Participate in our program

Start or grow your business with in the CRECER Business Incubator Program! The CRECER Business Incubator Program is a 3 month program that that combines cohort-based training, individualize advising, technical assistance and small business incubation through real time vending. The incubator program's main purpose is to catalyze the process of starting and growing retail businesses by providing entrepreneurs with the expertise, networks, and the tools they need to make their businesses successful. 

What the Program Offers

• Business advising and training

• 3 months of subsidized rent at $125/month ($375/for 3 months) 

• One-on-one technical assistance and training

• Marketing and promotion of business

• Shared space to hold events that promote the incubator and your business 

• Assistance finding a permanent space post-incubator

Requirement:​

• Startup or existing business are eligible to apply. You must have been in business at least 1 year at time of application (both formal or informal). 

• Must be registered with the State of Illinois, have an EIN, and Sales Tax Account

• This program is not conducive to kitchen operations, bar operations, hair salons, or other businesses with high renovation needs. If you have questions about your business being the right fit, please reach out.

• Applicants are highly encouraged to meet with a Business Advisor from the Northwest Side CDC prior to submitting their application

• Businesses must have an online presence . If this isn't fully developed at the time of application, we will help you.

• If awarded space in the program, the business owner must commit to monthly meetings with a Business Advisor for the duration of their time in the incubator

• Applicants must be growth-minded and interested in moving their business to a storefront post incubator

• Must be a team player with the ability to partner with the other businesses to manage the space. The NWSCDC is providing you the space and will not be onsite full time. We are committed to being present in the space two days a week, you are to treat the space as if this is your own storefront. 

 

Timeline 

• 2/3/2025: Applications Open

• Ongoing applications

• Deadline for first round of applicants 3/31/25 at 11:59pm

(Timeline may be subject to change)

Want to be part of the program? Complete our application. 

​

Crecer Business Expectations:​

• Business hours are Monday to Friday from 1pm to 7pm; Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

• Cleaning of the space is a shared responsibility amongst businesses in the program.

• Business owners will be required to lead an event in the space. 

• Business owners will be required to do monthly reporting on sales, jobs created and business goals.

• Rent will be  $125/month for the 3 months of the program. Paid up front.  

​