This year, Loyola University Chicago’s Baumhart Center, the Institute for Racial Justice, Loyola University Chicago, and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce worked together to organize the Impact Through Alliance Series—a citywide exploration of how business, policy, and community leaders can come together to build stronger, more inclusive economies.

Through immersive neighborhood tours in Englewood, Rogers Park, and Little Village, led by Chicago historian and storyteller Dilla, participants saw firsthand how history, entrepreneurship, and collaboration transform local economies. Each visit concluded with a panel discussion featuring local business owners, community leaders, and researchers, surfacing both the pressing challenges and the powerful possibilities of neighborhood-based economic development.

A central theme emerged from this discussion: the power of storytelling. Historically, media narratives have portrayed Englewood through a negative lens, obscuring the creativity and resilience of its residents. Panelists urged attendees to counter those misconceptions by sharing stories of progress and pride. From thriving local shops to youth-driven programs like Crushers Club, there are a lot more positive stories to be celebrated.

This conversation also highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure investment and consistent political support from city government officials post-election.

Panelists discussed the realities of small business ownership, from the need for mental health support and relief from burnout to the importance of equitable pricing and inclusive hiring. RPBA shared its hands-on approach to meeting those needs: licensing support, bilingual entrepreneurial training through Grow/Progresando, and consultant-matching to help underserved businesses.

A recurring insight was the impact of anchor institutions like Loyola University Chicago, which strengthens community ties through shared retail spaces, services, and initiatives such as Lake Shore Community Partners.

Panelists highlighted the family-owned businesses that have been the heart and soul of this neighborhood for decades. They play a vital role in the local economy and culture, passing down traditions, creating jobs, and shaping one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

The conversation underscored the importance of showing up and supporting local business owners as they navigate social and economic change and hardships, reminding us that the city’s strength lies in its communities.

This conversation identified shared priorities across Chicago neighborhoods: supporting small businesses, expanding access to capital, investing in infrastructure, positive storytelling, and fostering local collaboration.

As Steven Shaw quoted, “It’s not about quotas – it's about doing business.” These panelists argued that true impact requires intentional partnerships that move beyond symbolic gestures, and that channel real resources and support to local and minority-owned businesses.

Sustaining the Alliance

Across all three neighborhoods, one truth was clear: real impact comes through sustained alliance. Economic vibrancy grows when corporate partners, universities, and communities invest in both people and places.

So, how can you help?

• Support local small businesses and encourage others to do the same.
• Share positive stories about Chicago's underserved communities.
• Support policies and initiatives that prioritize small-business investment.
• Elect leaders who actively support the community.
• Plan your own visit to these neighborhoods to experience their vibrancy firsthand.

Thank you to everyone who made this series possible. Together, we can ensure that every neighborhood has the opportunity to thrive.

Resources for small business owners

• Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready Program
• Rogers Park Business Alliance, Grow/Progresando
• Tech Rise by P33
• Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
• 1871 – Independent Innovation Hub