World Business Chicago’s CASE initiative (Chicago Anchors for a Strong Economy) has generated more than $9 million in new contracts since its inception in 2014. The program leverages anchors (large institutions with significant buying power) and the small business ecosystem to create middle income jobs and neighborhood vibrancy throughout Cook County. Through CASE, Chicago-area anchors become buyers of products and services offered by local small businesses.Наличники на окна своими руками

The program recently celebrated its success by recognizing its greatest contributors with three inaugural awards: Anchor of the Year, Business of the Year, and Partner of the Year.

“Anchors, businesses and partners are the three pillars of CASE and all of our success is rooted in the commitment of these stakeholders,” said Nitika Nautiyal, Executive Director of CASE. “The CASE program brings together public and private organizations to create growth and jobs throughout our neighborhoods, and we are grateful for the commitment everyone involved has made to Chicago.”

The Anchor of the Year award recognizes the anchor institutions that have demonstrated commitment in the early adoption of CASE’s data driven approach, support in designing and executing its strategic plan, and participation in CASE activities and events. Chicago Deputy Mayor Steve Koch presented these awards to three anchors:

The Business of the Year award recognizes CASE graduates who are ultimately translating opportunities into jobs throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods. The CASE 2014-15 Business of the Year awards were presented by Chicago Treasurer Kurt Summers to two businesses which have created the most jobs through contracts secured with CASE’s help:

The Partner of the Year award was presented by the CASE co-chairs, Vice President for Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago Derek Douglas and Vice President of Corporate and External Affairs at Rush University Medical Center and Chairman of the Chicago Transit Board Terry Peterson, to:

More than 200 businesses have participated in CASE since its inception, creating more than 70 jobs. In 2015 the program welcomed four new anchors: Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago Housing Authority, Northwestern University, and Museums in the Park. In the year ahead, the program will provide more one-on-one business services that complement existing programs offered by WBC partners throughout the region.  

For more information on CASE, visit WorldBusinessChicago.com/CASE