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Black United Fund of Illinois, Inc.
Henry L. English Entrepreneurial and Business Center (EBC)

 

The Problem: Chicago’s African American community is in a crisis of education, violence, poverty, and disenfranchisement. The root of the problem is economic. There are too few individuals gainfully employed and able to support their families and communities.

The Challenge: African American small businesses face these challenges:

  • Lack of corporate infrastructure and access to professional services (legal, IT, accounting)
  • Excessive cost (time and money) of training and retaining a skilled workforce
  • No access to capital
  • Limited access to new business growth opportunities

The Solution: The Black United Fund of Illinois (BUFI) is launching the Henry L. English Entrepreneurial and Business Center (EBC). Located in Chicago’s South Shore community, will offer a range of resources to participating businesses in Chicago. Resources will include:

  • Shared, low cost office space
  • Shared, low cost office services (conference room, computer systems, receptionist, supplies, training)
  • Access to essential professional services (IT set up and maintenance, legal and organizational help, accounting services including payroll set up, billing, tax payment)
  • A pipeline of workers that have demonstrated a capacity and commitment to work
  • Access to contracting opportunities offered by large institutions, corporations and government agencies

Mission: A comprehensive, community based plan to (1) to grow small African American owned businesses, and (2) create employment opportunities and a developed workforce. Stronger African American businesses and workers will help strengthen and stabilize African American neighborhoods.


The Goal: In its first two years of operation starting early 2018, EBC intends to enroll and support 50 small businesses. With an average of 15-20 workers per business, EBC will be helping over 1,000 workers and fostering wealth in South Shore and beyond.

Mailing Address

Black United Fund of Illinois, Inc.™
1809 East 71st Street
Chicago, IL 60649

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© 2020 Black United Fund of Illinois™. All Rights Reserved. | Members and visitors to the Black United Fund, Inc.™ website agree to adhere to our Terms of Use and accept our Privacy Policy.

Website Development, Digital Marketing, and Hosting by Sidereal Digital™. Brand Management and Consulting Services offered by Sidereal Branding™.

Mailing Address

Black United Fund of Illinois, Inc.™
1809 East 71st Street
Chicago, IL 60649

© 2020 Black United Fund of Illinois™. All Rights Reserved. | Members and visitors to the Black United Fund, Inc.™ website agree to adhere to our Terms of Use and accept our Privacy Policy.

Website Development, Digital Marketing, and Hosting by Sidereal Digital™. Brand Management and Consulting Services offered by Sidereal Branding™.