After persistent support from the SBAC to legalize sandwich signs, in June 2021, Chicago Alderman voted to adopt a new policy on sandwich signs, which will go into effect NEXT WEEK. On March 1, 2022, Chicago small businesses can officially use “A-frame” or sandwich signs on the sidewalk to drive foot traffic into their stores. This win will both help local businesses attract customers and add to the overall vibrancy of our neighborhoods. Click here to learn more about permit applications and costs.
For 7 years, the SBAC and a robust coalition of business and community organizations had been fighting to reduce the time it takes for small businesses to obtain a sign or other public way use permit. And thanks to the SBAC’s tenacity, the City of Chicago answered that call. On July 21, 2021, the SBAC was able to deliver a big win to the small business community with the Chicago City Council’s decision to eliminate full city council approval for public way use permits.
REVITALIZATION IN THE NEWS: West Garfield/Chatham Pop!
“The activation of underutilized West and South side properties is a key strategy to revitalize neighborhood commercial corridors with active, people-oriented activities,” Commissioner Cox said. The City of Chicago announced on Thursday, the creation of two new public plazas located in West Garfield Park and Chatham. These projects are a part of the Department of…
You’re Invited to The Rebound!
The SBAC and A Safe Haven are thrilled to invite you for a LIVE and IN-PERSON evening you won’t forget! It will be our first big live event of the year, and with the mask mandate now lifted, we hope to see many of you face-to-face once again. Join us to celebrate the culmination…
Back to Business Grants Action Call
Illinois Policymakers Should Support Small Businesses The pandemic and COVID-19 mitigations began inflicting immense damage to small businesses in March 2020. Thousands of small businesses initially applied for Illinois Business Interruption Grants. While these grants helped some small businesses, approximately 80% of applicants were not awarded a grant. Illinois then received over $8 billion in…
