Illinois Hemp Grant Competition
Presented by Chicago NORML and Midwest Hemp Coalition
Last year's winners Rachel Smedberg & partner Jesse of Tulip Tree Gardens.
Our Mission
There is a general lack of awareness about the emerging hemp growing and processing industry and the available career pathways. Many urban communities are missing the proverbial boat by not taking a hard look at this new market's opportunities.
The Midwest Hemp Coalition and Chicago NORML are uniquely positioned to introduce diverse communities to new hemp growing, processing, and sales innovations. Just as steel and technology have done in the past, hemp can stimulate an entire region by creating a career pipeline to prosperity.
Our Purpose
The purpose of the Grant is to increase awareness and participation in the hemp industry in Illinois. Hemp is quietly creating waves in the fields of medicine, textiles, and construction.
Federally legal with a lower barrier of entry, It is more affordable for members of disproportionately impacted areas to create business opportunities for themselves and their community if they are adequately educated and given a chance.
This grant helps small, and emerging hemp-based businesses grow and expand their products or services to diverse demographics. This grant will provide one winner with one year of free accounting, legal, and marketing services. The winner will also receive one year of licensing application fees paid and hemp education classes for two staff members.
Application Timeline
Rules & Eligibility
To be eligible you must:
- Have a primary business based in Illinois.
- Have been in business for a minimum of six months.
- Have professional staff, either paid or volunteer.
- Be at least 21 years of age or older.
There will be two rounds of presentations. Round 1 will judge the application and 3-minute video submission via YouTube video link. Exceeding the time limits will result in point deductions.
In Round One, judges will score round one participant based on 2 categories:
- Application Evaluation
- Pitch Video Submission Evaluation
Each section has 15 possible points. The 5 highest scores will be notified on October 4th, 2021, and move on to the next round.
The second round will be filmed in a one-on-one presentation with the judges at CanTV Studios during the second week in October. (Recording date is TBD). On recording day, all finalists must be present and report to CanTV Studios at 1309 S. Wood St. Chicago IL 60608.
Each contestant will have a maximum of 3-5 minutes to present during round 2.
Prizes & Sponsors!
One Year of Legal Services!
The winner will receive one year of legal services to assist with applications, legal documents, and permits.
Are you a lawyer? Apply to be a sponsor here!
One Year of Social Media Management!
The winner will receive social media management and Facebook marketing services.
Become a sponsor here!
One Year of Accounting Services!
Accounting services will be provided by a Certified Public Accountant or accounting firm. Services will include consultation and money management.
Cash Prizes!
Runners up will receive $150. Grand prize winners will receive a year of the professional services listed as well as $350 cash!
Win exclusive cash prizes and business support worth $3000!
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