Small Business, Big Impact: Chicago’s Entrepreneurs Lead with Optimism, Grit & Growth

As National Small Business Week wraps up, World Business Chicago joins Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) in celebrating the entrepreneurs who power our economy, build vibrant communities, and shape Chicago’s future.

“During National Small Business Week, the City of Chicago renews its commitment to helping our small businesses thrive by providing valuable support and resources,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Under initiatives like the recently announced Build Better Together initiative, we will continue to drive economic growth that benefits every commercial corridor of our city.”

Despite national headwinds—tariffs, inflation, and uncertainty—Chicago’s small business leaders continue to lead with resilience and growth.

Small Business Sentiment: Chicago Stands Out

A new national survey by Chase for Business revealed a sharp drop in overall small business optimism, with sentiment falling to 65% in March (down from 79% in January).

But in Chicago? Optimism remains strong at 80%, the highest among major cities surveyed. Even amid policy shifts and economic pressure, 70% of Chicago’s small businesses report being in “growth mode,” nearly double the national average.

Investing in Tools, Talent & Local Impact

Chicago small business owners are adapting, not retreating. From increasing investments in technology and employee retention to doubling down on local partnerships, the mindset is clear: keep moving forward.

Citywide Support in Action

This week kicked off with a press conference at *play Hyde Park where city leaders gathered to spotlight ongoing support for Chicago’s entrepreneurs. From there, the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) led a series of webinars focused on licensing, inspections, grants, and more, demonstrating the city’s continued commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible small business ecosystem. Other recent efforts:

• Highlighting the Shop Local Chicago campaign, which continues to spotlight the value of neighborhood commerce;
• Promoting the Behind the Business License video series to share stories of business owners working with the City of Chicago and their local business service organization;
• Partnering with BACP Neighborhood Business Development Centers to amplify the reach of business educational materials and initiatives;, and,
• Supporting the new Build Better Together platform to unify City and partner outreach.

“BACP ensures every Chicago business owner and entrepreneur has access to the resources, education, and support they need to thrive,” said BACP Commissioner Ivan J Capifali, “National Small Business Week is a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in small businesses and celebrating those who keep our city moving forward.”

Build Better Together is Mayor Johnson’s citywide economic development platform designed to drive inclusive, sustainable growth across all 77 of Chicago’s community areas. Rooted in equity and opportunity, the initiative focuses on three core pillars—housing, business and innovation, and culture—to align investments, resources, and citywide collaboration around strengthening neighborhoods, revitalizing commercial corridors, and unlocking Chicago’s full economic potential.

Through coordinated partnerships, community engagement, and bold civic leadership, Build Better Together positions Chicago to thrive not just today, but for generations to come.

Ongoing Support for Chicago’s Small Businesses

BACP’s support and programming don’t stop with Small Business Week. Explore licensing guidance, register for upcoming webinars, or connect with a local NBDC: chicago.gov/bacp

Next Week: Inside the Work Powering Chicago’s Economic Future

In celebration of National Economic Development Week, May 12- May 17, the next edition of WBC’s Business Pulse powered by LinkedIn, will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the projects, partnerships, and people driving inclusive growth across Chicago. From global business attraction and site selection to neighborhood investment and job creation, you’ll get an inside view of how World Business Chicago is shaping the city and region’s economic momentum—one strategic initiative at a time.

Is your company considering expansion or relocation? DM us to explore how World Business Chicago can help you grow in one of the most globally connected, opportunity-rich cities in the country.