Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

Illinois’ proposed digital ad tax could raise costs on the very businesses that rely on it most, while also creating significant legal uncertainty for the state. The Chicagoland Chamber is urging lawmakers to reject the proposal, citing its regressive impact on small businesses and high risk of prolonged litigation. Watch Carl Gutierrez, Chicagoland Chamber VP of Government Relations, break it down on Fox 32 Chicago’s ChicagoLIVE: https://bit.ly/3RBNTwM

Chamber Urges Lawmakers to Reject Digital Ad Tax Impacting Small Businesses - Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Government Relations Carl Gutierrez recently appeared on Fox 32 Chicago’s ChicagoLIVE to discuss a proposed digital advertising tax under consideration in Illinois. The policy is designed to generate revenue by taxing large digital

Memorial Day weekend marks the start of the Chicago Private Yacht Rentals season, elevating Navy Pier Fireworks shows with pampered private yachting experiences aboard Adeline’s Sea Moose.

▶️ Learn more: https://bit.ly/3RV8qfC

Chicago Private Yacht Rentals: Adeline's Sea Moose

Lollapalooza is investing in Chicago’s youth with a $1.7 million donation to Chicago Public Schools, expanding access to arts education across the district. 👏

Part of a five-year commitment, the funding supports both in-school programs and afterschool opportunities in music, dance, and theater. The gift is one of the largest CPS has received for arts programming and brings Lollapalooza’s total support to $3.9 million since 2021, helping more students explore and develop their creative potential.

Join us on Wednesday, May 20 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM for “From Access to Scale: Supplier Diversity, Procurement, and AAPI Entrepreneurship,” hosted by the Chicagoland Chamber’s Emerging Leaders UNITY Program. 🌆

In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, this conversation will explore what it really takes for AAPI-owned businesses to grow and scale in Chicago, from supplier diversity and procurement pathways to partnerships, visibility, and long-term opportunity.

Moderated by Megan Nakano, Executive Director of the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois, the panel features:

• David Su, CEO of Oak Barrel Corporation
• Shama K. Patari, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Lenovo
• Tuan Huynh, Founder & Owner of VietFive Coffee

The discussion will cover supplier readiness, navigating institutional buyers, building credibility, and turning connections into long-term growth opportunities.

Plus, stay after for a rooftop reception with VietFive Coffee and continue the conversation with fellow leaders and professionals!

Register Now ▶️ https://bit.ly/4dLPrg4

The 2026 Chicagoland Small Business Outlook Survey is now live!

Small businesses drive our region’s economy, and we want to hear directly from you. This annual survey helps inform policymakers, partners, and business leaders about the real challenges and opportunities facing small businesses across Chicagoland.

✅ Open through July 2
🎁 Complete the survey for a chance to win roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets
📊 Your input helps shape programs, advocacy, and future research

▶️ Take the survey and make your voice count: https://bit.ly/4tIphzO

Two iconic Chamber members are doubling down on Chicago’s future.

The Chicago Fire and McDonald's announced a landmark naming rights partnership for the Fire’s new privately funded stadium at The 78, which will be known as McDonald’s Park.

The Chicagoland Chamber congratulates the Chicago Fire and McDonald’s on their landmark naming rights partnership, reflecting a shared commitment to Chicago’s economic growth and long‑term success.

▶️ Read the full story in the Chamber's newsroom: https://bit.ly/42xXHKf

3 Weeks Away: Chicago Leaders to Discuss the 1901 Project

Chicago’s business and civic leaders will gather on June 2 for the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce’s 122nd Annual Meeting of Membership.

The program will focus on the future of Chicagoland business, key challenges facing the city, and the opportunities shaping its growth.

A keynote fireside conversation with Danny Wirtz of the Chicago Blackhawks and Michael Reinsdorf of the Chicago Bulls will explore the 1901 Project and the long-term vision for the United Center area, including its impact on investment, community development, and Chicago’s West Side.

Individual tickets, tables, and sponsorship opportunities are still available!

Secure your spot today ▶️ https://bit.ly/4wrnQrN

Join Kids Above All for an evening of laughs, fun, and impact at their annual Stand Up For Kids Comedy Night!

On Thursday, June 11, at The Den Theatre in Chicago, this high‑energy comedy show will bring together supporters, partners, and friends for a great cause: helping young people and families served by Kids Above All build better lives.

Cocktail hour will be from 7 to 8 p.m. and the show will run from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $75, and include beer, wine and appetizers. The evening will also feature a raffle, with tickets available for purchase before and during the event. All proceeds directly benefit the children, young adults, and families in their programs.

Whether you participate by purchasing tickets, or supporting the event through sponsorship, your generosity makes a meaningful difference in our kids' lives — and you’ll have fun along the way. Get your tickets today at kidsaboveall.org/stand-up!

Check out these upcoming events and be part of Chicagoland’s business community. Connect with local leaders and discover opportunities to grow your business and expand your network. 📅Full calendar of events in the comments!