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Uptown Chamber of Commerce

The Uptown Chamber of Commerce exists to promote the business community in Uptown. Its members are supported with programs focused on marketing, strategic partnerships, City permitting, district events, advocacy, and economic development.

About

Since 1923 the Uptown Chamber of Commerce has been the go-to resource center for the small business community in and around Uptown, Chicago.  The Chamber is focused on supporting the numerous retail zones, historic entertainment district, and promoting the district to residents of the area and visitors from all over the globe.    

All businesses and entrepreneurs at any stage of business development are welcome to seek support from the Uptown Chamber of Commerce. Culturally specific services are available for the SE Asian community and there is a staff member who can speak Vietnamese. The Uptown Chamber is unique in that roughly ¼ of the membership is made up of nonprofit organizations.     

Services Provided

Develop ideas

  • Establish goals (Specialty)
  • Define products
  • Create business plan

Formalize structures

  • Register legally
  • Secure licenses (Specialty)
  • Buy insurance
  • Buy or rent space
  • Certify as MBE/WBE

Find financing

  • Establish accounts
  • Manage books
  • Analyze needs
  • Apply for a loan
  • Apply for a grant (Specialty)
  • Evaluate equity

Increase sales

  • Update forecast
  • Improve marketing
  • Establish online
  • Develop partners (Specialty)
  • Update business plan
  • Join accelerator

Optimize operations

  • Measure operations
  • Write handbook

Hire / retain staff

  • Write job specs (Specialty)
  • Draft staff manual

Capture wealth

  • Update pitch deck
  • Meet investors
  • Seek legal counsel
  • Plan for succession
  • Sell your business
Contact Information
John Blick
Address
4619 N Broadway
Chicago, IL 60640