“I really appreciate having people who are able to help and who care for small businesses."

“Without this program, our business would be lost. I received great one-on-one advising that directed my business in a path of growth.”

“Cook County’s support and outreach was a huge lifeline. As things are moving toward normal, we have a really strong footing to move forward.”

“There are so many small business owners here in Cook County who have the skills, the talent and the drive—they just need support, access to capital and coaching to make their vision a reality. I’m proud to say that Cook County has helped me to do that."

“Being a person of color, it makes an enormous difference for companies like us to have access to capital. I am very grateful for the support we have already received from Cook County including job training for our employees and additional marketing support. There is light at the end of the tunnel when you are recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Business Advising has allowed me to learn new information which, in turn, has helped me to think outside the box. Through this program, I was able to meet with someone face-to-face, which is so much more engaging and beneficial. I received one-on-one help that was tailored to my specific questions about marketing and online platforms.”