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BUSINESS NEWS

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The BACP Small Business Center is open to limited in-person visits. Masks and social distancing will be required, and remote consultations are still strongly encouraged. Visit this BACP site for updates.

 

The City of Chicago's Welcoming City Ordinance protects immigrant residents, regardless of their immigration status. The ordinance prevents City of Chicago agencies from inquiring about immigration status information, and importantly, guarantees that City of Chicago services are available to all individuals without discrimination based on immigration status.

 

Sidewalk cafe renewal applications are now being accepted. Applications can be submitted online via the permitting web portal through Friday, Febrary 28, 2025. Learn more here https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bacp/supp_info/sidewalkcafe.html

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Every July 1st Chicago’s minimum wage increases per the Minimum Wage Ordinance. Beginning July 1, 2024: 

  • The minimum wage will be $16.20.  

  • The minimum wage for subsidized youth employment programs, and subsidized transitional employment programs will be $15.00.  

  • The minimum wage will no longer be tiered for large and small businesses.   

To learn more about Chicago's Labor Laws, please visit Chicago.gov/LaborStandards.ds. 

 

BACP announced the launch of the new Chicago Business Center (CBC) Program. Through this new initiative, eight regional Chicago Business Centers have begun operating as hubs to provide business licensing assistance and other resources for small businesses in communities throughout the City. The eight Centers are open for virtual consultations with entrepreneurs today. visit Chicago.gov/CBC for more information.

 

Sidewalk signs will be allowed in the City of Chicago by obtaining a permit Effective March 1, 2025, sidewalk signs (e.g. A-frame, T-frame, or other temporary self-supporting type signs, placed on the public way) will be allowed in the City of Chicago by obtaining the proper City permit. Street-front businesses will now be able to use sidewalk signs to advertise their business safely and effectively from the sidewalk. The advertisement of services with sidewalk signs helps businesses draw in foot traffic from the street, providing an important boost to revenue. Permitting & Licensing web portal.

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