The Business Initiation Grant provides qualifying, new business startups with a "leg up" at their most critical time.  The grant offers up to $5,000 for startup costs to qualified applicants.  The entrepreneur is required to participate in a business planning workshop through one of Englewood's economic partners.  The business owner must have a fully developed business plan which will be reviewed by the experts at the Aurora-South Small Business Development Center.  Grant funding may be used for any valid purpose and a physical storefront  or business presence in a commercial or industrial district is required.  Capital improvements are permanent investments in the building or on the property, which are generally associated with a building permit.

Businesses opened in Englewood within the last 12 months are eligible to apply.  Grant funding is limited, and not all businesses that apply may be funded.

Grant Application