Venture Capital
North America
OPEN
GRANT · HOW TO WIN THIS
$2,000 (Fall, women-owned) or $2,500 (Winter/Spring, all businesses); awarded twice per year
Runs biannually; the Winter 2026 cycle closed February 16, 2026. Check the funder's site for the next Fall or Winter round.
FUNDING TYPE
Venture Capital
CAN YOU GET THIS?
You must be a for-profit small business operating in the Fox Valley/Heart of the Valley area for at least one year and a current Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce member.
The Fall cycle awards two $2,000 grants specifically to female business owners, presented in October. The Winter/Spring cycle awards one $2,500 grant open to all small businesses, presented in March.
YOUR REAL ODDS
Only one to two businesses win per cycle, making this a highly competitive local award.
Priority goes to applicants where the award would have the most substantial impact on operations or growth. The pool is limited to chamber members in a specific geographic area, which narrows competition somewhat.
WHAT IT TAKES
Join the Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce if not already a member — Before applying
Prepare your application, including a W9, photo/headshot, and business logo — 1-3 days
Submit application by the cycle deadline — By deadline at 12pm
If selected, attend the awards presentation event — One evening in March or October
WORTH KNOWING
The Fall cycle is reserved exclusively for female business owners, so women-owned businesses should consider applying in that round where the competition is more targeted. The Winter/Spring cycle is open to all members and carries a slightly higher award of $2,500.
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