We are laser-focused on fighting for policies that support small businesses because they drive our economy, create jobs and support local communities. We are looking to close 2024 strong and continue building momentum in 2025. 

Our state legislative agenda includes increasing the access small businesses have to tax incentives and implementing a law requiring state agencies to assess the impact new rules will have on small businesses. We also understand escalating property taxes hurt small businesses and will advocate for real solutions. There will be more on our agenda! Check out our website to learn more about our advocacy efforts here!

We continue galvanizing stakeholders and policymakers around the Chicago Small Business Package. This package of reforms will streamline processes and eliminate barriers that impact Chicago small businesses and local communities.

The package has now been endorsed by 26 Alders and 36 business organizations. We are working to have an ordinance filed to eliminate burdensome zoning requirements soon. Click here to view the small business package.

Policymakers enhanced the tax credits available to small businesses that hire formerly incarcerated individuals from 5% to 15% of qualified wages and raised the ceiling from $1,500 to $7,500. This will support small businesses struggling to hire employees, create opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals, proactively improve public safety and reduce the costs of recidivism. We expect to share more information about these enhances tax credits shortly. 

We are also excited to highlight the Third Fair Chance Hiring Cohort, which will launch in the winter of 2025. Learn more about this impactful program, led by the Corporate Coalition of Chicago and their partners, which connects business leaders interested in learning more about the benefits of hiring individuals with records, best practices and more. Learn more here and join a virtual info session on 10/24 here!

The SBAC has been working hard with our partners to engage policymakers while also creating opportunities for folks to connect. Recently we had a great bipartisan event with NAWBO Chicago and state legislators. You can see the photos here! We partnered with the Greater Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry on a legislative forum and the photos are here. You can find our upcoming events at this link.

Thank you all for supporting the SBAC and the small business community.