Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Announces Request for South Lawndale Small Business Storefront Activation Project

CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) have announced a new program aimed at revitalizing the South Lawndale community and supporting small businesses. The program, called the South Lawndale Small Business Storefront Activation Program, will partner with a local community and economic development organization to bring new life to vacant storefronts and provide vital support to small businesses in the area.

According to Mayor Johnson, this program is a key part of his administration's commitment to supporting small businesses and growing commercial corridors into thriving community hubs. He believes that by partnering with a local organization, they can inspire entrepreneurship and create jobs in one of the city's most well-known commercial corridors. The program will not only fill vacant storefronts but also contribute to a safer and stronger South Lawndale neighborhood.

The selected organization will be responsible for identifying vacant storefronts, negotiating leases, and facilitating new retail businesses or community markets. They will also provide comprehensive technical assistance to participating small businesses, including support in marketing, business development, and strategic planning. This model aims to provide both immediate exposure and long-term sustainability for local entrepreneurs.

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BACP Commissioner Ivan J. Capifali stated that this program is a direct investment in the resilience and future of Chicago's commercial corridors. By empowering a local community partner, they can tailor support to the specific needs of South Lawndale, helping businesses launch, expand, and contribute to a vibrant local economy.

Funding for this initiative comes from the Chicago Road to Recovery Plan using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). One award of up to $250,000 will be granted through this Request for Proposals (RFP). The contract term is expected to be up to 14 months with activations beginning as early as January 2026.

Interested organizations must submit their proposals by October 8th, 2025 at 12:00 PM CDT (NOON). An optional virtual pre-submittal conference will be held on September 19th, 2025 at 10:00 AM to clarify the RFP process and scope of services. Those interested in participating can visit the City's eProcurement website and search for RFP #57044.

This program is a significant step towards revitalizing the South Lawndale community and supporting small businesses in the area. With the help of a local partner, it aims to bring new life to vacant storefronts and create a thriving commercial corridor that will benefit both businesses and the community as a whole.

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