The Source

About the Cook County Small Business Source

The Cook County Small Business Source strives to support, grow and elevate small businesses, the backbone of Cook County’s economy. This program directly connects small business owners with expert guidance and support to take businesses to the next level. Cook County established the award-winning program to ensure that businesses emerge from COVID-19 intact and positioned for growth. A commitment to equity serves as the North Star for the program which provides access to government grants, loans and resources, and fosters growth for small businesses historically excluded including Black-, Indigenous-, People of Color- (BIPOC), Veteran-, Women-, LQBTQ+ and persons with disabilities-owned businesses.

Overview of Services

The Cook County Small Business Source features a network of over 30 organizations dedicated to supporting small businesses in any stage of development. This model of support prioritizes getting businesses the help they need when they need it. In addition to one-on-one advising services, the program also provides free toolkits, webinars and timely online resources and information for small businesses. Advising services and resources cover topics:

  • Building a business plan for your startup or growing business

  • Finding the right financing source for your needs

  • Getting your business ready to apply for funding

  • Marketing your business through digital and traditional methods

  • Accessing new customers online

  • …And much more

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