2.8 Small Business

2.8 Develop the small business and entrepreneurship ecosystem, especially for Black and Latine residents, to reduce the racial wealth gap.

Lead Department: Bureau of Economic Development

FY24 Highlighted Accomplishments:

• Awarded a total of $50 million to 3,000 small businesses.
• Provided business advising services to more than 3,500 businesses.
• Launched a collaborative webinar series between Women’s Business Development Center and the Cook County Small Business Source, which included specific sessions on government contracting to promote inclusive procurement.
• Organized a mapping session with County agencies that offer resources and services to small businesses to coordinate and amplify opportunities for collaboration.

Implementation Status: On track – meaningful progress advanced