Supporting Local Entrepreneurs at Every Stage
StartUp Starved Rock Incubator Program
Starting or growing a small business can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone.
A New Kind of Business Incubator
The StartUp Starved Rock Incubator Program was created to support new and early-stage small business owners in Ottawa, Illinois by providing seed funding, education, mentorship, and local connections during the most critical stages of business development.
Whether you’re still shaping your idea, have recently launched, or are working to gain traction, this program is designed to help you take meaningful next steps with confidence.
Assistance with startup costs
Ongoing training and support
Meaningful business connections
What Is StartUp Starved Rock?
StartUp Starved Rock is a local business incubator focused on reducing barriers for entrepreneurs and strengthening Ottawa’s small business community. The program offers a combination of hands-on learning, one-on-one support, and limited seed funding to help participants build strong, sustainable businesses.
This is not a one-size-fits-all program. It’s built to meet business owners where they are — and help them move forward.
StartUp Starved Rock is sponsored by the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce and the Ottawa Downtown Association.
Who should apply?
You’re encouraged to apply if you:
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Have a business idea you’re ready to explore
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Recently launched a business (under 1 year old)
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Are an early-stage business owner looking for guidance
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Plan to operate in Ottawa, Illinois
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Are eager to learn, grow, and engage with local resources
You do not need to have everything figured out. A clear idea, realistic goals, and a willingness to learn matter more than perfection.
What Participants Receive
Selected businesses will receive:
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Seed funding to help offset early startup or growth expenses
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Business education focused on planning, finances, marketing, and operations
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Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals, including professional recommendations, licensing and compliance assistance, and business consulting
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Connections to local resources and support organizations, including a 1-year, complimentary membership in the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce
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Visibility and recognition as a participating member of StartUp Starved Rock
Participants may also be featured in press releases, photo opportunities, and promotional materials highlighting local entrepreneurship.
This program is about investing in people with ideas and helping them take the next step. By supporting local entrepreneurs, we’re strengthening Ottawa’s business community and long-term economic vitality.”
FAQs
The mission of StartUp Starved Rock is to establish a thriving downtown Ottawa by providing new business owners with the tools, knowledge, funding, and favorable leasing opportunities necessary to launch and successfully sustain a brick-and-mortar storefront.
The program is open to:
- New or recently established businesses located in Ottawa, Illinois
- Businesses that have not previously operated under a City of Ottawa business license or are in the very early stages of operation
- Independent businesses (non-MLM)
- Businesses with a clear plan to operate within the Ottawa community
- Note: meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection
Up to six (6) businesses will be selected for this funding round.
Each selected business may receive up to $1,500 in reimbursable startup funding.
“Up to” means:
- Funds are reimbursed after qualifying expenses are incurred
- Reimbursement is based on approved expense categories and documentation
- Businesses may receive less than $1,500 if total approved expenses are lower
Reimbursable expenses may include:
- Equipment and tools
- Signage and branding materials
- Initial marketing and advertising
- Inventory
- Licensing and permit fees
All expenses must be directly related to launching or operating the business and must be approved by the program administrators.
Funding may not be used for:
- Personal expenses
- Payroll or wages
- Rent or utilities
- Debt repayment
- Ongoing operational costs unrelated to startup activities
- Multi-level marketing (MLM) businesses
Selected businesses will:
- Submit proof of purchase (receipts, invoices, or paid statements)
- Complete a brief reimbursement request form
- Receive reimbursement for approved expenses, up to the $1,500 maximum
Reimbursements will only be issued after expenses are incurred and documentation is reviewed.
Participation in scheduled training sessions and workshops is a required component of the program for brand-new businesses. These sessions are designed to help businesses build strong foundations and make the most of the funding opportunity. The cost of the training will be reimbursed by StartUp Starved Rock at the completion of the course.
What kind of training is included?
Training may include topics such as:
- Business planning and financial basics
- Marketing and branding
- Permits, licensing, and compliance
Leasing and landlord negotiations - Local resources and support networks
Why StartUp Starved Rock?
Strong small businesses are the backbone of a strong community. By investing in local entrepreneurs, StartUp Starved Rock aims to support long-term economic growth, encourage innovation, and help small businesses succeed right here in Ottawa.
This program is about investing in people — their ideas, their determination, and their role in shaping the future of our community.
The Ottawa Downtown Association and the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry gratefully acknowledge funding grants made possible by Midland States Bank and the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation.