Chicago, IL – The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Loyola University Chicago’s Quinlan School of Business, launched the second annual Chicagoland Small Business Economic Outlook Survey. Click here to take the survey.
“Given the vital role small businesses play in creating jobs and anchoring communities in Chicagoland, this study will help us better understand the expectations and pain points of local small businesses and entrepreneurs and help shape Chamber programs and policies to best suit the needs of those companies,” said Katie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of Programs, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.
The survey focuses on Chicago’s small businesses—their goals for success; the challenges they face; and the issues that matter most to them. The information gathered will include demographic data, public policy concerns, hiring plans, growth trends, economic outlooks and an overview of what types of resources and services small businesses and entrepreneurs currently utilize or would like to see available.
Graduate marketing students within the Quinlan School of Business helped develop the survey questions and will provide analysis based on the findings.
“We are thrilled with the successful partnership between our business students and the Chicagoland Chamber. It is projects such as this that offer real-world experience for our students; experience that is invaluable in today’s business climate,” said Janet V. Deatherage, Ph.D., Executive Director, Office of Corporate Engagement, Loyola University Chicago.
Last year’s inaugural Chicagoland small business survey was instrumental in providing direction for the Chamber’s small business programming. Nearly one-third of respondents were seeking access to capital, more than half needed help in market research and marketing plans, and 45 percent needed technology support. Through small business programs and the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Chicagoland Chamber, the Chamber was able to provide resources and support in those specific areas through educational events, office hours and partnerships with local organizations.
“Through this partnership with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, our students solved business challenges in one of the most dynamic and complex markets in the country,” said Dr. Alex Krasnikov, Quinlan School of Business, Loyola University Chicago. “Such partnerships are unique to Quinlan as they boost the value of business intelligence for our future business leaders.”
Several partners are contributing to the 2015 Chicagoland Small Business Outlook Survey, including the Better Business Bureau, Constant Contact, Illinois CPA Society and the Office of the City Treasurer.
About the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce combines the power of people with our legacy of leadership and business advocacy to drive a dynamic economy. We focus on delivering value for our members, making Chicagoland a world-class place to live and work. Visit ChicagolandChamber.org.