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This month, the Cook County Small Business Source is bringing you valuable resources to protect your business during these uncertain times–and providing some tips on preparing for Small Business Saturday.

We also encourage you to explore Cook County’s Catalyst Grant, a unique opportunity for businesses on the verge of growth. Plus, we want to hear from you on what you would like to see featured in our Webinar Wednesday series.

The Source hopes all of our readers enjoy a happy Thanksgiving.

Resources to support your business and community

Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce - Tools to Protect Your Business

Ensuring your business is protected from unfair targeting is not just important; it’s essential to long-term stability and continuity. The Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC)—a Source Business Support Organization—has recently launched Tools to Protect Your Business, a comprehensive resource designed to help small business owners and their employees prepare for and navigate potential disruptions.

This resource provides critical information, practical guidance, and actionable tools to ensure that businesses can continue operating, even in the event of unforeseen challenges.

2-1-1 Metro Chicago

When challenges arise, whether personal or professional, having quick access to trusted resources can make all the difference.

2-1-1 Metro Chicago is a free helpline available to all Cook County residents, connecting individuals and families with essential community support. Simply dial 2-1-1 from any phone or visit 211metrochicago.org to be connected with a trained community resource navigator. Assistance is available 24/7 for a wide range of needs, including food and housing support, utility payment assistance, health care, transportation, childcare, employment, and mental health services.

Encourage your employees and community members to use this valuable resource; it’s a simple way to ensure help is always within reach.

Get ready for Small Business Saturday!

Small Business Saturday is just around the corner, taking place on November 29, 2025. This nationwide celebration encourages shoppers to support local businesses like yours. Now’s the perfect time to ramp up your promotions, refresh your storefront (in-person or online), and remind your customers why shopping small makes a big impact.



Looking for resources to help make Small Business Saturday a success? Check out the Shop Small Resource Hub from American Express! You'll find free promotional graphics, printable signage, business tools and marketing tips, all designed to help you attract more customers and make the most of the day.

Tap into no-cost business advising with The Source

No matter the season or circumstance, trusted business advisors with The Source are available to provide support, connection and guidance to all Cook County small business owners and entrepreneurs, always at no cost. Signing up for business advising takes less than 10 minutes and pairs you with a local advocate best suited to your situation and ready to help you take your business to the next level. Learn more and sign up today at cookcountysmallbiz.org/business-advising.

The Catalyst Grant: Fueling what’s next

Cook County businesses are powering the local economy, and now it’s time to push yours to the next level. The Catalyst Grant is a $100,000 opportunity for 88 businesses that are ready to scale and use funds to address workforce needs, modernize equipment or make facility upgrades—but only select businesses are eligible. Click here to review all eligible NAICS codes. 



Your could be one of 88 businesses selected to receive this powerful funding boost to fuel what’s next. Applications close this week on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 5 p.m. CT. Learn more and apply today.

Help shape the 2026 Webinar Wednesday series

We want to hear from you! What webinar topics would you like to see next year? Take our quick poll below and help us tailor Webinar Wednesdays to your business needs.

2025 Webinar Wednesdays; Catch up anytime on YouTube!

From mastering AI tools to understanding your rights as a business owner, our 2025 Webinar Wednesdays series has covered the topics that matter most to small businesses.



Missed a session? You can replay a webinar and keep learning from our expert collaborators anytime on YouTube.

Upcoming events

Berwyn Shops: Now accepting 2026 vendor applications

Calling all entrepreneurs, local makers and artisans! The Berwyn Shops is now seeking applications for its 2026 cohort of vendors. 

Located in vibrant Berwyn, IL, the Berwyn Shops is an 8-month retail incubator and mentorship program designed for small businesses that are ready to test the market before launching a full storefront. Applications are open through January 4, 2026. Learn more or sign up for an upcoming informational session at www.berwynshops.com.

Brookfield Shops unveils Cook County Arts Creative Placemaking project

Brookfield Shops, a retail incubator that debuted this year, unveiled nine pieces of art on Oct. 31 that are supported by a Cook County Arts Creative Placemaking grant. This art will beautify an incubator that features six businesses that operate out of mini storefronts at Progress Park, located at 9202 Broadway Ave., in Brookfield, from June-December. Grant funding will also support the renovation of the Brookfield Shops courtyard.

KPGS Consulting supports Brookfield Shops and is also leading the creation of a retail incubator in South Holland set to open in 2026. Learn more in this Chicago Tribune/Daily Southtown article.