Two important deadlines are approaching for Chicago Treasurer’s Office (CTO) programs to help small businesses and 2026 college-bound Chicago Public School graduates.
Chicago Stars Awards Support Small Business
The Chicago Stars Awards (CSA) return this year to spotlight the small businesses driving neighborhood investment, local spending, and economic growth across the City. The program is a citywide initiative created to celebrate and support the entrepreneurs, storefronts, and emerging brands helping shape the future of Chicago’s economy. Nominations for the program are open through August 1, 2026.
“We encourage Chicago residents to nominate the businesses they believe are helping shape the future of their neighborhoods through entrepreneurship, innovation, community leadership, and local investment,” said Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin. “The Chicago Stars Awards aim to encourage residents to intentionally support local businesses and keep dollars circulating within Chicago communities.”
Since launching the initiative, the Chicago Stars Awards and its Chicago Star Directory have highlighted 97 small businesses from across Chicago.
Businesses selected will receive recognition during a special Chicago Stars Awards Ceremony, including
· A custom award and certificate from the Office of the Chicago City Treasurer
· Promotion through the Treasurer’s Office social media platforms, newsletter, and press outreach
· Access to networking opportunities and business development resources
· A subscription to the Chicago Star Business Brief, featuring grants, expert advice, and tools designed to support business growth
To nominate a business or learn more about the Chicago Stars Awards, visit: chicagocitytreasurer.com/chicagostars or Chicago Stars Awards. Also, explore featured businesses in the Chicago Star Directory.
2026 Empowerment Scholarship for $5000
Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin and the Chicago Treasurer’s Office will award Empowerment Scholarships to first-year students entering a four-year accredited institution in the fall of 2026. The one-time, $5,000 awards will be presented later this summer.
The Empowerment Scholarships will be awarded to Chicago Public School (CPS) students as part of the CTO’s 2026 college scholarship program sponsored by community partners, BMO, First Eagle, Ullico Investments, and Chicago Sky.
To be eligible for the $5,000 award, which will be used to pay for any education-related expenses, a student must be enrolled in a 4-year college or university in the fall of 2026 and submit a completed application, including an essay, high school transcripts and other required materials through the CPS portal by 11:59 pm on Thursday, July 31, 2026.
