Founded in Chicago in July 2020, The Dates Group is a consulting agency dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, microbusinesses, and nonprofits to achieve long-term success. Rooted in the Triple Bottom Line philosophy—balancing people, profit, and the planet—we provide tailored solutions designed to drive social responsibility, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.
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We specialize in funding solutions through strategies and grant writing, nonprofit consultation, business and nonprofit mentoring. Our services are customized to meet the unique needs of each client, offering a wide range of support, including:
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Strategic Impact Solutions (S.I.S.): Retainer-based mentoring and strategic guidance for small businesses.
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Educational Academies: The Nonprofit Success Academy and Smart Start Academy, providing practical, results-driven training for nonprofit and business leaders.
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Funding Strategies: Comprehensive guidance to help clients become grant-ready, and secure resources including grant funding.
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With a team of experienced professionals, our commitment to innovation, equity, and excellence positions us as a trusted partner in your journey toward sustainable growth.
Whether you’re building a nonprofit, scaling a business, or seeking funding opportunities, The Dates Group equips you with the tools, knowledge, and strategies needed to succeed. Together, we’re creating meaningful impact and lasting legacies.
About Us
About
Chi Dates
Founder and Grants Project Manager
Chi Dates is a seasoned leader and strategist with over 25 years of experience helping nonprofits and small businesses build sustainable, impactful organizations. As the founder of The Dates Group, Chi blends her expertise in financial planning, nonprofit management, and small business banking to craft practical, results-driven solutions that address her clients’ unique challenges. In her capacity as Grants Project Manager for The Dates Group, she leads grant services across every phase of the lifecycle, from onboarding to submission and follow-up. She manages client relationships, oversees a team of grant writers, and ensures the delivery of high-quality, impactful results.
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Chi is a proud board member of Dress for Success Greater Chicago, supporting its mission to empower women to achieve economic independence. Her professional affiliations include membership in the Grant Professionals Association and service on the National Small Business Association’s Leadership Council.
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Through her leadership, she has supported over 120 organizations in strengthening their operations, improving funding readiness, and scaling their impact. She brings a holistic approach that integrates grant services, marketing, organizational strategy, and operational efficiency. Her guiding philosophy is rooted in sustainability—helping clients balance social, environmental, and financial priorities for lasting success.
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Why Work with Chi?
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Proven Expertise: Extensive background in financial planning, and nonprofit leadership.
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Results-Oriented Approach: Tailored solutions that deliver measurable impact.
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Comprehensive Support: From grant readiness to business mentorship, Chi ensures every step aligns with client goals.
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Community Focus: A strong advocate for women, minorities, veterans, and underserved communities.
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Chi Dates helps clients lay a solid foundation for long-term success through thoughtful strategy and actionable solutions.
About the Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Our team comes to you from all over the nation. We share a common goal of compassion for and the advancement of nonprofit organizations and small business owners. We are a fierce group of tenured women with extensive experience in our areas of expertise.
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All grant writers are certified and expert in private, corporate and federal grants.
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Contact Us
Opening Hours
Mon, Tues, Thurs
Fri and Sat
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
9:00 am - 1:00 pm