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Business & Economic Development

The West Humboldt Park Development Council is committed to improving the economy of West Humboldt Park by assisting retail and small business development.  Increased availability of local goods and services means that local dollars support and strengthen the local economy.  Business development leads to job creation and a more vibrant successful commercial corridor. 

We are working with local businesses to organizing the West Humboldt Park Business Association to take a lead role in assisting existing and start-up businesses by providing technical assistance, mentoring, and access to financing. We provide these services with the help of our strategic partners, which include Chicago Community Ventures, Accion-Chicago, Greater Northwest Chicago and others.

We provide business owners and commercial property owners with assistance with Small Business Improvement (SBIF) program, a City of Chicago TIF-based grant program designed to assist with building renovation which provides grants of up to $150,000 and up to 75% reimbursement for capital improvements.  We can provide information and assistance with the City of Chicago’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program, and assistance with other City services.  With our partners we provide mentoring and technical assistance to local businesses.  Our role is to help your business succeed.

The WHPDC and the WHPBA are working to revitalize the local economy by:

  • Bringing new businesses and jobs to the community
  • Facilitating access to banks and capital
  • Facilitating access to affordable housing
  • Promotion of Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program
  • Providing technical assistance and project management for SBIF grants
  • Assistance with acquisition of lots, buildings, and rental space
  • Providing support services to existing businesses
  • Technical assistance and mentoring to local businesses and entrepreneurs
  • Providing support and advocacy on behalf of the business community