Planning and Research Completing basic research, such as market research, can save time, money and potentially alleviate future challenges through an understanding of your business and your competition. The most successful businesses will:

Find people who will be willing to pay for your product or service (there have to be enough of them to make it worth your while) – research market potential using census data and demographic databases
Understand the best methods to deliver the service or manufacture the product – research production options using business databases
Know who you compete with – research competitors using business databases
Understand whether your product is unique or proprietary – research patent filings

The Small Business Administration has launched an online tool that allows small business owners to see how their company compares to the competition. Research your competitive edge by checking out the SizeUp tool.

Review Chicago organizations below that can help with business marketing questions.

Resource Navigator

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Provider Logo	Provider Description
	51st Street Business Association Assisting businesses with planning, resource development, grant writing and educational workshops, delegate agent and liaison to the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection. Facebook Sandra Bivens 220 E. 51st Street Chicago, Il 60615 Phone: (772) 285-3401 Website \| Email
	Albany Park Community Center, Inc- Business Dept. APCC serves as a catalyst for economic growth, assures a stable atmosphere among our many ethnic businesses, provides leadership for the business community, and connects businesses to larger, citywide technical assistance programs. Twitter Facebook Jin Lee 5101 N. Kimball Ave Chicago, IL 60625 Phone: (773) 509-5657 x450 Website \| Email
	Andersonville Chamber of Commerce Andersonville Chamber of Commerce fosters a vibrant environment in which businesses can thrive by attracting a diverse customer base; provides business support services and advocacy; and engages in business attraction and economic development. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Sara Dinges 5217 N. Clark Street #3 Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (773) 728-2995 Website \| Email
	Arts & Business Council of Chicago The Arts & Business Council of Chicago’s mission is to develop leadership, the business of arts, and the art of business in Chicago. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Kristin Larsen 1 W. Monroe Chicago, IL 60603 Phone: (312) 372-1876 x101 Website \| Email
	Austin African American Business Networking Association AAABNA works with local stakeholders to help create and advocate on behalf of the Austin business community. Facebook Malcolm Crawford 5820 West Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60651 Phone: (773) 626-4497 Website \| Email
	Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council The Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council (BYNC) integrates social and economic development programs to meet the needs of residents of our neighborhood and the greater Southwest Side. Facebook Sonya Eldridge 1823 W. 47th Street 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60609 Phone: (773) 523-4416 Website \| Email
	Belmont-Central Chamber of Commerce Chamber of Commerce for the Belmont, Cragin and Portage Park community areas. Facebook REID MACKIN 5534 W. BELMONT AVE. Chicago, IL 60641 Phone: (773) 647-1644 Website \| Email
	Bethel New Life Bethel’s mission is to create opportunities for individuals and families to invest in themselves by promoting policies and systems that help communities thrive. West Side Forward> is Bethel's strategic initiative to transform Chicago's West Side by substantially reducing poverty through workforce and business development to move 63,000 people into skilled work that can sustain their families. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Roxanne Charles 4950 W. Thomas Street Chicago, IL 60651 Phone: (773) 473-7870 x139 Website \| Email
	Business Partners, The Chamber for Uptown Since 1923 Business Partners, The Chamber for Uptown has offered expert support in three key areas: networking & introductions, access to capital, and special events & promotions. The Chamber for Uptown can aid you in small business compliance and advocacy at the city and state level. Facebook LinkedIn John Blick 4753 N Broadway, Suite 822 Chicago, IL 60640 Phone: (773) 878-1184 Website \| Email
	Chicago Business Affairs & Consumer Protection BACP ensures a fair and vibrant market place for both businesses and consumers. BACP licenses businesses and public vehicles, provides business education and access to resources, enforces the Municipal Code, and protects consumers from fraud. Twitter Facebook BACP Outreach Chicago City Hall 121 N. LaSalle St. Room 805 Chicago, IL 60602 Phone: (312) 744-2086 Website \| Email
	Chicago Regional Growth Corporation Chicago Regional Growth Corporation ("CRGC") is the regional economic development organization that drives collaboration between public and private sector partners to drive inclusive economic growth and prosperity across northeastern Illinois. LinkedIn Thomas Hulseman 177 N. State Street, Suite 500 Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: (312) 589-5789 Website \| Email
	Chicago Urban League The Chicago Urban League Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation was founded in 2007 to help African- Americans launch, grow, and sustain businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Jason Johnson 4510 S. Michigan Chicago, IL 60615 Phone: (773) 451-3547 Website \| Email
	Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce The Chamber is a community of business and civic leaders working on behalf of Chicagoland businesses. Members represent a diverse cross-section of our economy, including small and emerging businesses, mid-market companies, large corporations, and multi-nationals. Twitter Facebook Stacey Pitts Caldwell 410 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: (312) 494-6790 Website \| Email
	Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network We bring industry players together, provide a forum for collaboration and support, and better connect the 4,500 companies in the industry across Chicagoland to drive innovation and growth in the region. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Alan Reed 1 W. Monroe St 4th Floor Chicago, IL 60603 Phone: (312) 525-9653 Website \| Email
	Coleman Entrepreneurship Center at DePaul University The Coleman Entrepreneurship Center empowers students, alumni and our community members to build sustainable businesses that do good and do well in Chicago. We are the hub to connect, advise and inspire entrepreneurship and innovation in creating businesses with purpose and passion. Our experiential programs, vibrant ecosystem and academic curriculum cultivate a foundation for entrepreneurial success for our entire DePaul community. Facebook LinkedIn Bruce Leech 1 East Jackson Blvd Suite 7900 Chicago, IL 60604 Phone: (312) 362-6489 Website \| Email
	Edgebrook~Sauganash Chamber of Commerce We serve, grow and advocate for businesses in the Edgebrook~Sauganash community on the far Northwest side. With Sauganash SSA #62, we provide large-scale business district management. We partner with chambers across Chicago to stay current on economic development trends and tools. Twitter Facebook Jennifer Herren Gatesman 6023 N. Cicero - ESCC Chicago, IL 60646 Phone: (773) 545-9300 Website \| Email
	Eighteenth Street Development Corporation ESDC will work with businesses to empower them to grow. It will also work to attract fast growing businesses by leveraging the community's assets: an ideal central location, rich in culture and arts, delicious food/restaurants, a close proximity to world class universities and medical district, in a Hubzone, with resources like TIF, SBIF, and Federal Empowerment programs. ESDC has served the Pilsen community on the Lower West Side of Chicago in Cook County, Illinois for over 40 years and hopes to add to its legacy. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Alex Ruiz 1843 S Carpenter St Chicago, IL 60608 Phone: (312) 733-2287 Website \| Email
	Far South Community Development Corporation The Far South Community Development Corporation (Far South CDC) is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit corporation established in 1977 to foster economic development and eradicate slum and blighted conditions in its service area. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Florence Hardy 9923 S. Halsted Street Suite D Chicago, IL 60628 Phone: (773) 941-4833 Website \| Email
	Future Founders Future Founders partners with entrepreneurs to advance their businesses in the best way possible through age- and stage-appropriate entrepreneurship programs. We don’t take equity, don’t charge for our programs, and protect new founders from the predatory nature of profit-driven service providers. Instead, we create a supportive, trustworthy rapport that encourages open and honest discussions. We also instill a sense of community and encourage our alumni to give back by mentoring the aspiring entrepreneurs we serve. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Scott Issen 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza Suit 1212 Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: (312) 350-0334 Website \| Email
	Garfield Park Chamber of Commerce We are the Chamber of Commerce in Garfield Park, a community-based organization focused on helping make the world around us a better, happier place. With the help of our tireless staff, we organize networking events, fundraisers, exciting community-building events, and in-depth training sessions for our volunteers. Facebook Siri Hibbler 4223 West Lake Street Suite 328 Chicago, IL 60624 Phone: (312) 970-9036 Website \| Email
	Garfield Park Community Council The Garfield Park Community Council is a community-building organization made up of residents and allies working together to develop leaders and create programs that build a vital Garfield Park community. Twitter Facebook Mike Tomas 300 N Central Park GPCC Chicago, IL 60624 Phone: (773) 948-8989 x100 Website \| Email
	Greater Chatham Initiative Our mission is to strategically invest in the Chicago Communities of Chatham, Greater Grand Crossing, Avalon Park, and Auburn Gresham, so that they can re-emerge as communities of opportunities and choice. Nedra Fears 7822 S. Dobson Avenue Lower Level Chicagi, Il 60619 Phone: (773) 644-1451 Website \| Email
	Greater Englewood Chamber of Commerce The mission of the Greater Englewood Chamber of Commerce is To transform Greater Englewood into a popular commercial and retail destination by (a)dvising, (d)eveloping and (s)howcasing its established businesses and acting as a comprehensive economic development partner while creating a favorable social environment for chamber members. Facebook LinkedIn Felicia Slaton-Young 815 W. 63rd St. 2nd Fl Chicago, Il 60621 Phone: (312) 880-9674 Website \| Email
	Greater Roseland Chamber of Commerce Greater Roseland Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) provides economic programs designed to educate aspiring entrepreneurs and existing businesses through economic programs designed to strengthen and enhance financial opportunities to grow their businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Andrea Reed 1000 E 111th St Chicago, IL 60628 Phone: (773) 785-40007737854000 Website \| Email
	Greater Southwest Development Corporation Greater Southwest Development Corporation is a business resource center on the southwest side of Chicago, with local and regional expertise to support the launch and/or development of your business, regardless of industry. Twitter Facebook Christine James 2601 W. 63rd Street Chicago, IL 60629 Phone: (773) 362-3373 Website \| Email
	Illinois Chapter of National Organization of Minority Architects The Illinois Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects creates a platform of inclusion and growth to support all minority designers; as defined by ethnicity, gender, religion and sexual orientation. Our programming stems from three initiatives, Project Pipeline, Minority Leadership & Professional Development and the 2018 NOMA National Conference which we are honored to host. Twitter Facebook Smitha Vasan 4051 S. Michigan Ave. Apt 2N Chicago, IL 60653 Phone: (786) 326-6100 Website \| Email
	Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) IHCC’s mission is to cultivate knowledge, connections and collaboration to effect transformational social change and achieve sustainable economic impact through entrepreneurship. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Liana Bran 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 1212 c/o 1871 Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: (312) 425-9500 Website \| Email
	Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) The Illinois SBDC provides relevant information, confidential business guidance and timely business training to pre-venture and existing small businesses through a statewide network of 32 Illinois SBDC locations. Go to www.ilsbdc.biz for info. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Mark Petrilli 500 East Monroe Springfield, IL 62701 Phone: (800) 252-2923 Website \| Email
	Illinois Technology Assocation The Illinois Technology Association (ITA) scales Illinois tech companies. With innovative resources that allow members to collaborate, build their talent networks and elevate their local and national presence, ITA is the region’s strongest advocate for fostering innovation and growth. Founded in 2005 and supporting 500-plus growth-stage tech companies, ITA has a rich history of driving business forward. Twitter LinkedIn Julia Kanouse 20 N Upper Wacker Dr. Floor 12 Chicago, IL 60606 Phone: (312) 924-1443 Website \| Email
	Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago The Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago's Make City incubator is one of the largest and oldest incubators in the country. Built in the 1890s, at 416,000 square feet, the incubator is unique in its manufacturing focus. ICNC provides growing companies in a wide variety of industries affordable space, business assistance, and an entrepreneurial community that they can both benefit from and contribute to. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Merly Thomas 320 N. Damen Avenue Chicago, IL 60012 Phone: (312) 433-2373 Website \| Email
	Lakeview Chamber of Commerce The Lakeview Chamber of Commerce is a community of businesses working together to create a stronger neighborhood and business environment, through advocacy, promotion, networking and education. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Lee Crandell 1409 W Addison Chicago, IL 60613 Phone: (773) 472-7171 Website \| Email
	Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce is a broad community based organization designed to represent and help merchants and other business people in the community. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Maureen Martino 3138 N. Broadway Chicago, IL 60657 Phone: (773) 348-8608 x105 Website \| Email
	Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1948, the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce (LSRCC) is a not-for-profit association of businesses, institutions, and professionals in Chicago’s Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods. The LSRCC supports local business with a variety of community events, educational workshops, consumer incentive programs, and more. Twitter Facebook Ryan Warsing 2611 W Lawrence Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 Phone: (773) 728-3890 Website \| Email
	Loyola University Chicago - Business Leadership Hub Harness the Insights of Loyola University Chicago: The Loyola Business Leadership Hub is your gateway to the best of academic thought and practical solutions. The hub cuts across disciplines to find the answers and connections you need to accelerate your business, while our specialized centers bring a deep understanding of your organization and its unique challenges. Carolyn Ogrey 16 E Pearson St Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: (312) 915-6614 Website \| Email
	MBDA Business Center Chicago MBDA Business Center is funded by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce/Minority Business Development Agency and operated by the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council. We help MBE business grow through education,advocacy, and access to capital and procurement opportunities. David Thomas 105 W. Adams Street Suite 2300 Chicago, IL 60603 Phone: (312) 755-2563 Website \| Email
	mHUB mHUB is an innovation center. Our goal is help entrepreneurs and startups turn their ideas into prototypes, prototypes in products, and eventually turn those products into sustainable businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Manas Mehandru 965 W Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60642 Phone: (312) 248-8701 Website \| Email
	Mid South Business Association & Resource Center MSBARC will take responsibility for developing our economy and businesses, promoting the assets of our community, and attracting investment. We will develop strategies and goals, and support and enlist the assistance of, elected officials to secure external resources, tools, and relationships that will help us achieve these goals. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Phillip Beckham 3720 S Dearborn Suite 205 Chicago, IL 60609 Phone: (773) 893-0052 Website \| Email
	Morgan Park Beverly Hills Business Association The Morgan Park Beverly Hills Business Association is a non-profit organization that advocates for, promotes, connects and educates the businesses of Beverly/Morgan Park to help strengthen the economic foundation of the community. Twitter Facebook Caroline Connors 10827 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60643 Phone: (773) 779-2530 Website \| Email
	Ms.Tech Ms.Tech is a social impact focused, membership organization with a learning community that provides women in technology ventures and innovative companies the inspiration, knowledge and connections to reach their full potential. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Nicole Yeary 318 W Adams St Fl 16 Chicago, IL 60606 Phone: (773) 809-4681 Website \| Email
	Near South Planning Board The mission of Near South Planning Board –Catalyst For Growth – is to plan, guide and encourage a program of development for the near south area while creating, supporting and promoting a thriving business district. Twitter Facebook Bonita Sanchez-Carlson 2600 S. Michigan Ave., LL-C Chicago, IL 60616 Phone: (312) 987-1980 Website \| Email
	North River Commission North River Commission is the nonprofit community and economic development corporation for the northwest side of Chicago, from the Chicago River to Cicero and Addison to Devon. Founded in 1962 by concerned residents and neighborhood institutions, NRC unites over 100 civic associations, businesses, schools, institutions and places of worship to improve the quality of life in our community by creating affordable housing, quality education, arts & cultural endeavors, open spaces, and thriving neighborhood businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Thomas Applegate 3403 W Lawrence Ave Ste 201 Chicago, IL 60625 Phone: (312) 860-6121 Website \| Email
	Polish American Chamber of Commerce POLISH AMERICAN CHAMBER STANDS BESIDE IMMIGRANT ENTREPRENEURS AND ALSO BESIDE BUSINESSES CROSSING THE ATLANTIC -- IN BOTH DIRECTIONS The Chicago-based Polish American Chamber of Commerce is the largest not-for-profit organization in the United States dedicated to fostering the interests of Polish American and Polish-owned businesses, business owners and professionals on a local, national and international level. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Bogdan Pukszta 5214 W. Lawrence Ave., Suite 1 Chicago, IL 60630 Phone: (773) 205-1998 Website \| Email
	Pulaski Elston Business Association (PEBA) We are a local not for profit organization that provides business assistance and marketing to businesses located in the Independence Park, West Walker and Mayfair communities. Facebook Amie Zander 4000 W. Montrose Chicago, IL 60641 Phone: (331) 248-7127 Website \| Email
	Quad Communities Development Corporation Quad Communities Development Corporation (QCDC) promotes and celebrates commerce in Bronzeville by support, attracting and partnering with the local business community to grow and strengthen our eco-system. QCDC host business educational, networking and resource events, area-wide marketing campaigns, and provides one-on-one specialized support. Twitter Facebook Rhonda McFarland 4210 South Berkeley Avenue Chicago, IL 60653-3012 Phone: (773) 268-7232 Website \| Email
	Rogers Park Business Alliance Rogers Park Business Alliance is a nonprofit economic development organization that provides expert technical assistance, entrepreneurial training and access to capital for businesses. We partner with community organizations, city agencies and residents to cultivate inclusive economic growth. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Sandi Price 1448 W. Morse Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (773) 508-5885 Website \| Email
	Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce The Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce represents business in Rogers Park. We are volunteers who devote our time to preserving great local businesses and boosting Rogers Park business. MISSION STATEMENT: To provide leadership and representation in order to benefit the members operating businesses in the Rogers Park community. VISION STATEMENT: To guide businesses, service organizations, institutions, and individuals to establish new businesses and promote existing businesses within the Rogers Park community. To create and stimulate an orderly economic growth, thereby enriching Rogers Park's diverse community. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Bill Morton 6902 North Glenwood Avenue Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (773) 850-0049 Website \| Email
	Six Corners Association Six Corners Association is a 501(c)6 non-profit economic development organization located on Chicago's northwest side that fosters the development of a thriving commercial district by mentoring and connecting community-minded businesses, attracting customers, and engaging intentional planning for the district's future. Facebook Kelli Wefenstette 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. 301 Chicago, IL 60641 Phone: (773) 685-9300 Website \| Email
	South Shore Chamber of Commerce The South Shore Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that supports local businesses by offering technical assistance, business development and training, networking opportunities as well as access to public and private sector resources. Facebook Tonya Trice 1750 E. 71st Street Chicago, IL 60649 Phone: (773) 955-9508 Website \| Email
	Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce enriches small business by providing tools and resources that feed growth through informative programs and engaging events. Twitter Facebook Frankye A. Payne 8334 South Stony Island Avenue Chicago, IL 60617 Phone: (773) 734-0626 Website \| Email
	Sunshine Enterprises Sunshine Enterprises’ mission is to empower local entrepreneurs in under-resourced communities to grow their business and transform their communities. We strategically partner with individuals in the community who are operating or seeking to start a business. Facebook LinkedIn Ryan Pederson 503 E. 61st St Chicago, IL 60637 Phone: (312) 868-0040 x6 Website \| Email
	The Gray Matter Experience The Gray Matter Experience is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that teaches minority youth about entrepreneurship and helps them launch socially conscious businesses (essentially: a business incubator for teens). In addition to programming, they serve as investor for teen companies that launch from the program and currently have 5 companies under their belt that they're helping to grow. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Britney Robbins 1011 W. 19th St. #3R Chicago, Illinois 60608 Phone: (217) 721-2021 Website \| Email
	UIC Entrepreneurial Support Program The Entrepreneurial Support Program helps new and established business owners start, scale and succeed! We work with you to find and access the tools and resources necessary. We work with both Chicagoland entrepreneurs, and the UIC community. Steve Bob 815 W Van Buren St, Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60123 Phone: (312) 413-3278 Website \| Email
	University CoWork University CoWork provides a convenient, fun, affordable, & productive work space for entrepreneurs. Located in Woodlawn / Hyde Park, we offer downtown-quality amenities (+ free coffee), beautiful office / coworking / event space, a supportive and talented community, and the expertise to help you reach your goals! Twitter Facebook LinkedIn David Lubin 6127 South University Avenue Chicago, IL 60637 Phone: (773) 800-9751 Website \| Email
	University of Chicago Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation At the Polsky Exchange, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation provides significant resources and programming for community entrepreneurs, as part of the University of Chicago’s commitment to supporting strong, vibrant communities in the neighborhoods surrounding its South Side campus. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn EJ Reedy 1452 E. %3rd St 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60615 Phone: (777) 702-2076 Website \| Email
	Washington Park Chamber of Commerce The mission of the Washington Park Chamber of Commerce, NFP (WPCC) is to create and sustain economic opportunities in the Washington Park community that improves the quality of life for all of its residents, businesses, and institutions through advocacy, initiatives, and partnerships for community and economic development. Donna Hampton-Smith 331 E. 56th Street Unit D Chicago, IL 60637 Phone: (773) 955-0199 Website \| Email
	West Central Association, Inc. The West Central Association (WCA) Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1918 to promote business and support the community in the geographic areas west of downtown (from Wells to Kedzie and from Grand Avenue to 16th Street). Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Roderick Burch 406 North Aberdeen Street Chicago, IL 60642 Phone: (312) 902-4922 Website \| Email
	West Ridge Chamber of Commerce We are an association representing the interests of the business community in Chicago's West Ridge neighborhood. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Edin Seferovic 6445 N. Western Ave., Suite 304 Chicago, IL 60645 Phone: (773) 743-6022 Website \| Email
	Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce The WPB Chamber strives to develop innovative ways to increase commerce among our Members through a variety of Member Benefits. In addition to being a Member of the National Concierge Association and a City recognized Delegate Agency, the Chamber recommends various business assistance resources and programs available to serve local businesses and strengthen the vitality of Wicker Park Bucktown as a whole. Twitter Facebook Pamela Maass 1414 N Ashland Chicago, il 60622 Phone: (773) 384-2672 x213 Website \| Email

Return to Business Growth Guide

Provider Logo	Provider Description
	51st Street Business Association Assisting businesses with planning, resource development, grant writing and educational workshops, delegate agent and liaison to the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection. Facebook Sandra Bivens 220 E. 51st Street Chicago, Il 60615 Phone: (772) 285-3401 Website \| Email
	Albany Park Community Center, Inc- Business Dept. APCC serves as a catalyst for economic growth, assures a stable atmosphere among our many ethnic businesses, provides leadership for the business community, and connects businesses to larger, citywide technical assistance programs. Twitter Facebook Jin Lee 5101 N. Kimball Ave Chicago, IL 60625 Phone: (773) 509-5657 x450 Website \| Email
	Andersonville Chamber of Commerce Andersonville Chamber of Commerce fosters a vibrant environment in which businesses can thrive by attracting a diverse customer base; provides business support services and advocacy; and engages in business attraction and economic development. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Sara Dinges 5217 N. Clark Street #3 Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (773) 728-2995 Website \| Email
	Arts & Business Council of Chicago The Arts & Business Council of Chicago’s mission is to develop leadership, the business of arts, and the art of business in Chicago. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Kristin Larsen 1 W. Monroe Chicago, IL 60603 Phone: (312) 372-1876 x101 Website \| Email
	Austin African American Business Networking Association AAABNA works with local stakeholders to help create and advocate on behalf of the Austin business community. Facebook Malcolm Crawford 5820 West Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60651 Phone: (773) 626-4497 Website \| Email
	Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council The Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council (BYNC) integrates social and economic development programs to meet the needs of residents of our neighborhood and the greater Southwest Side. Facebook Sonya Eldridge 1823 W. 47th Street 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60609 Phone: (773) 523-4416 Website \| Email
	Belmont-Central Chamber of Commerce Chamber of Commerce for the Belmont, Cragin and Portage Park community areas. Facebook REID MACKIN 5534 W. BELMONT AVE. Chicago, IL 60641 Phone: (773) 647-1644 Website \| Email
	Bethel New Life Bethel’s mission is to create opportunities for individuals and families to invest in themselves by promoting policies and systems that help communities thrive. West Side Forward> is Bethel's strategic initiative to transform Chicago's West Side by substantially reducing poverty through workforce and business development to move 63,000 people into skilled work that can sustain their families. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Roxanne Charles 4950 W. Thomas Street Chicago, IL 60651 Phone: (773) 473-7870 x139 Website \| Email
	Business Partners, The Chamber for Uptown Since 1923 Business Partners, The Chamber for Uptown has offered expert support in three key areas: networking & introductions, access to capital, and special events & promotions. The Chamber for Uptown can aid you in small business compliance and advocacy at the city and state level. Facebook LinkedIn John Blick 4753 N Broadway, Suite 822 Chicago, IL 60640 Phone: (773) 878-1184 Website \| Email
	Chicago Business Affairs & Consumer Protection BACP ensures a fair and vibrant market place for both businesses and consumers. BACP licenses businesses and public vehicles, provides business education and access to resources, enforces the Municipal Code, and protects consumers from fraud. Twitter Facebook BACP Outreach Chicago City Hall 121 N. LaSalle St. Room 805 Chicago, IL 60602 Phone: (312) 744-2086 Website \| Email
	Chicago Regional Growth Corporation Chicago Regional Growth Corporation ("CRGC") is the regional economic development organization that drives collaboration between public and private sector partners to drive inclusive economic growth and prosperity across northeastern Illinois. LinkedIn Thomas Hulseman 177 N. State Street, Suite 500 Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: (312) 589-5789 Website \| Email
	Chicago Urban League The Chicago Urban League Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation was founded in 2007 to help African- Americans launch, grow, and sustain businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Jason Johnson 4510 S. Michigan Chicago, IL 60615 Phone: (773) 451-3547 Website \| Email
	Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce The Chamber is a community of business and civic leaders working on behalf of Chicagoland businesses. Members represent a diverse cross-section of our economy, including small and emerging businesses, mid-market companies, large corporations, and multi-nationals. Twitter Facebook Stacey Pitts Caldwell 410 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: (312) 494-6790 Website \| Email
	Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network We bring industry players together, provide a forum for collaboration and support, and better connect the 4,500 companies in the industry across Chicagoland to drive innovation and growth in the region. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Alan Reed 1 W. Monroe St 4th Floor Chicago, IL 60603 Phone: (312) 525-9653 Website \| Email
	Coleman Entrepreneurship Center at DePaul University The Coleman Entrepreneurship Center empowers students, alumni and our community members to build sustainable businesses that do good and do well in Chicago. We are the hub to connect, advise and inspire entrepreneurship and innovation in creating businesses with purpose and passion. Our experiential programs, vibrant ecosystem and academic curriculum cultivate a foundation for entrepreneurial success for our entire DePaul community. Facebook LinkedIn Bruce Leech 1 East Jackson Blvd Suite 7900 Chicago, IL 60604 Phone: (312) 362-6489 Website \| Email
	Edgebrook~Sauganash Chamber of Commerce We serve, grow and advocate for businesses in the Edgebrook~Sauganash community on the far Northwest side. With Sauganash SSA #62, we provide large-scale business district management. We partner with chambers across Chicago to stay current on economic development trends and tools. Twitter Facebook Jennifer Herren Gatesman 6023 N. Cicero - ESCC Chicago, IL 60646 Phone: (773) 545-9300 Website \| Email
	Eighteenth Street Development Corporation ESDC will work with businesses to empower them to grow. It will also work to attract fast growing businesses by leveraging the community's assets: an ideal central location, rich in culture and arts, delicious food/restaurants, a close proximity to world class universities and medical district, in a Hubzone, with resources like TIF, SBIF, and Federal Empowerment programs. ESDC has served the Pilsen community on the Lower West Side of Chicago in Cook County, Illinois for over 40 years and hopes to add to its legacy. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Alex Ruiz 1843 S Carpenter St Chicago, IL 60608 Phone: (312) 733-2287 Website \| Email
	Far South Community Development Corporation The Far South Community Development Corporation (Far South CDC) is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit corporation established in 1977 to foster economic development and eradicate slum and blighted conditions in its service area. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Florence Hardy 9923 S. Halsted Street Suite D Chicago, IL 60628 Phone: (773) 941-4833 Website \| Email
	Future Founders Future Founders partners with entrepreneurs to advance their businesses in the best way possible through age- and stage-appropriate entrepreneurship programs. We don’t take equity, don’t charge for our programs, and protect new founders from the predatory nature of profit-driven service providers. Instead, we create a supportive, trustworthy rapport that encourages open and honest discussions. We also instill a sense of community and encourage our alumni to give back by mentoring the aspiring entrepreneurs we serve. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Scott Issen 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza Suit 1212 Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: (312) 350-0334 Website \| Email
	Garfield Park Chamber of Commerce We are the Chamber of Commerce in Garfield Park, a community-based organization focused on helping make the world around us a better, happier place. With the help of our tireless staff, we organize networking events, fundraisers, exciting community-building events, and in-depth training sessions for our volunteers. Facebook Siri Hibbler 4223 West Lake Street Suite 328 Chicago, IL 60624 Phone: (312) 970-9036 Website \| Email
	Garfield Park Community Council The Garfield Park Community Council is a community-building organization made up of residents and allies working together to develop leaders and create programs that build a vital Garfield Park community. Twitter Facebook Mike Tomas 300 N Central Park GPCC Chicago, IL 60624 Phone: (773) 948-8989 x100 Website \| Email
	Greater Chatham Initiative Our mission is to strategically invest in the Chicago Communities of Chatham, Greater Grand Crossing, Avalon Park, and Auburn Gresham, so that they can re-emerge as communities of opportunities and choice. Nedra Fears 7822 S. Dobson Avenue Lower Level Chicagi, Il 60619 Phone: (773) 644-1451 Website \| Email
	Greater Englewood Chamber of Commerce The mission of the Greater Englewood Chamber of Commerce is To transform Greater Englewood into a popular commercial and retail destination by (a)dvising, (d)eveloping and (s)howcasing its established businesses and acting as a comprehensive economic development partner while creating a favorable social environment for chamber members. Facebook LinkedIn Felicia Slaton-Young 815 W. 63rd St. 2nd Fl Chicago, Il 60621 Phone: (312) 880-9674 Website \| Email
	Greater Roseland Chamber of Commerce Greater Roseland Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) provides economic programs designed to educate aspiring entrepreneurs and existing businesses through economic programs designed to strengthen and enhance financial opportunities to grow their businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Andrea Reed 1000 E 111th St Chicago, IL 60628 Phone: (773) 785-40007737854000 Website \| Email
	Greater Southwest Development Corporation Greater Southwest Development Corporation is a business resource center on the southwest side of Chicago, with local and regional expertise to support the launch and/or development of your business, regardless of industry. Twitter Facebook Christine James 2601 W. 63rd Street Chicago, IL 60629 Phone: (773) 362-3373 Website \| Email
	Illinois Chapter of National Organization of Minority Architects The Illinois Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects creates a platform of inclusion and growth to support all minority designers; as defined by ethnicity, gender, religion and sexual orientation. Our programming stems from three initiatives, Project Pipeline, Minority Leadership & Professional Development and the 2018 NOMA National Conference which we are honored to host. Twitter Facebook Smitha Vasan 4051 S. Michigan Ave. Apt 2N Chicago, IL 60653 Phone: (786) 326-6100 Website \| Email
	Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC) IHCC’s mission is to cultivate knowledge, connections and collaboration to effect transformational social change and achieve sustainable economic impact through entrepreneurship. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Liana Bran 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 1212 c/o 1871 Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: (312) 425-9500 Website \| Email
	Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) The Illinois SBDC provides relevant information, confidential business guidance and timely business training to pre-venture and existing small businesses through a statewide network of 32 Illinois SBDC locations. Go to www.ilsbdc.biz for info. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Mark Petrilli 500 East Monroe Springfield, IL 62701 Phone: (800) 252-2923 Website \| Email
	Illinois Technology Assocation The Illinois Technology Association (ITA) scales Illinois tech companies. With innovative resources that allow members to collaborate, build their talent networks and elevate their local and national presence, ITA is the region’s strongest advocate for fostering innovation and growth. Founded in 2005 and supporting 500-plus growth-stage tech companies, ITA has a rich history of driving business forward. Twitter LinkedIn Julia Kanouse 20 N Upper Wacker Dr. Floor 12 Chicago, IL 60606 Phone: (312) 924-1443 Website \| Email
	Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago The Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago's Make City incubator is one of the largest and oldest incubators in the country. Built in the 1890s, at 416,000 square feet, the incubator is unique in its manufacturing focus. ICNC provides growing companies in a wide variety of industries affordable space, business assistance, and an entrepreneurial community that they can both benefit from and contribute to. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Merly Thomas 320 N. Damen Avenue Chicago, IL 60012 Phone: (312) 433-2373 Website \| Email
	Lakeview Chamber of Commerce The Lakeview Chamber of Commerce is a community of businesses working together to create a stronger neighborhood and business environment, through advocacy, promotion, networking and education. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Lee Crandell 1409 W Addison Chicago, IL 60613 Phone: (773) 472-7171 Website \| Email
	Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce is a broad community based organization designed to represent and help merchants and other business people in the community. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Maureen Martino 3138 N. Broadway Chicago, IL 60657 Phone: (773) 348-8608 x105 Website \| Email
	Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1948, the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce (LSRCC) is a not-for-profit association of businesses, institutions, and professionals in Chicago’s Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods. The LSRCC supports local business with a variety of community events, educational workshops, consumer incentive programs, and more. Twitter Facebook Ryan Warsing 2611 W Lawrence Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 Phone: (773) 728-3890 Website \| Email
	Loyola University Chicago - Business Leadership Hub Harness the Insights of Loyola University Chicago: The Loyola Business Leadership Hub is your gateway to the best of academic thought and practical solutions. The hub cuts across disciplines to find the answers and connections you need to accelerate your business, while our specialized centers bring a deep understanding of your organization and its unique challenges. Carolyn Ogrey 16 E Pearson St Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: (312) 915-6614 Website \| Email
	MBDA Business Center Chicago MBDA Business Center is funded by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce/Minority Business Development Agency and operated by the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council. We help MBE business grow through education,advocacy, and access to capital and procurement opportunities. David Thomas 105 W. Adams Street Suite 2300 Chicago, IL 60603 Phone: (312) 755-2563 Website \| Email
	mHUB mHUB is an innovation center. Our goal is help entrepreneurs and startups turn their ideas into prototypes, prototypes in products, and eventually turn those products into sustainable businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Manas Mehandru 965 W Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60642 Phone: (312) 248-8701 Website \| Email
	Mid South Business Association & Resource Center MSBARC will take responsibility for developing our economy and businesses, promoting the assets of our community, and attracting investment. We will develop strategies and goals, and support and enlist the assistance of, elected officials to secure external resources, tools, and relationships that will help us achieve these goals. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Phillip Beckham 3720 S Dearborn Suite 205 Chicago, IL 60609 Phone: (773) 893-0052 Website \| Email
	Morgan Park Beverly Hills Business Association The Morgan Park Beverly Hills Business Association is a non-profit organization that advocates for, promotes, connects and educates the businesses of Beverly/Morgan Park to help strengthen the economic foundation of the community. Twitter Facebook Caroline Connors 10827 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60643 Phone: (773) 779-2530 Website \| Email
	Ms.Tech Ms.Tech is a social impact focused, membership organization with a learning community that provides women in technology ventures and innovative companies the inspiration, knowledge and connections to reach their full potential. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Nicole Yeary 318 W Adams St Fl 16 Chicago, IL 60606 Phone: (773) 809-4681 Website \| Email
	Near South Planning Board The mission of Near South Planning Board –Catalyst For Growth – is to plan, guide and encourage a program of development for the near south area while creating, supporting and promoting a thriving business district. Twitter Facebook Bonita Sanchez-Carlson 2600 S. Michigan Ave., LL-C Chicago, IL 60616 Phone: (312) 987-1980 Website \| Email
	North River Commission North River Commission is the nonprofit community and economic development corporation for the northwest side of Chicago, from the Chicago River to Cicero and Addison to Devon. Founded in 1962 by concerned residents and neighborhood institutions, NRC unites over 100 civic associations, businesses, schools, institutions and places of worship to improve the quality of life in our community by creating affordable housing, quality education, arts & cultural endeavors, open spaces, and thriving neighborhood businesses. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Thomas Applegate 3403 W Lawrence Ave Ste 201 Chicago, IL 60625 Phone: (312) 860-6121 Website \| Email
	Polish American Chamber of Commerce POLISH AMERICAN CHAMBER STANDS BESIDE IMMIGRANT ENTREPRENEURS AND ALSO BESIDE BUSINESSES CROSSING THE ATLANTIC -- IN BOTH DIRECTIONS The Chicago-based Polish American Chamber of Commerce is the largest not-for-profit organization in the United States dedicated to fostering the interests of Polish American and Polish-owned businesses, business owners and professionals on a local, national and international level. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Bogdan Pukszta 5214 W. Lawrence Ave., Suite 1 Chicago, IL 60630 Phone: (773) 205-1998 Website \| Email
	Pulaski Elston Business Association (PEBA) We are a local not for profit organization that provides business assistance and marketing to businesses located in the Independence Park, West Walker and Mayfair communities. Facebook Amie Zander 4000 W. Montrose Chicago, IL 60641 Phone: (331) 248-7127 Website \| Email
	Quad Communities Development Corporation Quad Communities Development Corporation (QCDC) promotes and celebrates commerce in Bronzeville by support, attracting and partnering with the local business community to grow and strengthen our eco-system. QCDC host business educational, networking and resource events, area-wide marketing campaigns, and provides one-on-one specialized support. Twitter Facebook Rhonda McFarland 4210 South Berkeley Avenue Chicago, IL 60653-3012 Phone: (773) 268-7232 Website \| Email
	Rogers Park Business Alliance Rogers Park Business Alliance is a nonprofit economic development organization that provides expert technical assistance, entrepreneurial training and access to capital for businesses. We partner with community organizations, city agencies and residents to cultivate inclusive economic growth. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Sandi Price 1448 W. Morse Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (773) 508-5885 Website \| Email
	Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce The Rogers Park Chamber of Commerce represents business in Rogers Park. We are volunteers who devote our time to preserving great local businesses and boosting Rogers Park business. MISSION STATEMENT: To provide leadership and representation in order to benefit the members operating businesses in the Rogers Park community. VISION STATEMENT: To guide businesses, service organizations, institutions, and individuals to establish new businesses and promote existing businesses within the Rogers Park community. To create and stimulate an orderly economic growth, thereby enriching Rogers Park's diverse community. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Bill Morton 6902 North Glenwood Avenue Chicago, IL 60626 Phone: (773) 850-0049 Website \| Email
	Six Corners Association Six Corners Association is a 501(c)6 non-profit economic development organization located on Chicago's northwest side that fosters the development of a thriving commercial district by mentoring and connecting community-minded businesses, attracting customers, and engaging intentional planning for the district's future. Facebook Kelli Wefenstette 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. 301 Chicago, IL 60641 Phone: (773) 685-9300 Website \| Email
	South Shore Chamber of Commerce The South Shore Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that supports local businesses by offering technical assistance, business development and training, networking opportunities as well as access to public and private sector resources. Facebook Tonya Trice 1750 E. 71st Street Chicago, IL 60649 Phone: (773) 955-9508 Website \| Email
	Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce enriches small business by providing tools and resources that feed growth through informative programs and engaging events. Twitter Facebook Frankye A. Payne 8334 South Stony Island Avenue Chicago, IL 60617 Phone: (773) 734-0626 Website \| Email
	Sunshine Enterprises Sunshine Enterprises’ mission is to empower local entrepreneurs in under-resourced communities to grow their business and transform their communities. We strategically partner with individuals in the community who are operating or seeking to start a business. Facebook LinkedIn Ryan Pederson 503 E. 61st St Chicago, IL 60637 Phone: (312) 868-0040 x6 Website \| Email
	The Gray Matter Experience The Gray Matter Experience is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that teaches minority youth about entrepreneurship and helps them launch socially conscious businesses (essentially: a business incubator for teens). In addition to programming, they serve as investor for teen companies that launch from the program and currently have 5 companies under their belt that they're helping to grow. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Britney Robbins 1011 W. 19th St. #3R Chicago, Illinois 60608 Phone: (217) 721-2021 Website \| Email
	UIC Entrepreneurial Support Program The Entrepreneurial Support Program helps new and established business owners start, scale and succeed! We work with you to find and access the tools and resources necessary. We work with both Chicagoland entrepreneurs, and the UIC community. Steve Bob 815 W Van Buren St, Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60123 Phone: (312) 413-3278 Website \| Email
	University CoWork University CoWork provides a convenient, fun, affordable, & productive work space for entrepreneurs. Located in Woodlawn / Hyde Park, we offer downtown-quality amenities (+ free coffee), beautiful office / coworking / event space, a supportive and talented community, and the expertise to help you reach your goals! Twitter Facebook LinkedIn David Lubin 6127 South University Avenue Chicago, IL 60637 Phone: (773) 800-9751 Website \| Email
	University of Chicago Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation At the Polsky Exchange, the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation provides significant resources and programming for community entrepreneurs, as part of the University of Chicago’s commitment to supporting strong, vibrant communities in the neighborhoods surrounding its South Side campus. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn EJ Reedy 1452 E. %3rd St 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60615 Phone: (777) 702-2076 Website \| Email
	Washington Park Chamber of Commerce The mission of the Washington Park Chamber of Commerce, NFP (WPCC) is to create and sustain economic opportunities in the Washington Park community that improves the quality of life for all of its residents, businesses, and institutions through advocacy, initiatives, and partnerships for community and economic development. Donna Hampton-Smith 331 E. 56th Street Unit D Chicago, IL 60637 Phone: (773) 955-0199 Website \| Email
	West Central Association, Inc. The West Central Association (WCA) Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1918 to promote business and support the community in the geographic areas west of downtown (from Wells to Kedzie and from Grand Avenue to 16th Street). Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Roderick Burch 406 North Aberdeen Street Chicago, IL 60642 Phone: (312) 902-4922 Website \| Email
	West Ridge Chamber of Commerce We are an association representing the interests of the business community in Chicago's West Ridge neighborhood. Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Edin Seferovic 6445 N. Western Ave., Suite 304 Chicago, IL 60645 Phone: (773) 743-6022 Website \| Email
	Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce The WPB Chamber strives to develop innovative ways to increase commerce among our Members through a variety of Member Benefits. In addition to being a Member of the National Concierge Association and a City recognized Delegate Agency, the Chamber recommends various business assistance resources and programs available to serve local businesses and strengthen the vitality of Wicker Park Bucktown as a whole. Twitter Facebook Pamela Maass 1414 N Ashland Chicago, il 60622 Phone: (773) 384-2672 x213 Website \| Email

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