Chicago Business Resource Expo To Empower Current And Aspiring Business Owners

Chicago Business Resource Expo To Empower Current And Aspiring Business Owners

The May 16th expo will provide free resources to support a thriving and equitable small business ecosystem

CHICAGO - Today, the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) announced the Chicago Business Resource Expo will take place on Saturday, May 16^th from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Truman College. The free expo is designed to support and connect local entrepreneurs and small business owners across Chicago.

The expo will feature a networking session sponsored by the Office of City Treasurer, an exhibition hall offering resources from over 30 nonprofit and government agencies, workshops on topics such as finance ,marketing and a keynote address by Jackie Taylor, Founder and CEO of Black Ensemble Theater, the only theater in the nation whose mission is to eradicate racism and its damaging effects on society through the utilization of theater arts and community engagement. To register and learn more, visit Chicago.gov/BizExpo.

"Small businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods and the driving force behind a more equitable economy," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The Chicago Business Resource Expo reflects our commitment to investing in entrepreneurs at every stage, connecting them with the tools they need to succeed. When we support our small business, we are strengthening families, creating job, and building a more inclusive Chicago for all."

"The Chicago Business Resource Expo is an opportunity for business owners to gain knowledge, make connections, and access resources that can help their businesses thrive," said BACP Commissioner Ivan Capifali. "This expo reflects our commitment to building a strong, inclusive small business ecosystem by providing the tools and connections needed for long-term success."

The Black Ensemble Theater was founded in 1976 by actress, producer and playwright Jackie Taylor. She has written, produced and directed more than 100 plays and musical biographies. She is a theater graduate from Loyola University, has a master's in education from the American College of Education and holds a Doctor of Humane Letters from DePaul University. She is a consummate actress having starred in numerous theatrical productions with many major theaters and winning national attention in her first film "Cooley High." She is also an educator, having taught in the Chicago Public Schools for more than 35 years.

"As a small business owner in the arts, I've seen firsthand how vital community support and access to resources are to long-term success," said Jackie Taylor, Founder and CEO of Black Ensemble Theater. "The Chicago Business Resource Expo creates space for entrepreneurs to learn and connect so they can continue to thrive and contribute to the cultural and economic fabric of our city."

In partnership with City of Chicago Colleges and the Chicago Treasurer's Office, the upcoming expo is sponsored by Wintrust Bank, Old National Bank, CIBC Bank USA, and Pursuit Lending.

The expo will take place on Saturday, May 16^th from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Truman College, located at 1145 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640. The schedule is as follows:

8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m.: Registration and Expo Opens

Attendees can visit exhibitors, get expert advice and receive free professional headshots.

9:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m.: Welcome and Networking Session

Attendees can participate in a breakfast networking session sponsored by the Chicago Treasurer's Office.

9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.: Exhibitor Hall Reopens

Attendees can visit exhibitors, get expert advice and receive free professional headshots.

10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Keynote Address (Exhibitor Hall closed)

Jackie Taylor, Founder and CEO of Black Ensemble Theater

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Business Education Workshop 1

12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m.: Business Education Workshop 2

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Exhibitor Hall Open

Attendees can visit exhibitors, get expert advice and receive free professional headshots.

BACP rebranded Chicago Small Biz Expo to Chicago Business Resource Expo. BACP will continue to provide businesses resources for current and aspiring small business owners in Chicago through a series of small business expos.

To register and for more information, visit Chicago.gov/BizExpo. For inquiries call (312) 744-2086 or email [email protected]. For information about BACP, visit Chicago.gov/BACP.

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