CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) have announced their renewed commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting a strong economic environment for business owners, workers, and consumers in the city. As the new year begins, the focus remains on providing resources, guidance, and support to small businesses to ensure their success.

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of small businesses in Chicago, stating that they are the backbone of the city's economy and the heart of its neighborhoods. He also highlighted his dedication to providing practical support, encouraging growth, and maintaining fair oversight through BACP in order to build a safer and more affordable Chicago.

BACP Commissioner Ivan Capifali echoed this sentiment, recognizing that the start of a new year brings opportunities for both current and prospective business owners. He emphasized BACP's goal of ensuring that businesses feel supported, informed, and confident as they plan for the months ahead. Capifali also stressed that small businesses are essential to the continued growth and stability of Chicago.

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To achieve these goals, BACP has implemented several initiatives including the 2026 Chicago Small Biz Expos. These expos bring free business resources directly to entrepreneurs in the community. Attendees can access City of Chicago business licensing consultants, tax clinics, financial advisors, workshops, professional headshots, networking opportunities, and more. The expos will be held on March 12th (remotely), May 16th at Truman College, and August 29th at Malcolm X College.

In addition to these expos, BACP offers free business education webinars every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. These webinars cover various topics such as business licensing, operations, financial resources, marketing strategies, and more. They are open to the public and taught by industry professionals as well as government agencies.

For those interested in starting or growing a business in Chicago, BACP offers a free Entrepreneur Certificate Program. This program provides knowledge across essential business topics and participants who attend six BACP webinars within six months will receive a program certificate. Graduates of the program are also eligible to apply for the Entrepreneur Loan Program with BACP's partner, CIBC Bank USA, and may receive college credit through City Colleges of Chicago.

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The City is also continuing its efforts to reduce barriers and burdens for small businesses through the Cut the Tape for Small Business initiative. This program aims to improve City processes and programs in order to make it easier and faster for small businesses to operate in Chicago. Additionally, the Shop Local Chicago campaign highlights the benefits of shopping locally, such as supporting the local economy and workforce.

These efforts are part of a larger strategy to promote economic stability and innovation in Chicago. Businesses are encouraged to stay informed through official City communications, review current regulations, and take advantage of available resources.

Last year, Mayor Johnson's administration launched Cut the Tape for Small Business, which has already made significant progress in streamlining administrative processes for housing and commercial development. This new program builds upon that success and aims to uplift and empower small businesses across Chicago.

As we enter a new year, Mayor Johnson and BACP remain committed to supporting local businesses and fostering a strong economic environment in Chicago. With these initiatives in place, small businesses can navigate compliance requirements, adapt to changing economic conditions, and explore new growth opportunities with confidence.

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