ICNC would like to thank all those who attended the ICNC Annual Boat Cruise on June 23. Over 150 attendees enjoyed beautiful weather, good company, and inspiring words from our staff, sponsors, and supporters. The event aboard the Anita Dee II was more than successful, and we look forward to seeing all the guests return for next year's cruise !

We would like to thank our event sponsors:  South Central Bank, Ameriflex, L&W Supply, and the following in-kind donors:  Whole Foods Market,  Jewell Events Catering, and  Mars Incorporated.

 

Wednesday, August 10th

The Hatchery, a collaboration between ICNC and Accion Chicago to bring education, capital, and support to the Chicagoland food entrepreneur community, has upcoming food workshops on various topics from starting a food business to marketing your food business.

The Hatchery Networking - Mix, Make, & Mingle - Thursday, July 21

The Food Safety Modernization Act - What You Need to Know Now - Thursday, July 28

Starting a Food Business - Tuesday, August 9

Food Business Insurance  - Thursday, September 15

ICNC has received funds through TIFWorks 50/50, an employee training reimbursement program issued by the City of Chicago. Applications are currently being accepted. Applicants must be located within the Kinzie Industrial TIF District boundaries. All training must be pre-approved by the City. For more information, contact Hannah Jones at [email protected].

HAVEN Home Staging & Redesign began in 2009 as a company specializing in the transformation of a vacant or occupied property into a home worth purchasing or renting. HAVEN's owner, Cheri Kasella, has 20 years of experience in the world of real estate. Cheri has used her knowledge to embrace the staging side of real estate to create an emotional, memorable home-buying/selling experience.

At its start, HAVEN's home staging was a new business category that was an exception to the home listing process. Today, the National Association of Realtors recommends staging as one of the top five home improvement projects. HAVEN works exclusively within the City of Chicago, so they can personally and uniquely stage each of their projects to connect with the home's neighborhood and buyer demographic. Their base of operations at ICNC since 2010 helps furnish their staged properties with furniture, artwork, accessories, and more. To learn more about HAVEN Home Staging & Redesign, click here.

Every month ICNC hosts a breakfast with 27th Ward Alderman Walter Burnett, Jr. These meetings are an opportunity for area companies to discuss issues they have with crime, infrastructure, zoning, and other topics. For more information on ICNC's monthly Alderman's meeting, please contact Hannah Jones at [email protected].

Chicago Neighbors United and 27th Ward Alderman Walter Burnett, Jr are hosting the 22nd Annual Stay In School Picnic at Union Park on August 27 from 9 AM - 5 PM. The picnic will feature a variety of food and activities including games, entertainment, a children's tent, a senior's tent, and opportunities for back to school immunization (medical records must be provided by parents). They also distribute school supplies to local children; to donate money or supplies, please contact the 27th Ward office at (312) 432-1995.

ICNC will be celebrating 50 years of helping small businesses grow next year!  We are kicking off the planning of the 50th year anniversary celebrations and would love to have your ideas and energy.  If you are interested in sharing some of your time and ideas with us to help us plan for next year, contact Jennifer Holmes at [email protected].

Breathe Bar , a new modern meditation and wellness concept, is launching its first pop-up location on Friday, July 15th from 11 am - 2 pm at La Criolla (907 W Randolph St). Be among the first to check it out! Pop over and zen out on our breathe bar meditation players and then sample yummy snacks and best-in-class wellness offerings. Register  here . ICNC community members receive 50% off tickets with code ICNC.

ICNC Incubator company I-Net Sales is having another huge warehouse clearance sale Sunday, July 24, from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Items to be sold include golf clubs, cookware sets, children's toys, electronics, Ralph Lauren polo shirts, and more .

The Garfield Park Community Council  started a neighborhood market in Garfield Park selling produce and other products from local growers. The Market, located at Kedzie and Lake, features art and food vendors, music, food demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and more. They are looking for growers local food producers to participate. Click  here  for the vendor application.

ICNC Newsletter and Website  -   ICNC members who have an announcement such as a new product launch or a special promotion can have it included in our monthly newsletter. Members with media attention can have the article link included on ICNC's ' In The News ' section of the website. Send all relevant information and links to Hannah Jones at [email protected]  by the last day of the month.

Business Workshops : The Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) offers workshops every Wednesday and Friday. Workshops vary each month and are conducted by city officials, experts, and partner business organizations. All workshops are free and open to the public. To view the business workshop calendar, click  here .