IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2024
CONTACT:
Hareder McDowell (312.742.2734)
Hareder.McDowell@cityofchicago.org
Chicago (May 28, 2024)—City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin today announced the Chicago Treasurer’s Office’s (CTO) launch of the Chicago Star Award, an initiative dedicated to recognizing and uplifting small businesses that play such a pivotal role in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of Chicago.
The Chicago Star Award aims to highlight the remarkable contributions of small businesses in Chicago and foster community involvement by inviting members of the public to nominate local establishments that contribute to the vibrancy of their communities.
“As the City Treasurer, I am proud to introduce the Chicago Star Award, which celebrates the resilience, innovation, and dedication of our city’s small businesses,” said Conyears-Ervin. “Small businesses are the backbone of our city’s economy, providing nearly half of all jobs and contributing significantly to the well-being and vitality of our diverse communities. This award is more than just an accolade—it represents a commitment to nurture our local economy and celebrate the ways that entrepreneurship can lead to a more prosperous future.”
The CTO will provide resources to the winners to help enhance their visibility, marketing, and overall success. Additionally, awardees will gain access to exclusive business workshops facilitated by the CTO’s community partners, covering essential topics like financial management, digital marketing, and growth strategies. Recipients will also receive a special invitation to the fourth annual Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow Financial Education and Empowerment Summit at the UIC Forum on October 12, where they will find networking opportunities and further professional development.
To be eligible, businesses must operate within the City of Chicago, be registered with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP), and have no outstanding delinquent debt or felonies. Additionally, nominated businesses must not currently be engaged in business with the Chicago Treasurer’s Office in any capacity, nor be a franchise or a large business with more than 500 employees.
Nominations for the Chicago Star Award will open on May 25 and remain open until 11:59 p.m. Central on September 2, 2024. To submit a nomination or learn more, visit. www.chicagocitytreasurer.com/chicagostars.
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