Uriel Mendez

Uriel Méndez Fernández serves as a Business Advisor for the Cook County Small Business Source program at the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC), where he provides one-on-one counseling, licensing guidance, and strategic support for entrepreneurs and small business owners. In this role, he also collaborates closely with elected officials and civic leaders to coordinate educational sessions and resources for the Latino community across Cook County.

Uriel began his career at IHCC as a Project Coordinator with the Illinois Small Business Development Center (IL SBDC). He later supported the Community Navigator Program of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), assisting hundreds of business owners during critical recovery periods. Over time, his leadership and dedication have positioned him as a trusted advisor and community connector.

He has also been a featured panelist and moderator at major conferences, including the IHCC Annual Business Conference & Expo in 2023, 2024, and 2025, contributing his expertise on entrepreneurship, small business development, and community empowerment.

Before joining IHCC, Uriel dedicated more than a decade to public service at the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago, where he worked in the Department of Protection and Legal Affairs. During his tenure, he managed international legal assistance and criminal affairs. He was recognized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for his outstanding work in cross-border collaboration and legal advocacy.

Born and raised in Mexico City, Uriel moved to Chicago in 2008 and has since built a career that spans government, nonprofit, and private sectors. His diverse background makes him a highly effective project manager and government liaison, with strong skills in community relations, entrepreneurship support, and program development.

Uriel earned his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Universidad del Valle in Mexico City, specializing in Criminology. He is also a graduate of the BACP Entrepreneur Certificate Program, sponsored by the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection. He is currently in the process of obtaining his MBA to further strengthen his expertise in business management and leadership.

Beyond his professional work, Uriel is passionate about travel, hiking, coffee culture, and exploring the many neighborhoods of Chicago. He also enjoys reading and spending time with friends, always looking for new ways to connect with people and ideas.