National Small Business Week, taking place May 3–9, 2026, is a time to recognize the entrepreneurs and small business owners who fuel Chicago’s economy and strengthen our neighborhoods.
For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has celebrated the critical contributions of small businesses nationwide. In Chicago, these businesses are especially vital, creating jobs, driving local investment, and shaping the character of our communities. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and small businesses generate approximately two out of every three new jobs each year.
National Small Business Week highlights the role entrepreneurs play in growing the economy, introducing new ideas, and building opportunity across industries. From family-owned shops to fast-growing startups, Chicago’s small businesses continue to demonstrate the impact of hard work, innovation, and resilience.
“As we celebrate National Small Business Week, we are recognizing the passion and perseverance behind every small business,” said Adrienne McFarland, Center Director of the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. “Small business owners are problem-solvers, job creators, and community builders, and they deserve continued investment and support.”
The Chicagoland Chamber’s SBDC supports small businesses at every stage by offering confidential, no-cost, one-on-one advising, guidance on accessing capital, business planning assistance, and educational workshops. Through partnerships with the Chamber, the SBDC delivers practical trainings designed to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain their businesses.
This week, the Chamber’s SBDC will host the Small Business Week Capital Readiness Pitch on May 7. Held at Wintrust Bank headquarters, this event features high-potential entrepreneurs presenting investment-ready pitches to a panel of access-to-capital leaders. The showcase highlights innovation, expands access to capital, and connects small business owners to resources and opportunities that can accelerate growth.
Next week, the focus shifts to building strong financial fundamentals with two SBDC workshops. On May 13, Credit 101: Building Credit, Building Freedom will explain how credit works and provide practical strategies for building and maintaining strong credit. On May 14, Managing Cash Flow: Practical Problem Solving will help business owners strengthen cash flow management, a critical skill for long-term business success.
The Chicagoland Chamber proudly celebrates Chicago’s entrepreneurs and remains committed to helping small businesses grow, compete, and succeed.