CHICAGO — Today, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Small Business Capacity Building Program. Through this RFP, the City will select one organization to serve as the administrator of the $3.5M Small Business Capacity Building Program. This organization is expected to design and implement a comprehensive capacity building program for small businesses. This includes conducting assessments, providing customized coaching and offering access to professional service consultations in areas like legal, finance, marketing and human resources. This program is fully funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is part of Mayor Johnson’s Road to Recovery Plan via the Small Business Support initiative.

"Small businesses are the engine that drives our City's economy, and they deserve the support they need to thrive," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The Small Business Capacity Building Program will equip businesses with the tools and resources to overcome challenges, increase efficiency and ultimately create jobs."

“By providing customized coaching and consultations, the Small Business Capacity Building Program aims to build upon existing strengths and close operational gaps," said BACP Acting Commissioner Ivan Capifali. "Through this program, the City’s goal is to empower small businesses to thrive in the post-pandemic environment and become even more resilient."

Requests for Proposal submissions must be completed by October 15, at 12:00 PM CDT (NOON). Those interested in learning more about this RFP can register for the pre submittal conference taking place on Tuesday, September 24 at 12:00 PM CDT. The pre submittal conference is optional, but highly encouraged. For information about this RFP and pre-submittal conference, please visit Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan. To view these RFPs, visit the City’s eProcurement website and search by RFP #10383.

To learn more about BACP’s Recovery Plan efforts, please visit Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan.

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