Chicago's Bold Move to Boost Small Businesses

Chicago is taking big steps to help small businesses. The city wants to make it easier for them to open and run their shops. This is important because many small business owners are struggling right now. The mayor, Brandon Johnson, announced a new plan called "Cut The Tape for Small Business. " This plan aims to cut down on the complicated rules and processes that make it hard for businesses to start and grow. The mayor said this plan will help the city work better with entrepreneurs. This announcement came on Small Business Saturday, which is a day to support local shops. It's been over a year since a group called the Small Business Advocacy Council asked for changes to these rules. Many business groups and city leaders supported their ideas. Elliot Richardson, the head of the Small Business Advocacy Council, said he's happy the mayor is focusing on this issue. But he also said that small businesses have been waiting too long for real changes. He wants politicians to act now and make it easier for businesses to open and grow. The city has some specific goals to help small businesses. They want to make it easier to get licenses and permits by using digital tools. They also want to create a map that shows where businesses can operate. This will help business owners understand the rules better. The plan also includes other support, like teaching entrepreneurs how to use technology and offering education programs. The city wants to help small businesses succeed in many ways. This initiative is part of a bigger plan to cut down on red tape for both businesses and residents. It's important because many small businesses are struggling with high costs and other challenges. Last month, nearly 20 businesses met with a U. S. representative to talk about their struggles. They included places like Volumes Bookcafe and Oro Chocolate. Amanda Kezios, the owner of Mojo Spa, said that anything that makes things easier for small businesses is a good thing. The city's Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection is leading this initiative. Kezios has attended meetings where business owners share their challenges. She said many of the issues raised in these meetings are being addressed in the new plan.