Chicago Women's Business Development Center
Training and resources for women entrepreneurs in Chicago.
About
The Chicago Women's Business Development Center is a Women's Business Center (WBC) dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. As part of the SBA's network of Women's Business Centers, this resource provides comprehensive business training, mentorship, and support services specifically tailored to women business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. The center offers expert guidance on critical business fundamentals including business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and operational best practices. Women entrepreneurs can access one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced business advisors who understand the unique challenges women face in starting and scaling businesses. The center also conducts workshops and training sessions on topics ranging from accessing capital and understanding loan requirements to digital marketing and e-commerce. By combining practical training with personalized mentoring, the Chicago Women's Business Development Center helps women transform their business ideas into viable, sustainable enterprises. The center serves as a vital resource for women at all stages of business ownership—from those in the planning phase to established business owners looking to expand. All services are provided at no cost to participants, making professional business guidance accessible to women entrepreneurs regardless of their financial situation.
Services Offered
Program Type
Women's Business Center (WBC)
Cost
Free
Services
Free one-on-one business mentoring, business plan development, financial management guidance, marketing strategy, loan preparation assistance, startup consulting, business workshops and training
Best For
Women entrepreneurs, women business owners, female startup founders, women-owned small businesses in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does Chicago Women's Business Development Center provide?
The Chicago Women's Business Development Center offers free one-on-one business mentoring and counseling, business plan development assistance, financial management guidance, marketing and branding support, and access to training workshops. As a Women's Business Center (WBC), the organization specializes in helping women entrepreneurs navigate startup challenges, secure funding, understand loan options, develop competitive strategies, and build sustainable business models. Services are customized to meet individual business needs and growth stages.
Is Chicago Women's Business Development Center free to use?
Yes, all services provided by the Chicago Women's Business Development Center are completely free. As an SBA-affiliated Women's Business Center, the organization receives federal funding to ensure that women entrepreneurs can access professional business guidance, mentoring, training workshops, and counseling without any cost barriers. This commitment to free services removes financial obstacles that might otherwise prevent women from accessing critical business support.
Who can use Chicago Women's Business Development Center?
The Chicago Women's Business Development Center welcomes women entrepreneurs at all stages of business ownership, including prospective business owners, startup founders, and established women-owned business operators seeking growth and expansion. The center is designed specifically for women who are starting, managing, or growing a business in the Chicago area. There are no fees or membership requirements to access services, making it accessible to women from all backgrounds and industries.
How do I get started with Chicago Women's Business Development Center?
To get started, contact the Chicago Women's Business Development Center directly to schedule a free initial consultation. You can reach out via phone, email, or by visiting their office location in Chicago. During your first meeting, a business advisor will discuss your business goals, current challenges, and the specific support you need. From there, you can enroll in mentoring sessions, attend workshops, or access other training programs that align with your business objectives.
Last updated: February 28, 2026