World Business Chicago

As the DNC comes to a close, we’re reflecting on a week that put Chicago’s energy, culture, and economic strengths in the global spotlight. To kick off the week, we hosted A Toast to Chicago’s Business & Culture at the Adler Planetarium, bringing together national business leaders who were in town for the convention. More than just networking, our event showcased Chicago’s comprehensive approach to growth—from corporate recruitment and workforce development to equity initiatives and strategic partnerships. Check out this week’s Business Pulse newsletter for key insights and stats that position Chicago as a top destination for businesses ready to thrive. #WhyChicago #DNCChicago #EconomicDevelopment

🌇 Happy Megaproject Monday! 🌇 What's the deal with all that construction on Clark & Lake? It's the redesign of the Thompson Center, a $280 million investment to turn the once state government and food court building into Google's fully-electric Midwest HQ! Developers and designers agree that the re-design is more of a re-building - say goodbye to the red and blue palette, and hello to a triple-paned glass exterior (don't worry, the sun-lit atrium is staying). What's also staying is access to the CTA Clark & Lake stop - the second busiest stop in the loop! The plans aren't just to keep the amenities Chicagoans have known the Thompson Center for - from the CTA, to the food court - they're aiming for a total improvement, with new greenspaces, more natural light, and more retailers on a ground-floor designed to be a dedicated third-space. What do you think of the redesign? Are you excited for a new gathering space in Chicago? Sad that Snoopy in a Blender's gone? We want to know, Chicago!

Today marks the culmination of a historic week for Chicago—our city's first Democratic National Convention in nearly 20 years. High-profile events like these generate momentum that extends beyond the immediate spotlight, bringing heightened visibility, increased business activity, and long-term economic growth. Cities often see substantial economic impacts from hosting political conventions, typically ranging from tens to hundreds of millions of dollars. Choose Chicago, in collaboration with the DNC, will lead a post-convention economic study, which is expected to be completed in October. A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated hospitality workers in our hotels, at the United Center, and across the city for providing phenomenal service to our visitors this week. Kudos to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling, and all of law enforcement for their seamless planning and execution. A heartfelt thank you to Christy George, Executive Director of the DNC, along with the incredible staff, volunteers, and civic and business partners, who showcased the very best of #Chicago. Together, we delivered a flawless week that will yield dividends for years to come. Now it’s up to all of us to carry forward the message that Chicago is home to big ideas, big events, and big thinkers—a true global hub for business growth, innovation, and opportunity.#DNC2024

Congratulations to our board member company, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, on strengthening its M&A practice by adding a top team led by Edward Best! Chicago continues to dominate in the mergers and acquisitions space, and it’s exciting to see Willkie investing in this area and building on the deep bench of talent we have here. With nearly 100 lawyers in its Chicago office, Willkie is well-positioned to support the city’s robust M&A activity and capitalize on new opportunities.

Chicago’s diversity and the strength of its small business community took center stage at the Democratic National Convention this week. Local companies like Glenn Charles, Jr.’s Show Strategies, Juan Teague's Juan and Only LLC, and Brook Jay’s All Terrain, played pivotal roles in bringing the DNC to life. This strong coalition of diverse, women and minority-owned businesses exemplifies the city’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and the collaborative spirit that is driving strong economic opportunity across the city and region. Well done 👏 Glenn, Juan, Brook, and all the others representing our beloved city this week. #ChicagoProud

Today, mHUB 's Innovation House event encapsulated everything great about Chicago's innovation and talent ecosystem - the power of industry leaders and up-and-coming innovators to coalesce, learn, and build. The 'open-house' at mHUB's HQ featured over 50 startups giving presentations and demonstrations of their products. Attendees and founders alike convened for an invaluable keynote between mHUB Chief Experience Officer Melissa Lederer and YouTube Co-founder Steve Chen, who shared insights and advice for start-up founders. WBC Chief Strategy Officer Abin Kuriakose joined mHUB COO Manas Mehandru, Illinois Manufacturers' Association CEO Mark Denzler, and P33 Chicago CMO Tifair Hamed to kick-off the speaking portion of the event. We give our deepest appreciation to mHUB CEO Haven Allen, and all of the entrepreneurs and partner organizations that continue to put Chicago's innovation powerhouse on full display throughout this DNC week! See more photos of the event: https://bit.ly/3WXR4Ol

Last night, we proudly hosted “A Toast to Chicago’s Business & Culture” at the Adler Planetarium kicking off DNC week in Chicago. The event was more than just a celebration—it was economic development in action. We brought together the very people driving Chicago’s growth, including members of the committee that pitched Chicago to the DNC, key partners, and economic development prospects. Our “Chicago is Open for Business” showcase was a centerpiece of the night, spotlighting why Chicago is the top choice for starting, expanding, or relocating a business. The CEOs and companies present represent billions in economic activity and thousands of jobs, directly impacting the future of our city and region. This gathering wasn’t just about networking; it was about propelling Chicago forward. We’re making sure that as the world’s eyes are on Chicago this week, people know that Chicago isn’t just open for business—it’s leading the way in innovation and growth. We’re excited to continue the conversations sparked last night with business leaders, economic prospects, and partners. Know a business that could benefit from Chicago’s diverse economy, skilled workforce, and engaged business ecosystem? Send us a DM, or contact us at our website: https://bit.ly/4duQKgW — we’re ready to connect and make things happen! For more photos, check out our Flickr, and stay tuned on our socials - https://lnkd.in/gvgb3me3

If you're in town for the Democratic National Convention, welcome to #Chicago. We’d love to connect. DM us to discover why Chicago is the top destination for starting, growing, and relocating your business. From vibrant neighborhoods to our thriving downtown and business districts, there’s no better time to explore available opportunities and see why so many companies call Chicago home. With perfect weather—sunshine and highs in the 70s all week—it’s the ideal time to experience our city’s dynamic economy, available spaces, and vibrant local businesses.

Are you tuning in tonight watch the Democratic National Convention? Over the next four days, members of the Democratic party will take to the stage to give speeches and present their platform live from The United Center - led by Presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running-mate, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota. Whether you're attending the Convention, or simply commuting to work, it is important for everyone in Chicago to be informed - Visit the City of Chicago 's official page for DNC public safety: Complete with news updates, impacted city areas, traffic updates, public transit, mobile notifications, and more: https://bit.ly/3yz2C2g

The Galway Committee of CSCI had the pleasure of hosting the annual Mayor of Galway Delegation to Chicago this week! Led by Mayor Peter Keane, the delegation visited a variety of organizations to discuss topics such as workforce development, life sciences and med tech, youth engagement, and housing. The visit was capped by a reception co-hosted with the University of Galway for an Alumni event to welcome the delegation at the Irish American Heritage Center. Thank you to partners and individuals like the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, MATTER Chicago, After School Matters, Enterprise Ireland, Shapack Partners, Shoreline Cruises and World Business Chicago's own Tana and Rebecca for making this a successful visit!