Events

All events and webinars are open to everyone but intentionally target specific OMEE communities. Feel free to contact us at CEO.OMEE@illinois.gov if we don't answer your questions during our webinars or contact the First Stop Business Information Center Helpline at 1-800-252-2923. Spanish speaking assistance is available. 

Online with OMEE – Overview of Financial Resources for Small Businesses

Wednesday | July 3, 2024 | 10:00 – 11:00 AM

Is access to financial capital important for your business?

The Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE) Business Development Managers invite you to an online conversation that's open to all minorities ((racial/ethnic), women, persons with disabilities, veterans, and LGBTQIA+) and any other marginalized groups-owned businesses. Team OMEE will provide you with the latest updates on financial resources like federal and state programs, information about other opportunities, and answer any questions you may have about your business. We'll take questions in English and Spanish.

2nd Annual Latin@ Economic Summit - Rising Together: Empowering and Shaping the Future Strategically
Thursday | July 18, 2024 | 8:30 am – 1:30 pm | in-person | Register here (in English)
Malcolm X College - Conference Center. Chicago, IL

The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity through its Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE) Latinx Business Colectivo cordially invites you to the 2nd Annual Latin@ Economic Summit. The bilingual event will feature matchmaking opportunities for funding, guidance on building and sustaining business networks - scheduled networking opportunities, navigating certifications, and more. You will gain valuable information on marketing and crafting an elevator pitch for your business! Click here to register in Spanish.

Unlocking Funding Opportunities: A Comprehensive Guide to Grants for Small Businesses in Illinois
Monday | July 22, 2024 | 5:30 pm | In-person
SkyArt 3026 E 91^st Street Chicago, IL 60617

Join us for an informative session on the essential grants available for small businesses in Illinois. Learn everything you need to know about accessing funding, navigating the application process, and maximizing opportunities for your business growth. Don't miss out on this valuable resource to secure the financial support you need! Click here for the event flyer.

Business Smart Week 2024: Breaking Down Barriers to Business Equity

July 30^th and August 1^st | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | in-person
Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. 230 S LaSalle. Chicago, IL 60604

Business Smart Week features top business diversity leaders and experts that will provide diverse and small businesses with the tools to better manage and grow their business. This year's program will feature discussions with prominent minority business owners, corporate and non-profit CEOs on offering solutions to eliminating the barriers to diverse business growth. Click here to view the event flyer.