DCEO to Host 2^nd Annual Latin@ Economic Summit on July 18 

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Office of Minority Economic Empowerment’s (OMEE) Latinx Business Colectivo is hosting the 2^nd Annual Latin@ Economic Summit with the theme Rising Together: Empowering and Shaping the Future Strategically. The bilingual event will feature matchmaking opportunities for funding, guidance on building and sustaining business networks, scheduled networking opportunities, free professional headshots courtesy of United Credit Union, and more. ​ ​ 

“Since day one of my administration, we have dedicated ourselves to making Illinois the best state to start and grow a business,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am thrilled to see the Latinx Economic Summit return this year to connect Latinx businesses with critical resources and opportunities. Empowering our underserved communities ensures that we rise together to create a stronger, more prosperous future for all.” 

“This Latin@ Economic Summit is a powerful demonstration of equity in action,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “When we bring Latinx stakeholders together to talk about economic empowerment, we actively build bridges, open doors, and create new pathways to success. Together, we are ensuring that Illinois' economic future is as diverse and dynamic as our people.” 

The Latin@ Economic Summit is a culmination of DCEO's work – through its Latinx Business Colectivo – to uplift, support and empower the Latinx business community. The event was made possible through partnerships with the following organizations in the Latinx Business Colectivo: BMO Bank, Center for Changing Lives, Chicago Latina Magazine, Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA), IC U Latinas, Southwest Collective, Sunshine Enterprises, United Credit Union, and Federal Executive Boards. 

“DCEO is proud to host its 2nd Latino/a Economic Summit, providing a space for Illinois' vibrant Latinx business community to convene and access essential resources,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “This event is a true testament to DCEO’s commitment to creating equitable economic opportunities across Illinois and ensuring small businesses and entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented communities have the tools they need to be successful.” ​ 

The summit will showcase the contributions of the Latinx community, discuss overcoming systemic barriers, and connect participants with tangible resources and economic development opportunities, including speakers and workshops. Details can be found below: 

Date: Thursday, July 18, 2024 

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 

Location: Malcolm X College, 1900 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago 

Parking: Parking is free of charge with ticket validation 

Registration: Registration is required ​ 

Agenda: 

8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.: Exhibitors, Technical Assistance, and Professional Headshots (morning only) are available 

8:30 - 9:00 a.m.: Registration & sign-in 

9:00 – 10:35 a.m.: Programming, including the Exciting Éxitos series and a panel discussion on crafting your business pitch 

10:45 - 11:35 a.m.: Breakout Sessions #1 

11:35 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Working Lunch - Latino Prosperity Utilizing State Resources 

12:35 - 1:25 p.m.: Breakout Sessions #2 

1:25 - 1:30 p.m. Closing Remarks and Wrap-Up 

The Illinois Office of Minority Economic Empowerment (OMEE) plays a crucial role in providing support to minority-owned businesses and marginalized businesses of all sizes and types, including connection with grants, technical assistance, and incentives to bolster marginalized entrepreneurs and marginalized-owned enterprises. For more information and to register for the Latin@ Economic Summit, please visit DCEO's website. For questions about the summit, please reach out to Diana Alfaro, Latinx Business Development Manager, at diana.alfaro@illinois.gov. 

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