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Industry Specific

Retail and Franchise Initiative


With the support of the Partnership for New Communities, the WBDC launched its Retail and Franchise Initiative to address the growing demand for services and information in the retail and franchise industries.  The Retail and Franchise Initiative is open to all prospective retail and franchise entrepreneurs, with a special emphasis on businesses in Bronzeville, the South Loop, and the Near West Side.

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Targeted Workshops and Seminars   

Building and Maintaining a Retail Operation – This three-workshop series gives participants a quick and simple road map to becoming a successful retailer.     

The Franchise Track: Finding and Selecting a Franchise that is Right for You – A two-workshop series that provides an overview of franchising.  

Business Coaching

WBDC business counselors meet with clients individually to work through issues, discuss and develop strategies, and enhance managerial skills.  Please call 312.853.3477 X 0 to schedule an appointment.

Events and Networking Opportunities  

Advisory Panel – The Retail and Franchise Advisory Panel reviews business plans, helps established retail businesses increase profitability, and addresses specific retail and franchise issues.  Please contact Liz Gardner, Program Director at 312.853.3477 X 59 or egardner@wbdc.org for more information.   

Referrals to Specialized Business Professionals – We've assembled a group of experienced professionals in a variety of fields, including accountants, lawyers, graphic designers, and sales consultants. For referral information, please contact the WBDC at 312.853.3477 X 0 or wbdc@wbdc.org 

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Child Care Business Program


The Child Care Business Program was launched in 1999 and continues to lead the field by providing a full range of business services to prospective and existing child care entrepreneurs, including home- and center-based.  We offer all classes and counseling in both English and Spanish.

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Targeted Workshops and Seminars   

“Developing Your Child Care Business”  - This 10-week workshop series supplies the tools aspiring and established business owners need to launch and sustain a child care business.  Participants follow a step-by-step process to develop a business and marketing plan, compile lists of policies and procedures, write a parent handbook and gain a firm understanding of business financials.  Please click here for complete workshop descriptions and to register.  

Business Coaching  

Business Counseling – Our counselors meet clients individually to work through issues, discuss and develop strategies, and enhance managerial skills. To schedule an appointment, please call 312.853.3477 X 0

Special Events and Networking Opportunities   

Child Care Business Expo – This annual event offers an array of business workshops presented by experienced child care providers and WBDC business experts. All participants -- newcomers and annual attendees -- enjoy lively presentations, state-of-the-art industry information, networking, and exclusive access to industry vendors. All of the day's events are presented in English and Spanish.  Please click here for more information and to register.

 Specialized Assistance    

Referrals to Specialized Business Professionals – The WBDC has expanded its resources to established professionals experienced with small businesses, including accountants, lawyers, graphic designers, and sales consultants. For referral information, please contact the WBDC at 312.853.3477 X 0 or wbdc@wbdc.org

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