Ottawa, IL – The Ottawa Downtown Association and the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the nine recipients of the 2026 StartUp Starved Rock Grant, a program designed to support new and emerging businesses in downtown Ottawa.
Following a highly competitive application process that drew 26 applicants, nine businesses have been selected for their strong business plans, demonstrated community need, and potential to contribute to the continued growth and vibrancy of Ottawa’s downtown. Originally, the program sought to fund up to 6 businesses, but were so impressed with the quality of applications, they sought additional seed funding from the City of Ottawa for three more applicants.
The 2026 StartUp Starved Rock Grant recipients are:
- Alphabet Avenue
- Coincide
- Fantzy’s
- LUXX
- Organix Emporium
- Radium Records
- Scripture Bread
- Shaped
- Starved Rock Hikers
Each recipient will receive up to $1,500 in reimbursable startup funds to support qualifying business expenses such as equipment, inventory, signage, and marketing. In addition, participants will take part in business incubator training led by Connor Cofoid at Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC), gaining valuable insight and mentorship as they launch and grow their ventures.
Beyond funding and training, recipients will also benefit from ongoing marketing exposure and business support, including a one-year membership with the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce. This comprehensive approach ensures that participants are equipped with the tools, resources, and connections needed for long-term success.
“The response to this program has been incredibly encouraging,” said Heather Pursley, Vice President of the Ottawa Downtown Association. “We are inspired by the passion and innovation shown by all applicants and are excited to support these businesses as they take the next step. Programs like StartUp Starved Rock play a vital role in strengthening our local economy and fostering a thriving downtown.”
The StartUp Starved Rock Grant is made possible through the generous financial support of Midland States Bank, the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, and the City of Ottawa. Their commitment to small business development and community investment continues to make a meaningful impact in Ottawa. We are grateful to our selection committee for their insights and help in selecting the winning businesses. The committee was comprised of Anna Wright, Tangled Roots; Amanda Weygand-Zehr, Open Space Art Gallery and Studios; Jay McCracken and Caitlyn Tucker, Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce, and Cassi Skoflanc and Heather Pursley, Ottawa Downtown Association.
