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.
Illinois Announces Back To Business Grant Program – SBAC Testifies at Joint Committee Hearing
Back to Business Grant Program AUG 13th – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity launched the Back to Business grant program for struggling small businesses on Wednesday. On August 12th, the SBAC participated in a joint Illinois Senate hearing to learn more about the program. We explained how important it is for the…
How small businesses are being impacted by the rise in COVID-19 cases
Elliot Richardson, co-founder and president of the Small Business Advocacy Council, joins Anna Davlantes to talk about how small businesses are being impacted by the Delta variant and COVID-19 cases rising around the country. Has there been enough support to keep our small businesses running throughout the pandemic? Please translate this page to the language of…
IACCE Chamber Call with Senate President Harmon
IACCE Chamber Call with Senate President Harmon The SBAC and Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives hosted Senate President Harmon, Senator Castro and Senator Sims for a broad discussion about how the small business community and Illinois Senate can work together. There has never been a more important time to advocate for the small…