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At a ceremony at the Polsky Exchange, mentors, sponsors and participants came together to celebrate the completion of the program, which was extended from 10 weeks to nine months this year.
The Polsky Small Business Growth Program was launched in 2017 to support the growth and success of businesses on Chicago’s South and West Sides. Since then, it has grown into one of the city’s premier entrepreneur programs, producing well-known companies such as Brown Sugar Bakery, Chocolat Uzma, Eventnoire, and others.
Through this program, University of Chicago students provide these companies with hands-on consulting experience, helping them address key business challenges and develop new strategies for business growth. Teams are mentored by upper-level executives, Chicago Booth faculty members, and local business professionals who serve as coaches. The Polsky Center also works with external partner organizations to find ways to provide additional opportunities, funding, coaching, and other wraparound services.
During the graduation ceremony, participants reflected on their time in the program, highlighted the impact it had on their companies, and drew attention to the mentors and students who had helped them.
“Joining the Small Business Growth Program was a no-brainer for us as we always try to open up opportunities for ourselves to learn and grow,” said Jeremy Jones, co-founder of Sundrip. “The program is different because you not only get resources to learn what you should be doing and the space to explore it with other founders, but you also get the resources to implement the things you discover. I highly recommend the program and encourage anyone to apply.”
“My experience with the Polsky Center and the program has been nothing short of transformative for my business,” said Tacara Hammons, founder and CEO of Renee Ramore Hair Care. “The Small Business Growth Program has provided me with invaluable resources and insights that have helped me refine my business strategy and scale effectively.”
“The guidance of my business advisor was critical in shaping my approach to growth. Her expertise and genuine interest in my success was evident in every meeting,” Hammons continued. “Additionally, the support of the program director and dedicated alumni made a significant difference. They were not only knowledgeable, but also committed to understanding the unique challenges of my business and helping me find customized solutions. The Polsky Center is a hub for innovation and support, providing entrepreneurs like me with the tools and network they need to succeed. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program and I highly recommend it to any entrepreneur looking to take their business to the next level.”
“Participating in the Small Business Growth Program was a transformational experience for my business,” said Nikki Bravo, owner of Momentum Coffee. “What made this program stand out was the combination of expert coaching from people who genuinely cared about my success and the financial support I received to put my project plan into action. The advice was personal and insightful, and the funding enabled me to implement strategies that would have otherwise been out of reach. This program didn’t just offer advice; it gave me the resources to make meaningful progress. The difference it has made to my business has been remarkable, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity.”
Funded by JPMorganChase, the program provides valuable business support and opportunities for minority, women and veteran-owned businesses on Chicago’s South and West Sides. Thanks to financial support from sponsors, the Polsky Center is able to provide these resources to businesses that might otherwise be overlooked.
“At JPMorganChase, we are proud to support diverse businesses and connect entrepreneurs with an ecosystem of resources because we believe diversity drives innovation and economic growth,” said Phylicia Manley, program officer at JPMorganChase. “Chicago’s small businesses are the backbone of our economy and we are committed to providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed.”
The Small Business Growth Program 2024 group includes:
Learn more about the Small Business Growth Program and other programs and workshops offered at Polsky Exchange here.
