City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) offers workshops every Wednesday and Friday.
Workshops vary each month and are conducted by City of Chicago Officials, experts, and partner business organizations, such as the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC).
All workshops are free and open to the public.
Talk to City Inspectors, Ask Questions, Get Answers is a special workshop offered on the first Wednesday of every month at City Hall
The workshop is highly recommended for anybody interested in opening a business, especially one that requires a pre-license inspection for one or more city departments.
This workshop will give you the full spectrum of licensing, permits and inspection requirements for many types of businesses including restaurants, manufacturing, day care centers, motor vehicle repair shops and many others.
Workshops Topics:
• Business licensing requirements
• Develop a business plan
• How to finance your business
• Know what to expect during an inspection
• Marketing, social media and websites
• Leverage technology to boost your business
Business Start-Up Certificate Program
Complete 9 workshops in a 6 month period and earn a Business Start- up Certificate. Those who earn a certificate are eligible to apply for low-interest and no-fee loans ranging from $1,000 – $25,000 through the CIBC Entrepreneurial Loan Program.
Workshops are held at BACP’s offices located in Room 805 and Room 1103 at City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60602.
To register for a workshop please email BACPoutreach@cityofchicago.org or call 312.744.2086.
Download the monthly calendar here
