Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle Announces Extension of Application Deadline for Catalyst Grant

COOK COUNTY, IL — Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced today the extension of the application deadline for the Catalyst Grant, an opportunity for up to 88 established businesses in select industries to receive $100,000 to fuel their next stage of growth. Applications are now open until Nov. 14, 2025, at 5 p.m. CT. The original deadline was Oct. 31, 2025.  

The program is the first effort led by the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development aimed at supporting growing and established businesses throughout the County with annual sales of over $500,000.  

"We want to ensure as many eligible businesses as possible are aware of the Catalyst Grant, which provides a unique opportunity to scale up operations, accelerating the journey to sustainable success,” said President Preckwinkle. "My administration remains committed to providing local businesses with a strong support network and access to vital resources."    

To be eligible, businesses must be located in Cook County and operate in one of the following industries: construction; finance and insurance; information technology; manufacturing; professional services; or real estate. Industries were chosen based on several factors, including profitability, growth trends and the number of businesses located in Cook County. 

Eligible businesses also must have documented 2023 and 2024 revenue between $500,000 and $10 million, along with demonstrated growth. Selected recipients must use their funds to address hiring or training employees; upgrading facilities; or expanding operations. The application and full list of eligibility requirements are available here. 

Allies for Community Business and the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) are the program administrators for the Catalyst Grant. Both organizations are part of the Cook County Small Business Source, which provides access to business advising, resources and events—at no cost to business owners. 

Application assistance is available to interested businesses through The Source’s network of 13 Business Support Organizations, including Allies for Community Business and the WBDC. A help desk is also available, as well as several helpful online assets including a video explaining the application process and a checklist for applicants. 

Applicants will receive notification of their status in early 2026 and Cook County will distribute funds in spring 2026. 

For more information on the Cook County Catalyst Grant, visit cookcountysmallbiz.org/catalystgrant.