Get Capital to Grow
How Benefit Chicago helps:
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Patient
We understand that creating change takes time, so investments are structured with timeframes that make sense.
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Flexible
We meet the needs of the unconventional borrower with customized terms.
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Supportive
We understand your business needs and provide guidance throughout the process.
We Provide Capital To
For-profit Businesses
with a clear mission, social impact, and a sound model that are looking to grow or expand
Nonprofits
that amplify their mission with a strong financial model
Financial Intermediaries
that fund small businesses or nonprofit community development ventures
Available Financing
Includes a range of investment structures, such as loans, equity investments in funds, loan participations, and pay-for-success transactions. Capital can be used in a variety of ways to strengthen your enterprise and grow your impact.
Thinking About Applying?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The minimum amount for a loan or investment is $500,000, and applicants must have:
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A focus on underinvested communities or populations in the Chicago region
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A location in Chicago or the surrounding six-county area
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An anticipated measurable, positive impact on community or entrepreneurial wealth-building, job creation, or skills development
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The ability to repay the loan or provide a return on the investment
Have more questions? Check out our FAQ or download our application preview.
Borrowers Like You
Community Investment Corporation
Providing loans for the acquisition, rehabilitation, and preservation, of affordable rental housing.
Borrowers Like You
Chicago Community Loan Fund
Assisting the economic revitalization and redevelopment of South and West side communities of Chicago through loans and technical assistance.
Borrowers Like You
NowPow
Connecting patients from under-resourced communities on the South and West sides of Chicago with the medical care and relationships they need.
Borrowers Like You
Community Reinvestment Fund
Providing loans and advisory services to small businesses so they can create jobs and revitalize communities in South Shore, Lawndale, and Maywood.
Borrowers Like You
AutonomyWorks
Providing meaningful employment for adults with autism in the Chicagoland region.
Borrowers Like You
Garfield Produce
Creating sustainable local employment and wealth in East Garfield Park by producing and selling high-quality fresh produce year-round.
Borrowers Like You
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
Raising funds that are invested through community-based organizations throughout Chicago by acting as a community development intermediary.
Borrowers Like You
Sweet Beginnings
Providing job training in North Lawndale to community residents who have had difficulties finding gainful employment.
Borrowers Like You
IFF
Supporting nonprofit-sponsored community facilities projects, from affordable housing to community centers, through real estate development and consulting.
Borrowers Like You
Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives (CNI)
Revitalizing Chicago’s economically challenged neighborhoods, particularly in the Pullman community
Want to Learn More?
Get in touch and be part of the impact.
We’re Here to Help.
Send us a message or give us a call.
Applying for Capital
Prepare to apply
Gather materials. You must have:
a. Governing Documents (Bylaws, LLC Agreement, Charter, etc.)
b. Tax Letter confirming Public Charity Status (if applicable)
c. CDFI Certification (if applicable)
d. Key management bios or resumes
e. Board and committee rosters
f. Audited or management prepared financial statements
Submit an application online
Click ‘Start Application’, create an account, and answer questions about your organization and the purpose for which you are seeking capital through our online application portal. Upload basic information, like your annual report, audits, and business plan.
Confirm your eligibility
We will be in touch within 14 days to discuss your status and next steps, including referrals to other capital providers if warranted. If eligible, we will ask you for additional information to learn more about the request.
Review and Due Diligence
If your organization qualifies, the underwriting and approval process can take from three to six months, depending on the nature of the application.
You’re done!
If you’ve been approved….
You will receive a letter of commitment and work with our staff to complete the transaction.
If you’ve been denied…
We will direct you to sources of capital that more closely address your needs, if possible.