BACP-Neighborhood Business Network - Business Support

The City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) is soliciting proposals for business support services under the Neighborhood Business Network (NBN) program, with proposals due November 6, 2026. The program prioritizes engagement with minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, and businesses located in economically disadvantaged areas.

The scope encompasses business counseling, training workshops, financial literacy programs, market research support, and networking facilitation designed to strengthen neighborhood commercial corridors and support business growth and retention. The selected vendor must demonstrate capacity to serve multiple neighborhood locations and maintain accessibility for diverse business populations, including those with limited English proficiency.

The contract term extends for one year from execution, with potential renewal options subject to performance evaluation and budget availability. Compensation is structured according to the City's prevailing rates for similar business support services. The service provider will be expected to maintain service delivery standards and performance metrics as defined by BACP. Funding derives from City of Chicago appropriations and may include leveraged resources from state or federal economic development programs.

Specific response deadlines beyond the November 6 proposal due date, site visits, and bidder conferences will be determined by the City through subsequent solicitation documents.