Empowering Women-Owned Businesses: The Chicago Sky Foundation’s 2025 Cohort Applications Are Open!
CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago Sky Foundation is on a mission to support small businesses and women-owned enterprises that are making a significant community impact. This year, the foundation is actively seeking passionate business owners to join their exclusive cohort for 2025, offering a unique opportunity for growth, mentorship, and funding.
Join the Movement: Apply Now!
As part of this transformative initiative, selected businesses will participate in a comprehensive program featuring mentorship, interactive workshops, and financial support. The foundation is eager to nurture entrepreneurs who are dedicated to positively impacting their communities.
Last Year’s Success Story: Bani’s Beets
Among the notable alumni from last year’s cohort is Bani’s Beets, a health-focused business fervently committed to enhancing community well-being. Located on Hale Street (which translates to “being in good health”), Bani’s Beets exemplifies the mission of the Chicago Sky Foundation.
“That’s my hope, that every person that walks through this door not only has the quality of life but longevity,” says Auriel Banister, the visionary owner of Bani’s Beets.
The Power of Education and Health
Banister has seamlessly integrated the lessons learned from the Chicago Sky Foundation’s cohort into her business model. By addressing critical health issues like sugar dependency, she strives to educate her community through her renowned cold-pressed juices that aim to combat diseases and promote overall health.
“The juices that Ari has are just extremely beneficial for detoxification, immune support, overall health, and wellness,” shares longtime customer Jessica McCarihan.
The 2025 Program: Unleash Your Potential
The Chicago Sky Foundation is looking for the next class of game-changers who will participate in a four-week intensive program focused on strategic planning, finances, marketing, and sales. The program culminates in an exciting pitch competition where the top entrepreneurs can win
- $30,000 for the first place winner
- $20,000 for second place
- $15,000 for third place
- $5,000 for the remaining five finalists
“We want to empower women small businesses, and that’s our focus going into this year,” states Awvee Storey, Executive Director of the Chicago Sky Foundation. For the first time in its five-year journey, the 2025 cohort is exclusively dedicated to women-owned businesses.
Continuing the Legacy of Empowerment
Banister continues to make a profound impact in her community with her wellness programs, hosting everything from free fitness classes to wellness talks. She believes that being part of the program not only made her journey accessible but also invigorated her passion for her work.
If you’re a small business owner and want to be part of this motivating initiative, applications for the 2025 Chicago Sky small business cohort are now open. Click here for more information and to start your journey toward impacting your community.
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