Mayor Brandon Johnson, Department of Planning and Development Announce Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Grants For 11 Chicago Businesses

CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) have announced the recipients of the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) grants, totaling over $2.1 million. The grants will support 11 projects in various neighborhoods on the South, Southwest, and West Sides of Chicago.

The NOF program aims to transform vacant and underutilized spaces into job opportunities, cultural spaces, and neighborhood anchors that reflect the unique strengths and creativity of each community. Mayor Johnson expressed his support for these investments, stating that they are meant to support the Chicagoans who have long been driving economic activity and community growth in these areas.

The grants range from $60,000 to $250,000 and will support a variety of improvement projects valued at $5.5 million. This includes eight renovations of existing business locations and three buildouts for new enterprises.

According to DPD Commissioner Ciere Boatright, these projects fulfill multiple community needs that would not be possible through traditional financing sources. They also contribute to making neighborhoods more convenient, walkable, and desirable by supporting a critical mass of nearby projects.

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The awardees and grant amounts include Altogether Lovely Inc., Chanette's Hair Emporium, GK Group LLC, Goulart Travel, J & J Gonzalez Inc., Karaoke On The Ave!, Lawndale Christian Health Center, Sacred Memories Funeral Home, Shawn Michelle's Homemade Ice Cream, The Community Theater/The Joseph's Place, and Wolf Village.

These grantees were selected from 106 proposals submitted to DPD in late 2025 and early 2026. Applications were evaluated based on project readiness, neighborhood needs, and other criteria.

The grants will reimburse up to 75% of eligible costs for new construction and rehabilitation. Additional funding is also available for soft costs such as design and technical assistance.

Since its inception in 2017, the NOF program has provided $17.6 million to 113 Chicago businesses. The grants are funded by density bonus fees paid by downtown construction projects, with 80% of the proceeds being used to support small businesses and cultural projects in West, Southwest, and South Side commercial corridors. The remaining funds are split between designated landmarks and downtown infrastructure.

Applications for the NOF grants are accepted on a rolling basis, with the next evaluation deadlines occurring on May 15 and August 14. For more information, interested parties can visit Chicago.gov/NOF.

The NOF grants serve as a testament to the city's commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting economic growth in underserved communities. Through these investments, Mayor Johnson and the DPD hope to continue transforming vacant spaces into thriving hubs of activity that benefit both residents and visitors alike.

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