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You’ve got mail! Discover The Source’s August eNewsletter–filled with the resources, news, events and more to help your business grow and thrive!

Disaster Recovery Assistance for Impacted Businesses Available Now: Apply by September 8

If your business was damaged in the June 11, 2026 severe storms and tornadoes in Cook County, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) can help. The SBA has approved a disaster declaration, opening access to low-interest loans to cover damages insurance didn't cover.

Businesses can borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace buildings, equipment, inventory and other business assets. Interest rates start at 4%, with repayment terms up to 30 years. Businesses won't make any payments for the first 12 months after receiving their loan.

Applicants can also get up to 20% more to make their business more storm-resistant, such as installing wind-rated doors or reinforcing their structure. Having insurance doesn't disqualify anyone from applying, and applying for a loan doesn't mean a business has to take it. Businesses that had no physical damage but lost income can apply for economic injury assistance too.

The deadline to apply for physical damage to your business is Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Businesses applying under the economic injury deadline have until April 12, 2027.

Resources are also available for Cook County businesses and residents impacted by the July 27, 2026 severe storms. Don’t wait to see if you qualify; learn more and apply at sba.gov/disaster or call (800) 659-2955

Webinar Wednesday: SBA Disaster Loans

Join us for a brief overview of the SBA’s Disaster Loan program. You’ll learn more about who qualifies, how loans can be utilized and how to apply directly from an SBA administrator. Don’t miss this opportunity to ask your questions directly.

Wednesday, August 26, 2026

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Meet The Source’s 2026 Referral Partners

The Source's referral partner network just grew to 40+ organizations across Cook County. From direct connections to tailored resources, our partners are making a measurable difference for local entrepreneurs.

Some partners represent a specific geography, others an industry and others a specific demographic segment of the population.

Click here to view the full list of our 2026 referral partners.

Financial Foundations: Tips from The Source

Missed the July Webinar Wednesday? The Source partnered with Jewish Free Loan Chicago (JFLC)—a trusted Source Community Financial Institution (CFI)—to showcase their zero-interest loans, offering up to $20,000 for business owners. Click here to watch the webinar recording. 

The Source is proud to partner with five local CFIs as our trusted lenders for Cook County small businesses seeking capital. Interested in learning more? Sign up for business advising to be matched with the right CFI for your unique needs.

Upcoming Events

Small Business Opportunities

Attend the 2026 IHCC Annual Business Conference and Expo

​The Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC)–a Source Business Support Organization–invites business owners and entrepreneurs to the Annual Business Conference & Expo at Navy Pier on Thursday, August 27. More than just a business event, this one-day conference brings together corporate leaders, public agencies, industry professionals and entrepreneurs, all under one roof.

Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling your business or looking to connect with diverse suppliers and partners, this is the place to be. Join from 11 AM - 4 PM to enjoy free networking opportunities, an exhibitor floor showcasing a wide array of potential partners curated to help move your business forward and expert-led workshop sessions. Learn more and register here.

4th Annual Chicago Southwest Economic Summit

Join the Greater Southwest Development Corporation (GSDC)–a Source Business Support Organization–on Thursday, September 10 at Richard J. Daley College for the 4th Annual Chicago Southwest Economic Summit. 

This complimentary summit will feature insights from regional leaders, breakout conversations and panel discussions centered on the next chapter for Chicago’s Southwest Side; exploring how residents and businesses alike can plan for change in the areas of investment, workforce needs, manufacturing, philanthropy and regional development. Registration for the Summit is available to all at no cost; register to attend here.

Are You an Employer in Cook County? Attend a Free Training

The Cook County Commission on Human Rights is partnering with the American Job Center in Wheeling, Ill., to offer employers a free training session on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 9 AM. Employers and small business owners with employees who perform at least 50% of their work in Cook County are invited to join for an overview of key workplace laws, including paid leave, minimum wage and discrimination prevention. 

Gain practical guidance to stay informed, maintain compliance, and support a fair and inclusive workplace. The workshop will be offered both in-person and remotely. Click here to register. Questions? Contact DHREOutreach.Training@CookCountyIL.gov.