The Business Development Fund provides a reimbursement-based grant of up to $25,000 to help eligible applicants start, expand, or strengthen business activity in Cook County. Awards are structured with tiered matching requirements (so you typically pay first and are reimbursed after approved proof of purchase and completion steps). The program generally allows only one active grant at a time, meaning you must close out one award before applying for another. Ideal uses often include business-ready investments like equipment, build-out/repairs, operational upgrades, and other eligible growth expenses—especially those that improve stability, capacity, and local economic impact.