Definition Innovator
Helping Chicago's entrepreneurs grow from a side hustle to a scalable business through creative and commerce-led education.
Building Sustainable Businesses Through Commerce & Creative Education.
Definition Theatre and 37 Oaks proudly continue their partnership to support Chicago’s small business community through Definition Innovator—a dynamic development program designed for entrepreneurs ready to grow with strategy, structure, and purpose. This unique collaboration combines Definition Theatre’s creative expertise with 37 Oaks’ commerce-driven approach to help small business owners build both their business and their leadership capacity.
Focused on serving Chicago's South and West Side entrepreneurs, this program helps business owners strengthen their operational foundation and prepare for long-term, sustainable growth. With an emphasis on infrastructure, storytelling, marketing, market insights, and strategic planning, participants gain the tools to evolve from side hustle to scalable enterprise.
The program includes 37 Oaks University courses, Definition Theatre’s creative storytelling workshop, 1:1 coaching, and pop-up markets. Upon successful completion, each entrepreneur receives a $1,000 small business stipend to support ongoing operations and implementation.
Who Should
Apply?
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Chicago-based product business
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Ready to grow from side hustle to sustainable, scalable company
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Has early traction, sales, or customer engagement
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Willing to invest time in strengthening operations, marketing, and infrastructure
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Committed to completing the program and applying insights.
Program
Includes
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12 courses
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Live webinars & on-demand
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Topics: Financials, Strategy, Marketing, Storytelling & Branding.
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1:1 coaching
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Pop-up markets
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Small business stipend