Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Celebrate National Small Business Week
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) have announced the celebration of National Small Business Week (NSBW) from May 4th to May 9th. This week-long event aims to recognize and honor the essential role that small businesses and entrepreneurs play in driving Chicago's economy, creating jobs, and strengthening neighborhoods. NSBW is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of small businesses in our communities and city.

Mayor Johnson stated, "Small businesses are the heart of Chicago's communities. This National Small Business Week, we celebrate the entrepreneurs who power our local economy and strengthen our neighborhoods." He also emphasized his administration's commitment to making it easier for businesses to start, grow, and sustain themselves by simplifying city processes and investing in neighborhood commercial corridors.

BACP Commissioner Ivan Capifali added, "BACP is focused on creating a supportive business environment where entrepreneurs can navigate City processes with confidence and access the tools they need to grow and thrive in Chicago." The department will be hosting a series of free educational webinars during NSBW to support entrepreneurs and business owners.

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These webinars include topics such as how to apply for a business license, city inspections, available programs and resources for small businesses, and starting and financing a small business. Interested individuals can learn more about these webinars and register at Chicago.gov/BACPWebinars.

In addition to these efforts, BACP is also highlighting their Shop Local Chicago campaign which promotes the benefits of shopping locally such as supporting the local economy. The department is also partnering with organizations like the U.S. SBA and Neighborhood Business Development Centers to amplify their reach of business educational materials.

BACP will also be utilizing social media throughout the week using #SmallBusinessWeek to share important information for businesses. They have also made it easier for businesses to obtain licenses by providing detailed information and guidance on their website, Chicago.gov/BusinessLicensing.

The department has also launched a video series called "BACP Behind the Business License" which features business owners sharing their experiences of working with the City of Chicago and their local business service organization. BACP has also set up a selfie station outside of the Small Business Center on the 8th floor of City Hall to celebrate the accomplishments of business owners. Newly licensed businesses are encouraged to share their photos on social media and tag @ChicagoBACP.

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Willette LeGrant, SBA Illinois District Director, expressed her support for small businesses by saying, "The U.S. Small Business Administration is proud to stand alongside Chicago's small business community." She also emphasized the SBA's commitment to connecting entrepreneurs with resources such as capital, guidance, and contracting opportunities.

Rhonda McFarland, Executive Director of Quad Communities Development Corporation, also highlighted the importance of National Small Business Week by stating, "As a community-level business service organization, we are committed to providing small businesses with the resources, guidance, and support they need to thrive from start-up through growth and expansion."

For more information about BACP programs and services, interested individuals can visit Chicago.gov/BACP. National Small Business Week serves as a reminder of the vital role that small businesses play in driving economic growth and strengthening communities. Through these efforts and resources provided by BACP and its partners, small businesses in Chicago can continue to thrive and contribute to the city's economy.

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