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 24th Ward Alderman Michael D. Chandler wants to announce several programs offered by the Chicago Urban League targeted to help develop, promote and qualify minority-owned (MBE), Women Business Enterprise (WBE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) for successful careers in general business and the construction trades industry.

“I strongly urge 24th ward business entrepreneurs to take full advantage of the business development assistance programs being offered now by the Chicago Urban League, commented Alderman Chandler. I am committed to making our residents aware of any programs the can create new businesses in the ward and help existing businesses to expand, compete and operate more efficiently to win contracts and opportunities in the public and private business arena,” stated Chandler.

The Chicago Contractor Development Program: This program is designed to develop technical, managerial and other essential entrepreneurial skills that support developers, general contractors, specialty trade construction firms, interior designers and architects reach their next level of business success. The aim of the program is to increase the pool of qualified minority business enterprises (MBEs) and develop more minority firms to Prime status. Classes are free of charge. Companies interested in accessing the services under this program can go to the web address: www.thechicagourbanleague.org or call Salena Sizemore at the Chicago Urban League office at (773) 451-3566 for more information.

Entrepreneurship Center NextStep Business Classes: This program provides hands-on experiences that are used to assist entrepreneurs in learning how to write a business plan, forecast financial projections, conduct market research and take the appropriate steps to start or grow an existing business properly. Participants receive One-on-One Business Support Clinics, Network Support Services, and Business Development Technical Assistance. Next schedule of classes are being conducted from May 1, 2012 through August 23, 2012. The classes are conducted Tuesday & Thursday from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Classes are free of charge. More information can be obtained from the Chicago Urban League at (773) 285-5800 or website; www.thechicagourbanleague.org.

“Information links to these Urban League Programs can also be accessed through my website: www.aldermanchandler.com. I look forward to our residents utilizing these important programs as we work together to promote successful business development and opportunities within the 24th ward,” commented Chandler.