Building on the success of its previous cohorts, the Golub Capital Social Impact Lab announced the selection of eight new nonprofit leadership teams participating in the third cohort of IGNITE. The nine-month program is designed to support organizations serving Chicago’s Black community, equipping nonprofit leaders with the tools and resources needed to strengthen their individual and collective impact.
Hosted by the Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, IGNITE offers consulting assistance, networking opportunities, monthly executive coaching, peer mentorship, and financial stipends to support capacity-building work.
“Our third cohort includes eight remarkable nonprofit organizations that are deeply committed to uplifting Chicago’s Black community,” said Tyeise Huntley, director of the Golub Capital Lab at Chicago Booth’s Rustandy Center. “The enthusiasm that our city’s leaders bring to the program is inspiring, and we’re looking forward to seeing how they apply what they have learned to drive meaningful change in their communities.”
Since 2023, IGNITE has supported more than 45 participants from 15 organizations with world-class business education. The program provides classroom sessions led by faculty from Booth and the University of Chicago as well as nonprofit practitioners who focus on strategy, decision-making, and resource management. Through its curriculum, the program fosters collaboration among participants, creating a space for leaders to share challenges, exchange lessons, and apply their knowledge to better advocate for their communities.
Established with a significant five-year commitment from Golub Capital, IGNITE is the signature offering of the Golub Capital Lab at Booth’s Rustandy Center. The program was developed in partnership with Golub Capital, Booth, and the Chicago Urban League, offering tailored resources to the leaders of nonprofits serving the Black community in Chicago to strengthen and scale the impact of their organizations.
“The support from Golub Capital and the partnership they formed with Booth and the Chicago Urban League continues to be a critical part of building capacity in nonprofits serving the Black community of Chicago,” said Golub Capital Lab faculty director George Wu. “IGNITE has validated that a program like this is necessary to the community and that it can be successful in terms of amplifying the impact of nonprofits who are already doing great things.”
This year’s cohort includes organizations focused on career and community development, social services, and arts and culture. The program kicks off in January and ends in September. Applications for the 2025-26 cohort will open in the fall of 2025.
To learn more about the program and how to apply visit IGNITE. To learn more about all eight nonprofits to join this year's cohort, read the full Rustandy story here.