Small Business Connection Series
CIVIC LEADERSHIP
SMALL BUSINESS CONNECTION SERIES
Chicago’s South and Southeast Communities
Infrastructure, Data & the Future Economy
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
The Study at University of Chicago
1227 E 60th Street
Join us for a catered lunch, introductions and networking and a fantastic conversation with our esteemed Power Hour Panelists.
This session explores how infrastructure, data, and emerging industries are transforming the regional economic landscape, and what this shift means for local communities, businesses, and workforce pathways.
The Panel Includes:
- Moderator:
Dr. William W. Towns, Adjunct Professor, Kellogg School, Northwestern University
- Panelists:
Aleena Agrawal, Vice President Strategic Initiatives, P33 Chicago
Craig Huffman, Co-Founder & CEO, Metro Edge Development Partners
Tickets: $25 per person; $40 for two attendees
REGISTER TODAY: Available tickets are limited due to space.
Doors open at 11:00 am for networking and lunch. Panel will begin at 11:30 am.
Lunch included and catered by The Study at University of Chicago. Donations welcome.
Free on street parking available and paid parking in nearby parking lots located behind/south of the hotel.
Women in Business Power Hour Lunch
Connecting Women’s Advancement to Chicago’s Economic Engines.
Wednesday June 3, 2026
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
The Study at University of Chicago
1227 E 60th Street
SOUTHSIDE CONNECTION SYMPOSIUM
Anchored for Impact | Future Proof
SAVE THE DATE – South East Chicago Commission (SECC) will host its annual regional economic development symposium
on Friday, October 9, 2026 from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm with a mission to strengthen the business districts in Chicago’s Southeast lakefront neighborhoods.
The SECC Symposium will convene entrepreneurs, business executives, property owners, investors, financial institutions, policy leaders and practitioners as a diverse, cross-sector community committed to economic vitality.
Attendance is FREE with advance registration.
Special Thanks To Our Partners
SECC is a Neighborhood Business Development Center (NBDC) granted by the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. As an NBDC delegate agency, SECC provides assistance in the development of small businesses in Chicago, serves as liaison between local businesses and the City of Chicago, and delivers local business development services.