The Ladder by Chicago Innovation
2024-10-16
Chicago Innovation is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for our 7th cohort of The Ladder, Chicago Innovation’s dynamic mentoring program designed to support Black and Latine professionals.
This next cohort will run from January to June 2025. Don’t miss your chance to be paired with an amazing mentor who will help you tackle today’s challenges, grow personally, and accelerate your career! art of pitching.
Please visit HERE for more information and registration details.
EOD For registration is on October 16, 2024.

Garba/Dandiya
2024-10-18 18:00 - 21:00 UTC
Garba/Dandiya
This participatory performance brings people in the Devon Avenue community together through a celebratory dance performance with the Mandala Ensemble. This participatory event brings people in the Devon Avenue community together through a celebratory dance performance with the Mandala Ensemble. After simple lessons to learn the dance, Mandala invites participants to dance the night away. With its origins in the Indian state of Gujarat, this dance has become a global phenomenon.
Schedule:
6pm – 7pm: simple lessons to learn the dance
7pm – 9pm: dance to dj ed music
GET YOUR TICKETS
Visit Chicago Asian Network’s Website for more information.

Translating South Asia: An evening in Chicago
2024-10-29 18:00 - 20:00 | South Asia Institute (1925 South Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60616)
Join International Booker Prize winning translator Daisy Rockwell, JCB Prize winning Malayalam translator Jayasree Kalathil, and others read from their translations from Bangla, Hindi, Malayalam, Panjabi, Sinhala, Tamil, and more.
South Asian Literature in Translation (SALT) and the South Asia Institute (SAI) are thrilled to host this first-of-its-kind event in Chicago to celebrate the literary richness of South Asia.
October 29, 2024, 6 to 8 pm, including light bites
SAI, 1925 S Michigan Ave, Chicago 60616
Admission ($5) will be waived for students
visit Chicago Asian Network for more details on registration and list of presenters.

2024 Finding Light Through the Darkness Diwali Fundraiser
2024-11-07 | Recess at City Hall (838 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60642)
On Thursday, November 7th, Brown Man Therapy (BMT) hosts its second annual Diwali fundraiser, Finding Light Through the Darkness, focused on advancing mental health awareness within the South Asian community. Following last year’s sold-out event, this year’s fundraiser will take place in a larger venue and feature an award ceremony recognizing mental health champions alongside a lineup of culture-inspired programming.
Proceeds from this evening will support BMT’s mission to create safe storytelling spaces, employ data-backed mental health practices, and foster a stronger, supportive South Asian community. Funds will also help sustain BMT’s programs, including workshops, panel discussions, and creating inclusive spaces for sharing personal journeys and exploring mental health in impactful ways.
About Brown Man Therapy (BMT):
BMT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health education, inclusivity, and community engagement, particularly for South Asian men. Recognizing that addressing men’s mental health strengthens all communities, BMT champions open discussions around mental wellness, encouraging South Asians everywhere to seek and share support.
Tickets for this meaningful night are available now—don’t miss an evening of celebration, connection, and positive impact!
for more information, visit Chicago Asian Network’s website.

SAI Music And Movement Series: Faraway Ghost & Sunken Cages feat. Amirah Sackett
2024-11-08 19:00 - 21:00 | 1925 South Michigan AveChicago, IL 60616
Indian-born Ravish Momin (aka Sunken Cages) accompanies Iranian multi-instrumentalist Kamyar Arsani (aka Faraway Ghost)’s vocals and daf (frame-drum) with a masterful blend of electronic and acoustic percussion, including live-looping via his unique drum-loop performance system. The ensemble’s international tour coincides with a new release on the global-music label from France, Akuphone Records.
For their Chicago engagement and rounding out the SAI “Music and Movement” series, the duo will be joined by Muslim-American dancer Amirah Sackett with choreographed movements, drawing inspiration from hip-hop and Middle Eastern dance styles. As Muslim American composers, dancers and performers are largely underrepresented in experimental/global music in the US, we will include a Q & A session with the artists and audience following the performance.
For more information, please visit The South Asian Institute’s website.

Grant Opportunities
2024-11-11 - 2024-12-04
Breakfast After the Bell Grant Program
This program supports the implementation of the Breakfast After the Bell service model in schools to make school breakfast more accessible to students.
Eligible applicants are education organizations or Illinois schools that operate a Breakfast After the Bell program under Section 16 of the Childhood Hunger Relief Act (105 ILCS 126).
The grant reward is subject to appropriations. The application deadline is November 11th, 2024, by 4:00 PM.
For more details, please contact Emily Durbin at 217-524-1819 or by email at edurbin@isbe.net.

Clean Energy Career Pathway Program
The program will provide funding directly to eligible recipients to support the planning and implementation of a Clean Energy Career Pathway. This will include coursework, field experiences, and work-based learning designed to prepare students for entrance into careers focusing on electric vehicles.
Eligible applicants and requirements for the funding will be listed in the notice of funding opportunity.
The program’s reward ranges from $100,000 – $500,000. The application deadline is November 12th, 2024, by 5:00 PM.
For more details, please contact John Barr at 312-805-9505 or through email at john.w.barr@illinois.gov.
The Reproductive Health Security Grant
This Grant provides funding to eligible reproductive health care facilities in Illinois that provide reproductive health care services, including abortion, and that are determined to be at a high risk of being targeted by unlawful activity (acts of violence, property damage, vandalism, harassment, etc.).
Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations, government organizations, education organizations, and for-profit organizations.
The grant award ranges up to $450,000. The application deadline is November 12th, 2024, by 5:00 PM (CST).
For more details, please contact Lisa Masinter at 312-814-1884 or through email at
Lisa.masinter@illinois.gov.

The Birth Equity Innovation Seed Grants
The grant is to support community-based organizations that are performing or planning
innovative and community-based work with the goal of reducing inequities in maternal and infant health care and outcomes.
It is also intended to provide funding to organizations with authentic ties to communities most impacted by these inequities to establish new programs or to maintain existing programs that implement programming and policies supporting equitable access to maternal care.
For eligible applicants, please visit the link provided and download the file for details: https://omb.illinois.gov/public/gata/csfa/Opportunity.aspx?nofo=2930.
The grant award ranges up to $1,000,000. The application deadline is November 12th, 2024, by 5:00 PM (CST).
For more details, please contact Lisa Masinter at 312-814-1884 or through email at Lisa.masinter@illinois.gov.

The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP)
The TAP program provides a fund source for a variety of smaller- scale transportation projects such as: pedestrian and bicycle facilities, recreational trails, safe routes to school projects, community improvements such as historic preservation and vegetation management, and environmental mitigation related to stormwater and habitat connectivity.
Eligible applicants are government and nonprofit organizations. In addition, the program is
limited to metropolitan planning organizations with a +200,000 population.
The program award is subject to appropriations. The deadline for the program is November 18th, 2024, by 5:00 PM (CST).
For more details, please contact Lee Ann Prather at (217) 524-3509 or through email at
LeeAnn.Prather@illinois.gov.

Statewide Re-enrollment Strategy Grant
The Illinois Board Of Higher Education has announced the establishment of the
Statewide Re-enrollment Strategy Grant to support the re-enrollment of adult learners who
started college but never earned a degree or credential.
Eligible applicants are those organizations that can manage a state-wide coordinated strategy that includes but is not limited to, the following services: data analytics, multi-channel marketing, live professional coaching, and a platform-based user experience.
The Board of Higher Education anticipates awarding an organization up to $2,000,000. The application deadline is November 21st, 2024, by 12:00 PM (CST).
For more details, please contact John Barr at 312-805-9505 or through email at john.w.barr@illinois.gov.

The Illinois Grocery Initiative New Stores in Food Deserts Program

Aims to address the challenge of food deserts in areas that meet specific criteria related to: poverty standards, population density, and limited fresh food accessibility.
Eligible applicants are entities that must register in the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal, https://grants.illinois.gov/portal.
The grant reward ranges from $150,000 to $2,400,000. The application deadline is December 2nd, 2024, by 5:00 PM.
For more details, please contact John O’Conner at 217-993-2275 or through email at
CEO.GroceryInitiative@illinois.gov.

Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program
This program seeks to identify a network of at least 13 Illinois Clean Jobs Program delivery hub sites (“Workforce Hubs”) throughout the State to recruit and provide clean energy and related workforce training to job seekers.
Eligible applicants are government organizations, education organizations, and nonprofit organizations.
The grant reward ranges from $100,000 to $4,000,000. The application deadline is December 2nd, 2024, by 5:00 PM.
For more details, please contact John O’Conner at 217-993-2275 or through email at
CEO.GroceryInitiative@illinois.gov.

The Community Development Block Grant Housing Rehabilitation Program
The program is intended to help housing projects which preserve single-families, owner
occupied housing, encourage neighborhood revitalization and emphasizes the dual goal of
serving low-to-moderate income households and improving the quality of housing in
Communities.
Eligible applicants are only units of general local government (i.e., cities, villages, townships and counties) may apply for funding.
For more details, please contact Wendy Bell at 217-558-4200 or through email
atceo.ocd@illinois.gov.
The program award ranges from $300,000 – $6,500,000. The application deadline is December 4th, 2024, by 5:00 PM (CST).

Let’s Talk about Heritage - Community Discussion
2024-11-23 14:00 - 14:30 | Heritage Museum of Asian Art (3500 South Morgan Street #3rd Fl Chicago, IL 60609)
Explore an inspiring conversation on heritage, legacy, and the path forward with our community’s art and culture leaders, hosted in partnership with the South Asia Institute, Asian Improv aRts Midwest, the Abrahamic Center for Cultural Education, Butoh Chicago, and more.
visit Chicago Asian Network‘s website for more information.

Brown Noise - A Kinda Brown Comedy Show
2024-11-30 22:00 - 23:30 | 2040 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60647 United States
Get ready for a night of wild laughter with Brown Noise Comedy! 🎤 This lineup brings together South Asian, Arab, Persian, and other brown comedians who’ll have you in stitches with their hilarious takes on the quirks of growing up between cultures. From traditional parents to cultural mashups, these jokes hit home for anyone who’s ever felt caught between worlds. 🌍 It’s comedy that speaks your language, bringing all the chaos and fun of being first-gen to the stage. Don’t miss out on a night of pure, relatable fun! 😂
for more information on pricing and details, please visit the event link.

A Very Asian Holiday: A Mini AAPI Market
2024-12-14 12:00 - 2024-12-28 17:00 | Amber Agave (1310 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60622)
Celebrate the Season with “A Very Asian Holiday” Market!
Experience the rich tapestry of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) culture at this lively holiday market! Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, delicious treats, and specialty items from AAPI-owned businesses and creators. It’s more than a shopping experience—it’s a chance to connect with vibrant traditions, support local entrepreneurs, and enjoy the festive spirit of the season. Whether you’re finding the perfect gift or savoring the atmosphere, this event is a joyful celebration of community, culture, and creativity.
Dates: December 14th, 21st, and the 28th, 2024, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Amber Agave (1310 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60622)

Please visit HERE for more details.

South Asians On The Mic - Dec 2024
2024-12-14 16:00 - 18:00 | South Asia Institute (1925 South Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60616)
South Asians On The Mic
An open mic event featuring South Asian artists, which will showcase a range of talent from poetry, stand-up comedy, dance, or classical music performances.
If you plan to join as a participant, please visit THIS LINK,
or visit Chicago Asian Network’s website for more details.

Ashwin Rode and Friends in the Penthouse
2024-12-15 14:00 - 17:00 | Logan Center for the Arts (915 E 60th St Chicago, IL 60637)
Join us for an enchanting afternoon of classical music at the Logan Center for the Arts! Experience a captivating concert featuring Ashwin Rode alongside talented musicians Arun Sabapathy on tabla and Vikas Falnikar on harmonium. Set in the stunning Penthouse at the Logan Center, this intimate performance promises an unforgettable blend of artistry and ambiance. Don’t miss this special opportunity to enjoy exceptional music and immerse yourself in a delightful cultural experience!
Date: December 15, 2024, 2:00 PM
Location: Logan Center for the Arts (915 E 60th St Chicago, IL 60637)
Please visit HERE to RSVP, or visit Chicago Asian Network’s website for more details.

Brown Noise - A Kinda Brown Comedy Show 12/26
2024-12-26 19:30 - 21:00 | The Lincoln Lodge (2040 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60647)
Event Date: Thursday, December 26 · 7:30 – 9pm CST
Location: The Lincoln Lodge (2040 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago, IL 60647)
Brown Noise Comedy delivers an unforgettable night of humor featuring a dynamic lineup of South Asian, Arab, Persian, and other brown comedians. With sharp wit and outrageous stories inspired by their cultural experiences, these comedians explore the hilarity of navigating life between traditions and modernity. From the quirks of family expectations to the absurdities of cultural collisions, the humor is relatable, raw, and brilliantly funny.
If you’ve ever felt caught between two worlds, get ready to laugh at the shared chaos of first-generation life. Come for the diverse perspectives, stay for the side-splitting comedy — it’s a celebration of identity, culture, and the wild ride of blending it all together!
For inquiries, visit Chicago Asian Network‘s website for more details.

Kasam Community Coffee Hour
2025-01-18 11:00 - 17:00
Come meet the 2025 Chicago Kasam community! Grab a cup of coffee, support a local business, and get to know some amazing folks!
Check out the Chicago Kasam’s instagram page for more updates.

Can Masculinity Be Toxic? Exploring Gender Socialization in SA Communities
2025-01-24 18:30 - 21:00
Join us for an engaging and interactive event that delves into the impact of gender expectations and social influences on South Asian Americans. Together, we will explore how cultural socialization shapes perceptions and performance of gender roles, placing women and girls at the forefront of challenges like gender-based violence.
This educational experience invites participants to learn, reflect, and share insights from their unique cultural backgrounds. The program features a thought-provoking panel discussion with leading South Asian experts in gender dynamics, public health, and mental well-being. Following the panel, participants can engage in a group discussion and Q&A session, leaving with valuable takeaways to continue this vital conversation.

visit sasolidaritymovement.com for more information.

Do The Needful w/ Special Guest Lapgan at Old Town School of Folk Music
2025-02-05 19:30 - 21:30 | 4544 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL, 60625 United States
About the Band:
Chicago-based music ensemble Do The Needful brings together a vibrant mix of Hindi vocalists, Indian flute, guitar/fuzz organ, electric bass, drums, and percussion. The band reimagines classic Bollywood anthems from the 60s and 70s, infusing them with a diverse range of influences, including Indian pop, Bollywood, garage pop, surf, rockabilly, ghostly jazz, South Asian classical music, and raw blues.
With a sound deeply rooted in retro-psychedelia rock, Do The Needful creates a powerful and ever-evolving musical blend that is both forward-thinking and uniquely reflective of Chicago’s rich musical melting pot. Their latest album, Goods Carrier, is a dynamic collection of reimagined Bollywood classics that showcase their innovative approach to music.
Band Members:

Vocals: Shruti Vidya, Bindu Poroori
Bansuri / Vocals / Field Recordings: Sonny Patel
Electric Bass / Vocals: Tyler Williams
Drums / Percussion: Thomas Gaulkin
Electric Guitar / Organ / Percussion: Jamie Osborne

Special Guest: Lapgan
Chicago-based producer and DJ Lapgan is both an archivist and an artist. Known for unearthing rare and forgotten Indian and Pakistani music, Lapgan revitalizes and re-contextualizes the sounds of his ancestral home and musical predecessors with layered, rhythmic beats that traverse the Indian subcontinent. His music is an imagined history and a musical thesis—a bold refutation of British colonialism woven through a tapestry of beats. Lapgan stitches together samples of Bollywood and Lollywood soundtracks, Tamil film music, Marathi chants, and flute-heavy Bengali religious music, all while staying rooted in Chicago’s vibrant music scene. His work is a must-listen for fans of deep crate digging, meticulous arrangement, and drums that could inspire scholars.
Experience the electrifying fusion of tradition and innovation with Do The Needful and Lapgan—a celebration of timeless sounds reimagined for a new era.
For more information, please visit South Asia Institute’s website.

Book Launch: Najma Heptulla in Conversation with Madhuvanti Ghose
2025-02-08 15:00 - 17:00 | 1925 South Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60616, 1925 South Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60616, Chicago, Illinois, IL, 60616, United States
The South Asia Institute, in collaboration with the Ismaili Council for the Midwestern USA, is delighted to host the launch of Dr. Najma Heptulla’s celebrated memoir, In Pursuit of Democracy: Beyond Party Lines.
This special event will feature a conversation between the author and Dr. Madhuvanti Ghose, the Alsdorf Associate Curator at the Art Institute of Chicago. The discussion will be followed by a book signing and light refreshments, offering attendees a chance to engage with the author and explore the themes of her inspiring journey.
About the Author:
Dr. Najma Heptulla is a renowned parliamentarian, a passionate advocate for democracy, social justice, and women’s rights, and an accomplished author. With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, she served as the presiding officer of India’s Upper House of Parliament for 17 years, held the position of Minister of Minority Affairs, and was the Governor of Manipur. A skilled diplomat, Dr. Heptulla has played a pivotal role in advancing international dialogue on critical global issues, including gender equality and women’s empowerment.
She is also the grandniece of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a celebrated Islamic scholar and Indian independence activist.
About Madhuvanti Ghose:
Dr. Madhuvanti Ghose is the inaugural Alsdorf Associate Curator of Indian, Southeast Asian, and Himalayan Art at the Art Institute of Chicago. Since joining the museum in 2007, she has curated groundbreaking exhibitions and installations, including the opening of the Alsdorf Galleries in 2008, Jitish Kallat’s Public Notice 3 (2010–11), and India Modern: The Paintings of M. F. Husain (2017–18), among many others.
Pre-Purchase the Book:
The memoir is available for pre-purchase with your event ticket. Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into Dr. Heptulla’s remarkable story and insights!
For more information, please visit South Asia Institute’s website.

Drone Stories Embroidery Circle with Sabba Elahi
2025-02-22 14:00 - 16:00 | 1925 South Michigan AveChicago, IL 60616
Join artist Sabba Elahi for a unique communal embroidery project, where we will honor the names of women and children who lost their lives in US drone strikes in Pakistan. This participatory event invites you to contribute to a powerful collective artwork that reflects on themes of memory, loss, and resilience.
Sabba S. Elahi is an interdisciplinary artist and educator with roots in a Pakistani household in the Midwest. She holds an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and has been recognized with prestigious artist residencies at the Chicago Artists Coalition, Ragdale, and as a finalist for the Mother Art Prize (2020). Through her work in fibers, drawing, performance, and installation, Elahi challenges dehumanization and cultural erasure, weaving together narratives of identity, community, and power structures. Currently, she is the recipient of the Jackman Goldwasser Residency at the Hyde Park Art Center and teaches in the Philosophy & Humanities Department at Oakton College. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with her thought-provoking art and vision.
For more information, please visit South Asia Institute’s website.

South Asian Women’s Summit: Empower, Inspire, Lead
2025-03-14 08:00 - 17:00 | 930 National Pkwy, Schaumburg, IL, 60173
🌸 Celebrate International Women’s Day at the South Asian Women’s Summit! 🌸
Join us for an empowering gathering at South Asian Women’s Summit: Empower, Inspire, Lead – a space dedicated to uplifting and celebrating the strength of South Asian women!
✨ What to Expect:
🎤 Conference – Inspiring discussions with influential women leaders
🎭 Entertainment – Cultural performances & engaging activities
🤝 Networking & Resources – Connect with entrepreneurs, professionals, and changemakers
📅 Date: March 16, 2025
⏰ Time: 11 AM – 1 PM
📍 Venue: International India Hub, Schaumburg, IL
💜 Free Entry – Open to All!
Let’s celebrate, uplift, and inspire together! Tag the incredible women in your life and join us for this special event. 🌟

Women's Roundtable
2025-03-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Fifth Third Center, 611 River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018
📢 Join Us for the Women’s Roundtable – A Space for Connection & Growth!
The Economic Development Center at Chinese Mutual Aid Association is hosting the Women’s Roundtable, and SAACCIL is proud to support this important event!
This is a must-attend event for female entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to expand their network, connect with key stakeholders, and explore new opportunities.
📅 Date: March 18, 2025⏰ Time: 10 AM – 2 PM📍 Location: Fifth Third Center, 611 River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018
Attendees will have the chance to:✔️ Engage with an inspiring panel of women entrepreneurs✔️ Network with banks, government agencies, and prime contractors✔️ Learn about resources to grow your business
🔔 Reminder: Due to Fifth Third’s security protocols, all attendees (including guests) must register in advance to ensure entry.
💡 Let’s build a stronger, more connected community of women in business—register now!
#WomensRoundtable #WomenEntrepreneurs #SAACCIL #Leadership #Networking #BusinessGrowth #EconomicDevelopment #Entrepreneurship

Masala Fest 2025
2025-05-10 11:00 - 15:00
Join us on March 15th at India Hub (International Hub) for Masala Fest, a vibrant celebration of South Asian culture, food, and community! 🎉
🔥 What to Expect:
🍛 Authentic South Asian Food Vendors
🎨 Colorful Holi Celebration
🎶 Live Music & Dance Performances
🤝 Community Gathering & Festivities
📍 Location: India Hub (International Hub), Schaumburg, IL
📅 Date: May 10, 2025
Want to showcase your business? Sign up to be a vendor today!
REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/oEeHPkA6mXzCDuve7
✨ Don’t miss this unforgettable experience – bring your friends, family, and an appetite for culture and connection!
🔗 Visit SAACCIL.org for more details!

SALDEF Presents: Sikhs in Storytelling in Chicago
2025-05-11
Experience the Second Annual Sikhs in Storytelling, presented by SALDEF!Date: May 11, 2025
Join an inspiring gatheriang of Sikh community leaders, artists, creatives, and storytellers for a full day of engaging workshops, insightful panels, cultural performances, and intimate fireside conversations. This unique event is dedicated to uplifting Sikh narratives and celebrating the voices shaping the future of our community.
This year’s program will spotlight the stories and contributions of Sikh Americans from the Midwest, showcasing the remarkable talent driving visibility and representation across the arts, entertainment, and cultural spheres.
Don’t miss this celebration of storytelling, identity, and creative expression.

For more information, visit the event page here: LINK

Secretary of State Diwali Event
2025-10-31 11:30 - 12:30 | 115 South Lasalle Street, 115 South Lasalle Street, Chicago, 60603, United States

Diwali at the Field Museum
2025-11-04 17:00 - 20:00 | Field Museum, 1400 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois, 60605, United States
Get Your Ticket: https://www.fieldmuseum.org/activity/diwali-heritage-month

AI Small Biz Workshop
2025-11-05 12:00 - 13:30 | SAACCIL Office, 7331 Lincoln Ave, Suite 1, Lincolnwood, IL, 60712, United States
RSVP Here: https://bit.ly/SAACCIL_AISmallBiz

SAIRE Diwali Celebration
2025-11-13 18:00 - 21:00 | The Bell, 225 W Randolph, Chicago, 60606, United States
Get Your Ticket: https://www.joinsaire.com/event-details/saire-diwali-celebration

RISING CONNECTIONS
2026-04-28

Rising Connections
2026-04-28 10:00 - 11:00 | SAACCIL Office, 7331 Lincoln Ave, Suite 1, Lincolnwood, IL, 60712, United States

Small Business Grants Workshop
2026-04-29

Personal Finance 101
2026-04-30 10:00 - 12:00 | SAACCIL Office, 7331 Lincoln Ave, Suite 1, Lincolnwood, IL, 60712, United States

Person Finance 101 Series
2026-04-30 10:00 - 12:00
