The 2023 Source Grant Launch
The launch of The 2023 Source Grant brought together many of our community partners and small businesses. The press event on July 19 featured President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison, grant administrators Women’s Business Development Center and Allies for Community Businesses, the Bureau of Economic Development and the Office of Veteran Affairs and […]
The Source Honored with a National Association of Counties Award
Did you know that The Source’s work in assisting 10,000 businesses has led to its recognition as a national model for small business assistance? Since its inception, The Source has assisted small businesses by providing no cost business advising, a library of resources, events, training and access to capital opportunities. Congratulations to The Source for […]
The Source e-Newsletter: June Edition
A new edition of The Source e-Newsletter just dropped! June’s newsletter highlights tools available on The Source’s new Resources page, an inspiring small business impact story, free upcoming events and financing opportunities. Click here to view the June e-Newsletter. Don’t receive our newsletter yet? Subscribe here on our website today.
Partner with The Source: Become a Business Support Organization
The Women’s Business Development Center on behalf of the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development seeks 2-4 non-profit Business Support Organizations (BSOs) to provide business advising services for The Cook County Small Business Source. We seek organizations that: Since 2020, the Cook County Small Business Source has provided no-cost business advising, resources, events/webinars, and grants […]
Applications Now Closed: DCEO Back To Business (B2B) Grants for Creative Arts, Hotels & Restaurants
As of 12am, May 11th, the application window for the DCEO Back To Business (B2B) Grants is closed. The State of Illinois has launched a new round of the Back to Business (B2B) program. Eligible restaurants, hotels and creative arts businesses are eligible to apply for $175 million in available grant funding as part of […]
Check Your Certificate of Good Standing Status Today!
Make sure your business is in good standing with the State of Illinois. Your business may need to get a copy of your certificate to: Open a business bank account Apply for a business loan Seek investments from investors Purchase small business insurance Register to do business in another state Keep a current status of […]
Make your final preparations for Small Business Saturday!
Saturday, November 26 is Small Business Saturday, is a day designed to promote the importance of small businesses for the local economy on one of the biggest shopping days of the year! Take action now to prepare yourself and your business to serve your customers, hit your sales goals, promote your offers on social media, […]
Important Grow Grant Update
March 1, 2023 Thank you to all the businesses who applied for a Grow Grant. We appreciate your interest, your participation, and your patience in moving this program forward. Please find below important updates in our effort to bring more services and resources to you this year. Litigation was recently filed against the County regarding […]
Cook County: Manufacturing Reinvented
Ready to take your business to the next level? On August 11, 2022, Cook County launched Manufacturing Reinvented, a $5 million grant program to support suburban Cook County manufacturers. This program reimburses manufacturers for implementation of projects designed to improve productivity, develop future leaders, train your workforce, and grow your business. The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center’s expert advisors will work one-on-one […]
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 […]
