Getting Started

Multicultural Programs

Latina Business Program


Launched in 2002, the Latina Business Program provides a full range of business services, presented in Spanish, to prospective and existing Latina entrepreneurs. We offer training and consultation at our downtown office and in several Chicagoland communities.

The Latina Business Program is open to any aspiring or established business owner who requires instruction in Spanish.

Click here to see more...

Targeted Workshops and Seminars    

The WBDC offers our core entrepreneurial training workshops and industry-specific training in the child-care industry through our Latina Business Program.  All workshops are presented in Spanish.  Please <click here> for complete workshop descriptions and to register. 

Business Coaching   

Business Counseling – WBDC counselors meet clients individually to work through issues, discuss and develop strategies, and enhance managerial skills. To schedule an appointment, please contact Maria Lopez, Bilingual Trainer/Counselor, at 312.853.3477 X 38 or mlopez@wbdc.org

 Financial Assistance    
 We work with owners to develop and implement a financing strategy that best serves your business needs.  Specialized services include loan packaging and pre- and post- loan technical assistance. Financial assistance is available in Spanish.  For more information, please contact Maria Lopez, Bilingual Trainer/Counselor, at 312.853.3477 X 38 or mlopez@wbdc.org
 

Special Events and Networking Opportunities   

Child Care Business Expo – This annual event includes an array of business workshops presented by experienced child-care providers and WBDC business experts. All participants -- newcomers and annual attendees -- enjoy lively presentations, state-of-the-art industry information, networking, and exclusive access to industry vendors. All events are presented in English and Spanish.  Please <click here> for more information and to register.

Business Exchange – Meet to discuss issues and challenges that surface as you continue to grow your business.  Use the group setting as a resource and for peer support.  The Business Exchange is open to all businesses that earn a minimum of $50,000 in annual sales.  For more information or to register, please contact  Established Business Program Director, at 312.853.3477 X 43 or wbdc@wbdc.org

Specialized Assistance   

Referrals to Specialized Business Professionals – The WBDC has assembled a database of professionals in a variety of fields, including accountants, lawyers, graphic designers, and sales consultants. For referral information, please contact the WBDC at 312.853.3477 X 0 or wbdc@wbdc.org

Hide details


Asian Women’s Business Program


Launched in 2006, in partnership with the Women’s Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor, the Asian Women’s Business Program was a two year demonstration project providing a full range of business services to prospective and established Asian and Asian American women entrepreneurs in the Chicago area.

The Asian Women’s Business Program provided entrepreneurial training, business counseling, resources and support to assist these women in their pursuit to own successful businesses in spite of possible cultural and language differences.  Workshops were held at the WBDC’s downtown office and in suburban areas with heavy Asian populations.

In 2008, at the close of the project, the program had assisted over 120 women and was deemed highly successful.  The WBDC continues to assist Asian and Asian American women business owners through its ongoing programs and services.

Click here to see more...

Targeted Workshops  

We offer our core entrepreneurial training workshops and industry-specific training in the child care and other industries through our Asian Women’s Business Program. Please <click here> for full workshop descriptions and to register. 

Business Coaching   

Business Counseling – WBDC counselors meet clients individually to work through issues, discuss and develop strategies, and enhance managerial skills. To schedule an appointment, please call 312.853.3477 X 0 or wbdc@wbdc.org

Events and Networking Opportunities   

Business Exchange – Meet to discuss issues and challenges that surface as you continue to grow your business.  Use the group setting as a resource and for peer support.  The Business Exchange is open to all businesses that earn a minimum of $50,000 in annual sales.  For more information or to register, please contact  the director of the Established Business Program, at 312.853.3477 X 43 

Specialized Assistance   

Referrals to Specialized Business Professionals – The WBDC has extended its resources to experienced professionals in a variety of fields, including accountants, lawyers, graphic designers, and sales consultants. For referral information, please contact the WBDC at 312.853.3477 X 0 or wbdc@wbdc.org

Hide details