Chicago’s entrepreneurial landscape is vibrant and diverse, offering a wealth of resources for aspiring and established business owners. Various organizations and programs across the city are dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs in launching, growing, and sustaining their ventures.
Chicago Urban League’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation
The Chicago Urban League’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation focuses on assisting Black entrepreneurs. The center provides tools to maximize revenues, reduce costs, and drive job creation. Services include one-on-one coaching in areas such as strategy, branding, access to capital, marketing, finance, procurement, and operations. Additionally, the center helps businesses obtain supplier diversity certifications and respond to bids on public and private contracts. Learn more.
Urban Array’s Running Start Entrepreneurship Training
Urban Array offers the Running Start Entrepreneurship Training, a free bootcamp designed for BIPOC entrepreneurs in Chicago’s R3 Zones. This program covers nine training topics, including design thinking and business modeling, to equip participants with the skills needed to launch their businesses. Graduates gain access to funding, mentorship, and community resources. Discover more.
University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
The Polsky Center provides a variety of programs and resources to support entrepreneurs. Their New Business Start Support Program guides aspiring entrepreneurs from idea to official business launch through structured sessions and one-on-one advising. The center also offers the Collaboratorium, connecting students with researchers and faculty to explore commercialization opportunities. Find out more.
DePaul University’s Coleman Entrepreneurship Center
DePaul University’s Coleman Entrepreneurship Center hosts year-round events, programs, and workshops that connect students, alumni, and Chicago entrepreneurs. Their Mentorship Program matches participants with experts to improve their businesses and expand networks. The center also offers an Internship Program providing students with opportunities to work closely with founders on specific projects. Learn more.
Center for Changing Lives’ Small Business Coaching
The Center for Changing Lives offers small business coaching to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Chicago, focusing on areas near Logan Square/Humboldt Park and South Chicago. They provide support and coaching to connect individuals with the resources needed to launch or sustain their businesses. Explore their services.
These resources and programs play a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs in Chicago, contributing to the city’s dynamic and resilient business community.