Applications are now open for Hatch Bloomington Loves Local

Bloomington small businesses can now apply for a share of $100,000 through Hatch Bloomington Loves Local, a special 2026 edition of the City’s annual Hatch Bloomington program.

This year, the City will provide financial assistance to multiple existing Bloomington businesses to help strengthen operations, support growth and invest in their future.

“There’s such a need in our business community for support, given how difficult the times have been between tariffs, Operation Metro Surge, gas prices and so on,” said Mayor Tim Busse. “We want to be able to help our existing business community.”

Eligible businesses must operate a brick-and-mortar location in Bloomington and have 50 or fewer full-time employees.

Applications are open now through July 6. A panel of local business leaders and community representatives will review applications and select 10 businesses to advance to a live pitch event on July 29. Up to five businesses will receive funding out of the $100,000 award.

Applications will be evaluated based on demonstrated financial need and the applicant’s plan to use the funds to strengthen their business, expand operations or support jobs in Bloomington.

Ready to apply? Visit hatchbloomington.com to review eligibility requirements and submit an application.