Congresswoman Ramirez Hosts IL-03 Black Business Owners for Conversation on Challenges, Successes, Federal Resources

Chicago, IL - Yesterday, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) convened Black small business owners in IL-03 to hear directly from them their success stories, the challenges minority business owners confront, and how her office can best provide transformative assistance. During the meet and greet at CheSa’s Bistro + Bar in the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago, Congresswoman Ramirez’s team provided information on available federal resources and opportunities for minority businesses. 

“Small businesses, especially minority-owned, are spearheading the success of both our local and national economies. The rate of Black-owned small business creation is the highest it’s been in 25 years, bringing innovation and opportunities to our communities. And we must celebrate them and ensure they receive the funding, support, and resources they need during this month and every day,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “Coming together with small business owners reminds me of the entrepreneurial spirit throughout our district. I appreciated the opportunity to meet directly with Black business owners from IL-03 to understand their needs and the resources I must advocate for in Congress.”

The Congresswoman was joined by:

• Chef Chesaree Rollins, CheSa’s Bistro + Bar - one of two businesses from IL-03 to participate in Chicago Black Restaurant Week.
• Marian Haas, REP CHI (Portage Park, Chicago)
• Antoine & Arianna Scott, Atmos Coffee Shop (Humboldt Park, Chicago) 
• Chef Tanya Stewart, TAS Eatery (Dunning, Chicago) 

For photos and footage of the event, CLICK HERE.

BACKGROUND:

According to data released by the Small Business Administration (SBA), the United States has experienced a historic small business boom being led by women and people of color, with the rate of Black-owned small business creation at its highest level in 25 years. SBA-backed loans to Black-owned small businesses have more than doubled under the current Administration, with nearly $1.5 billion in lending. According to a 2019 Census report, there are more than 147,251 Black-owned businesses in the state of Illinois.