As the Democratic National Convention kicks off next week, World Business Chicago is seizing this incredible opportunity to showcase why Chicago is the best city in America to start, expand, or relocate a business. It’s why we’re hosting a special event, “A Toast to Chicago Business” designed to “sell Chicago” to out-of-town guests—decision-makers and influencers who have the power to bring new business, investment, and talent to our great city.

Chicago is where talent, innovation, transportation, and infrastructure converge, making it a premier destination for businesses looking to thrive. Strategically located at the heart of the United States, our city offers unparalleled access to global markets.

With O’Hare International Airport—the world’s most connected airport—seven Class I railroads, and the third-largest inland port in the world, Chicago is a true crossroads of commerce. Businesses, people, and goods are all within a four-hour flight of the entire North American market, with non-stop service to more than 60 international destinations.

At our event, we’ll be launching a new campaign that showcases the many economic reasons why Chicago is the ideal place to start or grow a business. This campaign is backed by data-driven insights that highlight Chicago’s unique strengths. Here are some of the key points we’ll be focusing on:

• Economic Powerhouse: Chicago is the #3 metro economy in the U.S., boasting an $860 billion GDP. Our economy is fueled by a diverse range of industries, with no single sector accounting for more than 13% of our GDP, making us resilient and adaptable.
• Unmatched Talent Pool: Our workforce is 5 million strong, supported by nearly 250 higher education institutions that feed a robust pipeline of skilled talent. This talent pool is the #1 most sought-after attribute by employers, making Chicago an ideal location for businesses focused on innovation and growth.
• Global Connectivity: Chicago offers unparalleled access to global markets, with O’Hare International Airport ranked as the world’s most connected airport. Our strategic location puts businesses within a four-hour flight of the entire North American market, with non-stop service to over 60 international destinations.
• Top Event Destination: Chicago has a proven track record of hosting major events, including 25 nominating conventions for both major American political parties—more than any other city. In 2023 alone, more than 2.1 million people attended meetings and conventions in our city, solidifying our reputation as a premier destination.
• Quality of Life: Chicago has been voted the Best Big City in the U.S. for seven consecutive years by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler. Our rich culture, world-class dining, and diverse neighborhoods make Chicago a truly exceptional place to live and work.

As we pitch Chicago to influential visitors—business leaders, entrepreneurs, relocation prospects, and civic influencers—we’re reminded that every Chicagoan can be an ambassador for our city. The data and stories we’ll showcase next week, in our digital campaigns, and through our daily prospecting efforts are tools that each of us can use to highlight and defend what makes Chicago exceptional. We all play a role in shaping the narrative of Chicago as a thriving, dynamic hub for business and innovation.

Let’s all take pride in the greatest city we call home. Let’s share the stories of our successful collaborations, our resilient economy, and the bright future ahead. Together, we will continue building Chicago’s legacy as the best city in the world to live, work, and do business.

Join us in ensuring the world knows why Chicago is truly second to none.