The BRP Accelerator Grant:

$500 for Small Businesses Ready to Grow

Award amount: $500 per quarter
Award type: Direct funding — no repayment, no equity stake
Who can apply: For-profit businesses and nonprofits in eligible counties
How often: Awarded quarterly
Selection priority: BRP program graduates are given preference during review
Application fee: $15 (non-refundable)

** Applicants who have completed BRP programming, including the Idea to First Dollar Incubator, a BRP Master Class, or other educational programming, are given priority consideration.

Are You Eligible?

Your business must operate in one of the following counties to qualify:

Wisconsin: Dane, Grant, Iowa, Jefferson, Kenosha, Lafayette, Milwaukee, Racine, Rock, Walworth, Waukesha

Illinois: Boone, Lake, McHenry, Stephenson, Winnebago

You'll also need to provide proof of active business status (a free screenshot from the Wisconsin DFI or Illinois Secretary of State database is accepted).

The BRP Accelerator Grant supports eligible businesses with $500 in funding, intended to empower the ongoing growth of for-profit or non-profit organizations in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

No payback. No ownership stake.

This grant provides direct support without requiring repayment, equity, or partial ownership in your business.

Applying is easy. We look forward to learning about you!

BRP Accelerator Grant Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay it back?

No. This is a grant, not a loan. There is no repayment required and BRP takes no ownership stake in your business.

Can nonprofits apply?

Yes. Both for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations are eligible.

What can the money be used for?

It's up to you. Applicants are asked to describe how they plan to use the funds, but there are no strict spending restrictions. Common uses include tools, licenses, inventory, marketing, and operational costs.

How often is the grant awarded?

No. Anyone operating a business in an eligible county can apply. However, BRP program graduates are given priority during the review process.

What counts as proof of active business status?

A free screenshot or PDF from the Wisconsin DFI or Illinois Secretary of State business search is accepted. Paid certificates are accepted but not required.