Engaging small business ecosystems: Loyola University Chicago

July 9, 2026 - 04:13

The third Capacity Building for Capacity Builders conference, held at Loyola University Chicago, brought together a diverse group of professionals focused on strengthening the small business landscape. The event was designed to foster genuine connections and open conversation throughout the small business ecosystem, moving beyond typical networking to address deeper structural challenges.

Attendees included nonprofit leaders, economic development specialists, and university faculty who work directly with entrepreneurs. Rather than focusing on quick fixes, the conference emphasized long-term capacity building. Sessions covered how to better support underserved business owners, share resources across organizations, and create more resilient local economies.

Organizers noted that the goal was to move away from siloed efforts. Many small business support groups operate independently, often duplicating services or missing opportunities for collaboration. The conference provided a space for these groups to align their strategies and learn from each other's successes and failures.

Participants left with practical takeaways, including new models for mentorship programs and strategies for securing funding that reaches the most vulnerable businesses. The event underscored that a healthy small business ecosystem requires not just capital, but also coordinated support systems that can adapt to changing economic conditions. Loyola University Chicago plans to continue hosting these gatherings, aiming to build a lasting network of capacity builders across the region.