Challenge Grants

Invest in People-Launch Ideas

Our Challenge Grant Program, funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and administered by the Southern Illinois University Entrepreneurship Centers, is open for applications from companies with high-growth potential, to fund projects that will assist a business in reaching a critical growth milestone.

Companies can apply for up to $10,000 in funding to assist them in obtaining professional services to complete a business project, such as strategic business planning, funding strategy, marketing strategy, product or technology audits, and other specialized services critical to the business' growth. Grant funds may not be used for any tangible assets. The funds have to be matched 100 percent by the company.

The application process for the award begins with an informal interview with one of the Entrepreneurship Center consultants. If the proposed project is eligible, applicants will be invited to submit a full application consisting of a brief company history, detailed project plan, description of how the proposed project will assist in meeting a growth milestone, and current financial statements. Proposal awards are determined by an independent award committee.

For additional information and to find out if your company may be eligible, contact:

Southern Illinois Entrepreneurship Center, Carbondale
618.453.3805
Or
University Entrepreneurship Center, Centralia
618.532.1086

www.siecenter.biz

Previous award recipients

Building the Region's Future Together!

To be eligible for this program, applicant companies must be Illinois businesses, for-profit structure, and have fewer than 500 employees. Additionally, applicants must show evidence of a past or projected high-growth rate and a regional, national, or international market potential.