Our Shops
Strengthening Small Businesses and Commercial Corridors
Small businesses are the economic and cultural heartbeat of Chicago’s neighborhoods. Yet many commercial corridors face overlapping challenges—from pandemic recovery to immigration enforcement that discourages customers and workers from participating in local economies.
Our Shops supports neighborhood businesses through financial relief, outreach and resource sharing, technical assistance and coordinated local campaigns that strengthen commercial districts.
By sustaining these corridors, the initiative protects jobs, preserves cultural identity, and promotes vibrant and safe neighborhoods.
Key Initiatives
• Corridor Relief Fund for small businesses
• Coordinated “Shop Local” campaigns
• Business education and information sharing
• Advocacy to public and philanthropic sectors on small business needs
“Small business owners were already preparing for the slow winter season and navigating increasingly narrow profit margins when the neighborhood was targeted by ICE, causing them to lose both customers and staff. These funds immediately went toward urgent expenses they had fallen behind on, like rent and utility payments. Many were surprised this much needed support came as a grant, not a loan, and through a process that was simple and accessible.”
-Mario Garcia, Onward Neighborhood House