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Find a licensed General Contractor |
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| The American Institute of Architects | Working with an architect (short videos) |
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The CDG-S program uses existing community plans as and input from elected officials and community representatives to identify projects that fulfill local needs and goals. Grant applicants should understand the community and be able to speak to how their proposals enhance the strengths and opportunities and/or mitigate area weaknesses or issues.
Other community-related resources:
| Learn more about plans in your community's planning initiatives | |
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Find the local ward |
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Find business and community reports for areas in Cook County |
BUSINESS PLANNING
Applicants are encouraged to research and develop business plans before making significant investments in their proposals.
The below resources help with writing business plans, calculating start-up costs, and developing financial projections. Additional resources include.
Plan Your Business with US Small Business Administration
Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Resources
Business Support from the Dept of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP)