[Cook County, IL, Feb, 2024]

– The Southland Development Authority (SDA) showcased its commitment to supporting the Latino small business community by attending the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's annual networking breakfast last Thursday. The event, a cornerstone for fostering connections and discussing growth strategies, was attended by SDA's Director of Business Growth Services, Emmanuel Davila, and Relationship Manager, Marisela Zambrano.

This annual breakfast is crucial for building networks and discussing the growth of the Latino small business community in Illinois. Jaime di Paulo Zozaya, the CEO of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, warmly welcomed the attendees and shared insights into the Chamber’s influential role in aiding Latino entrepreneurs.

A key moment of the event was the address by Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, who provided insights on Cook County’s role in supporting Latino entrepreneurs. Her talk underscored the government’s dedication to creating an inclusive business environment.

The event also featured insights from Letticia Flores Poole, highlighting the efforts of financial institutions like BMO Harris Bank in investing in Latino small businesses. This reflects a positive trend towards financial support and empowerment within the Latino business community in the region.

As a member of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the SDA reiterated its commitment to initiatives that drive economic growth for Latino entrepreneurs. Participation in such events highlights SDA’s dedication to being an active force in enhancing the business landscape.

More than just a networking opportunity, the breakfast was a platform for sharing ideas, experiences, and strategies to bolster the Latino business community in Illinois. It brought together individuals from civic, business, and nonprofit sectors, emphasizing the collaborative spirit necessary for the prosperity and growth of small businesses.

The SDA, through its involvement in such events, aligns its efforts with broader objectives to support diverse entrepreneurial communities. The team at SDA is proud to be part of these impactful efforts and is eager to contribute to further advancements in the business sector.