Delta Institute’s “BOOST” program provides one of the most critical areas of need to support Chicago’s aspiring entrepreneurs in increasing access to early-stage capital to get their ideas off the ground. Now entering its 14th year, the program has awarded small business grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to early-stage innovators in the Midwest with ideas that promote environmental sustainability.
“BOOST” stands for “Building Opportunities for Original and Sustainable Thinking.” Since its inception, Delta Institute has awarded $136,000 to 22 start-ups like Block Bins, Chicago Tool Library, Eco.Logic, EcoShip, Gardeneers, Lillian Augusta Beauty, Southside Blooms, The Urban Canopy, and Zumwalt Acres. For 2026, Delta Institute is pleased to announce the following four finalists will participate in this year’s BOOST program:
Sarah Horn of Eco Chic Events
“Eco Chic Events provides sustainable party supplies, from reusable cups, plates and linens, to decor and reusable balloons, sourced almost 100% secondhand. Our goal is to make it as easy as possible to have a sustainable and adorable party, no matter the size.” Click here to visit their website.
Ellen White of Ecofixr
Nathan Czuba of Midwest Science and Salvage
“Midwest Science & Salvage reclaims materials from closing factories and labs, offering metal, hardware, tools, and industrial surplus by the pound. Affordable, practical, Rust Belt–rooted supplies for makers, machinists, and builders.”
Sherry Skalko of Reduce Waste Chicago
Join us April 22 to vote for your favorite sustainability start-up
Each finalist will pitch their ideas in front of a live audience at a special event held in Chicago, which will be held on Earth Day: April 22, 2026. At the event, all 100+ guests listen to each entrepreneur’s pitch and then cast their votes for their favorite start-up idea. At the end of the evening, we announce the results and award grants to the winning entrepreneurs and runners-up on stage.
Delta Institute’s 14th annual BOOST event will be held:
- Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
- Time: 5pm-8pm
- Venue: Salesforce Tower Chicago; 333 W Wolf Point Plaza; Chicago, IL, 60654
Ticket sales include catered food, beer, and wine for guests. All event proceeds support the work of Delta Institute, a 501c3 nonprofit with a mission to collaborate with communities throughout the Midwest. BOOST is organized by the Delta Emerging Leaders associate board of Delta Institute.