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Is it really December already? It’s hard to believe that 2024 is almost over, but time flies when you’re busy, and here at The Source, there's never a lull when supporting small businesses. In 2024, The Source celebrated $50 million in small business grants, collaborated on more than 150 events with our partners, and reached more than 7,500 businesses through business advising and events.

As 2024 comes to a close, we’re excited to help small business owners take advantage of the holiday shopping season–and we’re looking forward to 2025. 

Celebrating Cook County Entrepreneurs in 2024

At The Source, we champion small business owners–the driving force of our economy–and are guided by the belief that anyone can become a successful business owner with the proper access to support and resources. 

These statistics only capture part of the story, however. 

This year, we made it our mission to highlight the stories of resilient Cook County small business owners who have strengthened their businesses with resources from The Source. 

We spoke with 2023 Source Grant awardees such as Latrice Wright, a dedicated restaurateur from Hazel Crest, IL, who is passionate about providing healthy and innovative food options for her community. With the support of business advising from the Southland Development Authority, Latrice recently expanded her vision, launching a second restaurant concept to serve even more customers.

We also connected with other small business owners who have built dynamic, trusting relationships with their business advisors. Angel Emmanuel Diaz Alcantara, the owner and operator of Frida Room in Chicago, IL, described his connection with Uriel Mendez of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as more than professional—it’s personal. "I can call him whenever I need him," Angel shared, emphasizing the invaluable support that helps fuel his entrepreneurial journey.

To learn more about the inspiring stories of the small business owners we serve, visit our news page.

The Source x WBDC: Work Smarter, Not Harder in 2025!

Don’t miss the grand finale of The Source x WBDC Webinar Series!

This impactful series has equipped small business owners with expert insights on credit, marketing, grants, and access to capital.

In this final session, learn how to unlock your business’ “sweet spot” for 2025—a place where everything aligns, and growth becomes second nature.

Join us as we guide you through:

• “Sweet spot” strategies for sustainable growth.
• How to identify your top clients and maximize their impact.
• Tools like the Return on Payroll Calculator to optimize time and resources.



Make 2025 your most productive and efficient year yet. Join us to set your business up for success!

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

10:00 - 11:00 AM CT

Upcoming events

Shop small, support local

Shopping local doesn’t just support small businesses—it strengthens our community. By keeping your dollars close to home, you help create local wealth, generate jobs, and fuel opportunities for small businesses to thrive.

Looking for local shopping inspiration? Explore these curated collections of Source-supported small businesses and find something special this season!

Berwyn Development Corporation: Berwyn Shops - Open through December 15th, Berwyn Shops is a one-stop-shopping destination guaranteed to have a gift for whoever is on your list! Interested in joining the 2025 cohort of vendors? Learn more and attend an upcoming information session here.

Allies for Community Business: Marketplace - Pulling from their vast array of business advising clientele, A4CB’s Marketplace is your local digital shopping destination. Discover small businesses guaranteed to become favorites from the comfort of your home!

There are many more free ways to support local! Discover a few below:

• Stay Connected – Keep up with your favorite small businesses online! It’s simple: follow them on social media, engage with their posts, and subscribe to their newsletters for exclusive promotions, updates, and more!
• Word-of-Mouth – One of the best ways to support a small business is by spreading the word! Share your favorite local spots with coworkers, friends, and family—your recommendation can make all the difference.
• Write a Review – Your 5-star review could be the nudge someone needs to try a local favorite. If you've had an amazing experience, don't hesitate to share it! Your feedback could make all the difference and help others discover what makes this spot so special.