2025 Southside Connection Symposium

This year’s Southside Connection Symposium will focus on exploring the South Side advantage—why the South Side is a uniquely powerful place to live, work, and do business. The Symposium, themed “Connect. Collaborate. Thrive.,” will highlight opportunities for business development, reveal shifts in the local marketplace, and spotlight transformative investments in the southeast Chicago commercial corridor.

Keynote Conversation

Unlocking the South Side Advantage

This conversation explores how the South Side’s unique assets, energy, and investments can be leveraged to fuel business growth and economic resilience. Guest speakers will inform the audience about the opportunities presented by new developments, the power of cross-sector collaboration, and strategies to ensure that growth is inclusive and community-centered. What needs to happen to propel the South Side forward into its next level of thriving—for businesses, residents, and the region at large?

Public Sector Panel

The Power of Connection & Collaboration: A Conversation with Local Elected Officials

The Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC) will moderate this insightful “State of the State” Aldermanic forum featuring a conversation about how South Side businesses can develop stronger ties and strategic partnerships. This panel will explore collaborative opportunities to achieve mutual growth, amplify community impact, and navigate the evolving landscape of Chicago’s South Side for collective success.

Elliot Richardson, the Co-Founder and President of the Small Business Advocacy Council,
will lead the discussion with a special selection of Southside Chicago elected officials:

• Pat Dowell, 3^rd Ward
• Lamont Robinson, 4^th Ward
• Desmon Yancy, 5^th Ward
• Jeanette Taylor, 20^th Ward