WELCOME
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9
NAVY PIER
Get excited! Take a look at what's ahead!
Join Us
The IHCC Annual Business Conference & Expo is back at Navy Pier this October 9!
The IHCC Annual Business Conference & Expo returns to Navy Pier this October 9, and it’s more than just a business event. It’s the largest single-day gathering of Illinois’ business ecosystem, where corporate leaders, public agencies, industry professionals, and entrepreneurs all come together to connect, collaborate, and grow.
With over 90 exhibitors, expert-led workshops, targeted matchmaking, and thousands of attendees from across sectors, this is where the engines of Illinois’ economy meet in real time. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling your business, exploring new markets, or representing a public or private organization looking to connect with diverse suppliers and partners, this is where you need to be.
Come ready to build momentum, make meaningful connections, and walk away with more than just business cards. Walk away with real opportunities.
Overview
Opening Breakfast: We’ve secured industry leaders and visionaries who will share their insights and experiences in the business world to inspire and motivate you.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow participants, potential partners, and mentors who can help you advance your career or business goals.
Exhibition Floor: Explore a diverse range of businesses and organizations in our exhibition area, where you can discover new products, services, resources, and opportunities.
Workshops and Conferences: Gain practical knowledge and skills through a series of workshops and conferences on various topics, including entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and more.
EXHIBITOR FLOOR
Explore the Exhibitor Floor
Meet over 90 exhibitors driving innovation, opportunity, and business growth across Illinois and beyond.
The Exhibitor Hall is free and open to all — whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or simply curious about the business landscape, there’s something here for you.
Connect directly with:
Companies, organizations, and agencies shaping the future of business
Decision-makers from major corporations, financial institutions, and government agencies
Programs and resources designed for startups, established businesses, and everything in between
Discover opportunities to:
Access tools and resources to grow your small business
Learn about supplier diversity and procurement programs
Expand your network and build valuable partnerships
Whether you’re here to grow, learn, or explore, the Exhibitor Floor is your gateway to what’s next in Illinois business.
See this year’s exhibitors below!
OPENING BREAKFAST
Join us for an unforgettable morning at our opening breakfast event, where you’ll have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals before immersing yourself in a captivating session with industry leaders and visionaries. Get ready to be inspired and motivated as they share their invaluable insights and entrepreneurial experiences, setting the stage for an electrifying day ahead.
To reserve a table for your team, contact Ivette Orozco at [email protected]
2025 OPENING BREAKFAST SPEAKERS
Speakers Lineup:
Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson
Omar Aquino – Illinois State Senator, Majority Caucus Chair
Michael Frerichs – Illinois State Treasurer
Lisa Hernandez – Illinois State Representative, Deputy Majority Leader
Nora Leerhsen – Acting President, Chicago Transit Authority
Susana Mendoza – Illinois Comptroller
Arthur Miller – IHCC Board of Directors Chairman
Jaime di Paulo – President and CEO, Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
David Seymour – Chief Operating Officer, American Airlines
Eric Smith – Vice Chair, BMO Commercial Bank
Andre Vasquez – 40th Ward Alderperson
WORKSHOPS
We are excited to be hosting a series of workshops covering a range of topics including entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and finances.
Join us and learn from industry experts on how to enhance your business and entrepreneurial journey.
The best part is that all the workshops are FREE once you register as an attendee.
See details of each workshop by clicking on the registration button below.
Workshops by:
Alianza Hispana, Amazon, Bank of America, Chase Bank, CIBC Bank USA, Cook County Small Business Source at IHCC, Illinois SBDC at IHCC, Ross Creative Works, Serna Legal Services, The LemonAd Stand (Brought to you by Verizon), US Bank, Wintrust, and Wipfli
Please note: Seating is first come, first served. Learn more about each session by clicking below and visiting our registration page.
2025 WORKSHOPS:
MATCHMAKING ONE-ON-ONE SESSIONS
The Matchmaking One-on-One Sessions are set up in a “speed dating” format, allowing subcontractors to engage with different Primes. This session offers:
- Valuable targeted discussions with prime contractors for small subcontracting firms.
- Meaningful connections that could impact the future of your business.
- Opportunities to expand networks and create avenues for collaborations.
COCKTAIL NETWORKING RECEPTION
Cocktail Networking Reception at Bar Sol
We’ll conclude the day with a Cocktail Networking Reception at Bar Sol, a standout opportunity to connect with fellow Expo participants in a relaxed, social setting.
Continue the conversation, strengthen new connections, and meet potential collaborators over drinks and light bites.
Tickets are required for this event.
Recommended Hotel – Sable Hotel at Navy Pier
Enjoy an exclusive discount when you book your stay through our special link in partnership with the Sable Hotel.
Click [HERE] to access the booking link and fill out the prompt to secure your discounted rate.