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Tools for
Business Success
OUR BLOG
Knowledge is Power for Growth
Welcome to our blog, where we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of Black-owned businesses in Illinois. Here, you'll find inspiring stories, valuable insights, and resources designed to empower our community.
Your Guide to Growing, Funding, and Networking with the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce
Looking to expand your business, find the right funding, or build a powerful network in Illinois? You’re in the right place. The Illinois...
LaDonna Raeh
Aug 254 min read
Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce to Host 20th Annual Business Conference — A Milestone Celebration of Black Business Power
By LaDonna Raeh The Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce (ILBCC) is proud to announce its 20th Annual Business Conference , taking...
LaDonna Raeh
Aug 112 min read
Less Than 5%: The Harsh Truth About Black Business and State Contracts
By LaDonna Raeh Today’s Hot Topic: Procurement — and Why We’re Still Getting Crumbs Let’s talk about a word that can make or break entire...
LaDonna Raeh
May 33 min read
The Wake Up Show Chicago Shines Spotlight on SIMPCO Solutions and Black Health Equity
On the latest episode of The Wake Up Show Chicago , co-hosted by LaDonna Raeh of Raeh Consulting and ILBCC CEO & Chairman Larry Ivory,...
LaDonna Raeh
May 23 min read
Get Ready for REAL ID: What It Means for You and Why Chamber Membership Matters More Than Ever
Beginning May 7, 2025 , the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all travelers flying within the United States to...
LaDonna Raeh
May 22 min read
Why Supporting Black Media Is a Business Imperative — Not a Charity Case
“Don’t sleep. Black radio isn’t dead—it’s evolving.” That statement, made during a powerful NABJ webinar moderated by Allison Keyes ,...
LaDonna Raeh
May 13 min read
2025 Lobby Day: A Celebration of Collective Power and New Voices
Each year, the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce (ILBCC) organizes a powerful Lobby Day, bringing business owners, community...
LaDonna Raeh
Apr 143 min read
The Interchange Fee Prohibition Act: A Costly Burden on Small Businesses, Workers, and Consumers
A last-minute legislative maneuver in Illinois has set the stage for a major disruption to the way small businesses process credit and...
LaDonna Raeh
Feb 262 min read
The Crucial Role of Community Development Financial Institutions
In the heart of Illinois, a quiet revolution is taking place in the world of small business financing. Community Development Financial...
Larry Ivory
Sep 27, 20242 min read
The Evolving Impact of Illinois' Cannabis Social Equity Program: Progress and Challenges
When Illinois legalized recreational cannabis in 2020, it made history by prioritizing social equity in its legislation. The Cannabis...
Larry Ivory
Sep 27, 20243 min read
Bridging the Gap: How Illinois' Black-Owned Construction Firms Can Capitalize on the Federal Infrastructure Bill
For Black-owned construction & engineering firms in Illinois, this massive investment in our nation's infrastructure could be a game-changer
Larry Ivory
Sep 27, 20242 min read
The Vital Role of Black-Owned Businesses in Driving Illinois' Economic Growth
One of the most significant contributions of Black-owned businesses is job creation. According to Governor Pritzker, there are over 141,000
Larry Ivory
Sep 27, 20243 min read
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