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Over 30 nonprofit organizations have joined the Cook County Small Business Source as referral partners for 2025, according to an announcement from the program. Seven of these partners are participating for the first time.
These organizations will work with The Source through November 15, 2025, connecting small businesses across Cook County to free business advising, resources, and events. The Source is a county-run program designed to support entrepreneurs at no cost.
“The Source has become a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs throughout the County looking to take their business to the next level,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Referral partners play a critical role in ensuring all business owners across the County have access to available resources while helping advance our commitment to equity by engaging diverse communities.”
The referral partners offer support in several languages and focus on serving suburban areas of Cook County. As nonprofit organizations working directly with businesses, they help link local companies to services and promote regular events such as Webinar Wednesday, which takes place on the last Wednesday of each month.
Businesses connected through referral partners gain access to a network that includes 13 Business Support Organizations offering customized advising. Since its creation in 2021, The Source has assisted more than 31,000 businesses.
Advisors provide guidance on business planning, reaching new customers, applying for grants and loans, and evaluating readiness for government contracting.
Pursuit, a Chicago-based group focused on providing low-interest loans and resources for small businesses, is among the new referral partners this year.
“We’re excited to help Cook County entrepreneurs access the capital, expert guidance and hands-on advisory support they need to launch, grow and thrive,” said Alex Felton, vice president, senior business development officer at Pursuit. “This partnership allows us to connect more small business owners with loans and resources that turn big ideas into real opportunities.”
The Arab-American Business and Professional Association (ABPA), based in Palos Heights, returns as a referral partner.
“Returning as a Source referral partner is instrumental to our ability to provide in-depth support to Arab Americans who dream of starting or growing a business," said ABPA President Rush Darwish. "The unique services The Source offers our clients are invaluable, and we’re grateful for their partnership and the opportunities for success they bring to our community.”
According to an impact survey conducted in 2024 among Source clients, most reported positive experiences: seventy percent credited their advisors with helping them create clear action plans; sixty-three percent said their needs were met; and eighty percent would recommend The Source’s services.
A complete list of current referral partners can be found at cookcountysmallbiz.org.
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development established The Source in 2020 as part of its response to challenges facing businesses during COVID-19. More information about free business advising or upcoming events is available at cookcountysmallbiz.org.
