Small Business Owners: Take Free Courses and Apply for a $10,000 Grant
The Southland Development Authority (SDA) is partnering with Verizon Small Business Digital Ready to help entrepreneurs access free business training, expert resources and an opportunity to apply for $10,000 in grant funding.
Small business owners looking to strengthen their operations, sharpen their skills or explore new growth opportunities have a chance to do so at no cost. All while potentially securing funding for their businesses.
Through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, entrepreneurs can access free online courses, expert coaching and networking opportunities covering topics such as marketing, financial management, technology, artificial intelligence and business growth.
The program also offers eligible small business owners an opportunity to apply for a $10,000 grant from Verizon and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).
How to Get Started
Participating is simple:
Create a free account through Southland Development Authority's Verizon Small Business Digital Ready partner link.
Complete two eligible courses or events during 2026 to meet the program's training requirement.
Submit a grant application to be considered for a $10,000 award.
Applicants only need to apply once to remain under consideration for subsequent awards during the 2026 program period.
For Southland Entrepreneurs
This goes beyond just funding.
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready provides entrepreneurs with practical tools. The ones they need to navigate the challenges of running and growing a business.
From improving marketing strategies to understanding emerging technologies, the platform is designed to help small business owners build skills. The kind of skills they can put to work in the real world. Immediately.
And for Southland entrepreneurs, the program offers another avenue to access resources. Expand your knowledge base. And position your businesses for long-term success.
Get Started Today
With the end of 2026 approaching, now is an opportunity to take advantage of the program's free resources and work toward grant eligibility.
Explore Verizon Small Business Digital Ready and Get Started
Grant funding is competitive and not guaranteed. Completion of the training requirement does not guarantee an award. Additional eligibility requirements and application deadlines may apply.
About the Southland Development Authority
The Southland Development Authority, a not-for-profit economic development organization, is committed to driving equitable and sustainable economic growth in the South Suburbs of Chicago. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships and impactful direct investments, the SDA is building a vibrant, inclusive economy that drives wealth growth for individuals, businesses and municipalities. Combined with the benefits of the South Suburban Land Bank and the Monarch Fund, the SDA serves as a model for regional development.
