A new way to grow: How one Cook County small business owner embraced business advising and leveraged a procurement success

For Letitia Clark, owner of the Calumet City medical supply company A New Way To Go, advancing access to medical equipment and supplies represents a life-long passion. Having learned the importance of equitable access to healthcare at her first job with the Cook County Health and Hospital System (CHHS), Letitia remains committed to improving access […]
Offering Fresh Food Dining in the Southland: Pink Panini and the Entrepreneurial Journey

Meet Latrice Wright, owner of Pink Panini, a restaurant in Hazel Crest, IL that provides the Southland community with fresh soups, sandwiches, salads, and much more. After 16 years of service at the Chicago Housing Authority, Latrice learned firsthand how hard it could be to fit a healthy lunch into a packed schedule. Because of […]
From “Corrections to Confections”: How One Small Business Owner Utilized The Source to Pursue Her Passion

When Lisa Marsh (second to left) retired from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, she decided it was time to further pursue her personal passion of creating allergen free foods. Named in honor of her mother, Lisa launched MsPsGFree, a gluten free snack company, despite having no prior experience running a food-based business. “I came into […]
The Escape Factor

Dexter Cura, co-owner of The Escape Factor in Forest Park, IL, shares his best advice for business owners: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can find mentors, support and connections in many places, including the Cook County Small Business Source. Dexter Cura, The Escape Factor in Forest Park, IL SIGN UP FOR BUSINESS […]
Inductor of Healing

Shortly after beginning his business, Inductor of Healing, Malike Ayouba signed up to receive business advising. He was able to gain invaluable guidance in how to best develop and market his business. He accredits his successful journey to the skills he learned through the Cook County Small Business Source. Malike Ayouba, Inductor of Healing in […]
Moreno’s Shoe Repair

Ernesto Moreno signed up for business advising from Cook County Small Business Source to help grow his family business, Moreno’s Shoe Repair in Berwyn. Through the program, he also learned about available grants and received assistance with marketing. Best of all, Moreno knew he wasn’t facing his business challenges alone. “I was able to go […]