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Business Education and Resources

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The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) provides a number of programs and resources to support business on all steps of the entrepreneurial journey.

Business Education

Webinars

BACP's free business education webinars are held every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning on topics such as business licensing, marketing, business planning, technology, financial resources, and more.

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Entrepreneur Certificate Program

Free and optional program available to attendees of BACP's free business education webinars. Once you successfully complete the program, you will be eligible to apply for an entrepreneurial loan with our partner bank.

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SMALL BUSINESS EXPOS


Free business resources to the community for new and existing entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their business in the City of Chicago.  The series of expos offer business resources such as:

  • City of Chicago business licensing consultants
  • Tax clinic
  • Financial advisors
  • Workshops
  • Professional headshots
  • Networking and more

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CHI FOOD TRUCK FEST 

The #ChiFoodTruckFest brings a different lineup of food trucks to Daley Plaza on Fridays throughout the summer. The Fest is designed to provide additional opportunities for Chicago’s Food Truck operators to thrive while bringing new and diverse food options to Chicago’s Loop.

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Resources 

Business Licensing

Neighborhood Business Development Center

Chicago Business Center

Minority and Women-Owned Supplier Development

Economic Recovery

Office of Labor Standards


Sign Up for the BACP Newsletter

Sign-up for the BACP Newsletter to receive e-mails on City regulations, business education events, and vital consumer protection information.

BACP Social Media Toolkit

Check out BACP’s social media accounts for valuable and useful information for Chicago’s entrepreneurs and to stay connected to webinars, expos, City regulations, and more.