NICI Impact Grant Celebrates Thriving Think Big! Business Incubator
Established in 2018, Think Big! is an entrepreneurial accelerator and business incubator providing comprehensive education, professional coaching and technical assistance that strengthen business readiness and long-term sustainability. Think Big! hosts two signature programs: Think Big 1.0, which helps aspiring entrepreneurs formalize their ideas and create actionable launch plans; and Think Big 2.0, an accelerator designed to support emerging and scaling business owners.
Think Big!’s fifth year of Impact Grant funding will directly contribute to the program staff, business coaches and administrative support needed for day-to-day operations, program coordination and 1-on-1 coaching and mentorship, all with the goal of ensuring participant success. The organization will also use funding for its high-engagement events including the Think Big Expo, Pitch Competition, Business Crawl and new programs like the Launch Lab and Business Showers.
“We are deeply honored and grateful to receive this continued investment from Nicor Illinois Community Investment. This $150,000 Impact Grant represents more than funding; it is a vote of confidence in the entrepreneurs, families and communities we serve every day. At Think Big Corporation, we believe that when people are given access to the right resources, education and opportunities, they can transform their futures and create lasting economic impact. We are proud to continue this partnership and remain committed to empowering individuals to think bigger, build stronger businesses and strengthen our community together.
— Dr. Sheila Hill, President & CEO, Think Big Corporation