Momentum Grounds for Change is the nonprofit arm of Momentum Coffee, Chicago’s Black-owned, community-rooted café network. We are dedicated to building economic ecosystems where local residents—especially Black entrepreneurs—are owners and agents of their community’s prosperity.
To catalyze community-owned economic empowerment by supporting food, retail, construction, and housing enterprises—founded, led, and sustained by residents of the neighborhoods we serve.

The Momentum Food Incubator Program is designed to help aspiring and early-stage food entrepreneurs turn ideas into sustainable businesses. Through mentorship, practical training, business planning support, and access to real-world industry insight, the program helps participants better understand what it takes to launch, operate, and grow a food-based venture.

The Youth Technology and STEM Program introduces young people to the tools, skills, and ways of thinking they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The program is designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and creativity through hands-on learning experiences in technology, digital literacy, innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship.

A public education and engagement platform featuring workshops, panels, and talks on entrepreneurship, community development, and issues impacting our neighborhoods. By hosting discussions in accessible community-centered spaces, Momentum Grounds for Change helps turn conversation into action and information into empowerment.

The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Program supports emerging and existing entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and guidance needed to build stronger businesses. This work is especially important for founders who have talent, vision, and community support but limited access to traditional networks and resources. The program reflects our broader mission of fueling equity by helping people move from hustle to structure, from survival to ownership, and from isolated effort to supported growth.
Reach out to us for any general inquiries, details on catering services, collaborations, event space rental, or to explore exciting opportunities to join our team!