Chicago United expanded its Five Forward Initiative™ to create a more comprehensive program that provides additional assistance and resources to more Minority Business Enterprises: the Minority Business Partnership Program, which includes The Five Forward Initiative™.
Through the Minority Business Partnership Program, which includes The Five Forward Initiative™, Chicago United works one-on-one with Minority Business Enterprises* to connect them with capital and government assistance that, in turn, strengthen the local economy and enhance job creation within Chicago’s communities.
Additionally, this impactful program helps Committed Corporations meet their business diversity goals.
This structure enables Chicago United to work with Minority Business Enterprises outside The Five Forward Initiative™ to provide these businesses with programming and resources. We help facilitate networking and partnership opportunities amongst Minority Business Enterprises and Committed Corporations, which sets the foundation for future partnering and business opportunities.
*Minority Business Enterprises are not required to be a Member of Chicago United to participate.
OUR RESULTS:
Nearly 100 Minority Business Enterprises participate in the MBP Program.
55 Minority Business Enterprises with current contracts.
15 Committed Corporations participate in the Program.
2023 TOTAL SPEND: $91 Million
An increase from 2022 Total Spend by $15 Million
Watch our Informational Video
What is the mission of Chicago United's Minority Business Partnership Program, which includes The Five Forward Initiative™? Find the answer in this introductory video and learn how you can evaluate your organization with the Program.
Check out our Minority Business Partnership Program's Success Stories
Meet the Minority Business Enterprises that are a testament to the strength and effectiveness of Chicago United's Minority Business Partnership Program, including The Five Forward Initiative™.
MBE PHOTO GALLERY
INNOVATION, LEADERSHIP, AND DIVERSITY IN CHICAGO'S BUSINESS COMMUNITY
FUNDING PROVIDERS
The Minority Business Partnership Program which includes The Five Forward Initiative™ is supported in part through funding by
Nicor Gas
The Minority Business Partnership Program, which includes The Five Forward Initiative™ is the proud recipient of a grant from
The Allstate Foundation
The Minority Business Partnership Program, which includes The Five Forward Initiative™ is the proud recipient of a grant from
Fifth Third Bank
For Details On THE Minority Business Partnership PROGRAM Including the Five Forward Initiative™,
Please Contact:
Debbie Cortez
Director of Minority Business Partnership
(312) 977-3061
dcortez@chicago-united.org