Owner-2-CEO: Free Small Business Accelerator Course

About Our intensive 10-week accelerator program provides an unparalleled opportunity to scale your business alongside a cohort of like-minded entrepreneurs.The Owner 2 CEO program is rolled out twice a year in the Fall and Spring. Submit your application for the cur......More

About Our intensive 10-week accelerator program provides an unparalleled opportunity to scale your business alongside a cohort of like-minded entrepreneurs.The Owner 2 CEO program is rolled out twice a year in the Fall and Spring. Submit your application for the current enrollment process. Commitment Attend regularly Participate fully-leave your cell phone at the door Complete an initial assessment and follow-up assessments Out-of-class assignments will be required Create a Strategic Action Plan Recommended Eligibility 2+ years in operation $200,000 revenues in the most recent fiscal year 2+ employees (owners may be included in this count) Schedule Tuesday's & Thursday's from 6-8 pm (Via Zoom) Entrepreneurial Leadership Development & Delegation Knowing who you are as a leader, your strengths, and weaknesses will be the basis for developing a growth mindset and moving from working in the business to working on the business. Perfecting an effective elevator pitch Understand your personal BOSI DNA and how it impacts your performance Understanding employee’s mindset and intrapreneurial skills Improve your own personal performance and develop personal objectives Creating effective delegation strategies, including monitoring and performance management Planning and Strategy for Growth Review the foundation of your business, mission, vision and values, & SWOT Understand scalability and how it impacts your business Identify methods and opportunities for growth Develop skills to create an effective strategic plan for growth Examine current business plan, business situation and organizational structure for best fit with your business model Content and Communication Going beyond the normal concept of marketing to evaluate the importance of developing and managing strong marketing content and solid methods of communicating your marketing message to your clearly identified customer base. Understanding how your purpose and your customer’s needs interact Know how to create and use meaningful value propositions to increase sales Understand how buyers make purchase decisions Determining appropriate media for your market Create effective communications for use in a variety of media Understand how digital and traditional marketing approaches interact to get the best out of both in a changing business environment Sales and Lead Generation No sales, no business. In this session we will be building on the content and communication session to create a plan for the development of a solid pipeline of sales leads and how to implement the plan to maintain the pipeline and close sales. Tools to develop a sales pipeline Procedures for tracking leads and secrets on how to act on those leads Techniques for opening and closing a sale Methods for delivering exemplary client care and generating repeat sales Creating an effective sales and lead generation operational plan Internal sales or an external sales force, what are the factors that need to be considered Tactical Communication Growing a business requires effective communication with a wide range of audiences, employees, vendors, customers, service providers to mention just a few. This session provides tactical and practical interpersonal communication advice and help you develop the skills to ensure productive working relationships both inside and outside the company. How to develop shared mission statements driven by explicit expectations Communicating effectively when challenges arise in the working environment. Best practices for effectively communicating via email.   Management in a Digital Environment Irrespective of the type of business we operate, there is no escaping the impact of technology in almost every aspect of running our businesses. Whether it is accepting payments, managing the financials or using the full gamut of social media options, technology is a critical part of business growth. Plan your digital environment, knowing what processes should and could be organized Market your business in a digital environment, when to use social media, what to use and how to monitor the effectiveness of your marketing efforts Handle financial transactions in a virtual environment Understand how to develop automations that allow your systems to communicate with one another Using & Managing Social Media Platforms We hear a lot about social media and their value for growing business. The key to success is know which, what, and how and how to manage and monitor results. Using social media platforms in our overall marketing strategy (Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc) Social media tools overview(Hootsuite, Buffer, Later, Agorapulse, Sprout Social, Sendible, etc.) Curating content and creating a content calendar Understanding social media analytics and the KPIs for each platform Advertising Understanding and Using Financial Information to Manage Growth Established businesses have a CPA to create financial statements and manage tax reporting. Growing a business however, requires review of company financial data as a tool to manage day to day business transactions for growth and profitability. Know how to use financial information from your accounting software to manage business growth, effect change and improve performance and profits Appreciate the value of budgets, costs and pricing strategies to manage people and processes in the business Understanding break-even analysis and ratios and how they are used to plan growth Identify cash flow bottlenecks before they arise and know how to resolve them if they do happen Understand what lenders look for to make financing decisions Financing a Growing Business You will need to finance the business at some point it you haven’t already. Learn from a commercial lender. Discuss what banks are looking for when they make lending decisions Learn what criteria they use to evaluate a business for lending Prepare to present yourself and your company to a lender Develop an understanding of how to present your company’s financial information to make the lending decision easy Human Resources Growing companies require people. They are the most expensive resource most companies will have so hiring decisions are amongst the most important and potentially costly decisions a business owner will have to make. In this session we will be looking at the HR function and understanding how it impacts business growth. Understanding and creating the company culture for your business and how it can impact growth Appreciate the legal background to employment activities Identify critical issues related to Human Resource function and the potential traps for business owners Assess current workforce situation Develop appropriate job descriptions, policy manuals and compensation plans Developing an effective management team Understanding generational issues, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace Growth Market Opportunities: Government Contracting The US government is largest purchaser of goods and services in the USA making it a perfect business expansion opportunity. It’s a complex marketplace and this session focuses on the opportunities it presents and how to access them. Understand how to navigate the maze of government contracting Find methods of maximizing your exposure to government agencies and large corporations Know how to access, research, and respond to government contract opportunities Growth Market Opportunities: International Trade The International marketplace is a $4 trillion opportunity and expanding at rates greater than the domestic market. In this session you will focus on the opportunities selling internationally presents for business growth. Learn how to access the market intelligence you will need to determine suitable overseas market and how to compete effectively in those market How to ready your company for export readiness and compliance Discuss how international sales are financed Growth Market Opportunities: Social Responsibility Today’s consumers are more socially conscious and frequently use their spending power to support causes and businesses that share their own values and aspirations. Socially responsible business is good business. What does it mean to make your business socially aware and responsive to changing consumer needs? Organize, manage and market your business in ways that meet your growth goals Understand how to remain sensitive to the values and aspirations of your customers.

Halloween at Andy's

Only TREATS at Andy’s this Halloween! We can’t wait to spoil our neighbors with Free Kids' One-Topping Sundaes on Oct. 31st from 11:00am – 11:30pm for all children 12 & under in costumer. Bring your family by for a sweet treat on our patio or stop by on your way to the ......More

Only TREATS at Andy’s this Halloween! We can’t wait to spoil our neighbors with Free Kids' One-Topping Sundaes on Oct. 31st from 11:00am – 11:30pm for all children 12 & under in costumer. Bring your family by for a sweet treat on our patio or stop by on your way to the neighborhood Halloween party! Taking photos of your kids enjoying their Andy’s? Please Tag us @andysfrozencustard and use the hashtag #AndysHalloween25 and you will be entered to win an Andy’s Gift Card!

Andy's Frozen Custard in Glen Ellyn

Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Curry A La Flambe

Please join us on Mon, Nov 3rd at 4pm for the Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Curry A La Flambe.   A variety of samples will be served:  - **Corn Fritters:** Crispy and packed with flavor. - **Vegetable Samosas:** Spiced potatoes and peas in a golden pastry. -......More

Please join us on Mon, Nov 3rd at 4pm for the Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Curry A La Flambe.   A variety of samples will be served:  - **Corn Fritters:** Crispy and packed with flavor. - **Vegetable Samosas:** Spiced potatoes and peas in a golden pastry. - **Malai Chicken Vol-au-Vent:** Flaky pastry with creamy chicken. - **Butter Chicken with Mini Naans:** A classic favorite. - **Palak Paneer with Mini Naans:** Creamy spinach and paneer delight. Drinks: - **Mango Lassi:** A refreshing, sweet yogurt drink. - **Mimosas:** Sparkling wine with fresh juice. - **Sparkling Wine:**  For dessert, they will be serving **Amarena Rice Pudding** — a creamy and delightful treat topped with flavorsome amarena cherries.

Curry A La Flambe 462 N Park Blvd unit 120 Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Young Professionals Inter-Chamber Networking Event

Main Event - Warrenville 28248 Diehl Rd. Warrenville

Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Mosaic Counseling & Wellness

Please join us on Thurs, Nov 6th from 1-2pm to celebrate the Grand Opening of Mosaic Counseling & Wellness.

Mosaic Counseling & Wellness 460 N Main St., Suite 205 Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Shrek - FREE Holiday Movie

The Glen Ellyn Chamber is proud to present a FREE HOLIDAY MATINEE showing of the movie "Shrek" sponsored by A&G Sub Sandwich Spot !  

Glen Art Theatre 540 Crescent Ave. Glen Ellyn

VETERAN’S DAY CEREMONY

The Glen Ellyn American Legion and the Glen Ellyn VFW will host the Veteran’s Day event on Saturday, November 8, 2025.                               We will gather at 10:00 am and program will begin at 11 am.     PLEASE NOTE NEW DATE AND NEW LOCATION.                  ......More

The Glen Ellyn American Legion and the Glen Ellyn VFW will host the Veteran’s Day event on Saturday, November 8, 2025.                               We will gather at 10:00 am and program will begin at 11 am.     PLEASE NOTE NEW DATE AND NEW LOCATION.                   .             ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND Veterans Day recognizes and honors all veterans from every generation who have served in the Armed Forces of the greatest nation on earth.

The new location will be at the Glen Ellyn Civic Center Gym- 2nd. Floor 535 Duane St, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

10 Year Anniversary Ribbon Cutting at Marche

Please join us on Sat, Nov 8th at 11:45 am to celebrate Marche's 10-Year Anniversary! Ribbon Cutting at noon Marche will be hosting wine & cheese tastings 

Marche 496 Main St. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Jesus and Nonviolence: Pilgrimage and Practice During Turbulent Times

Are you looking for clarity to navigate the chaos of our times? Are you seeking courage to live out your faith? What can we learn from the life of Jesus and others who have chosen nonviolence as a spiritual practice? On November 9, we welcome guest preacher, internation......More

Are you looking for clarity to navigate the chaos of our times? Are you seeking courage to live out your faith? What can we learn from the life of Jesus and others who have chosen nonviolence as a spiritual practice? On November 9, we welcome guest preacher, international speaker, and nonviolence expert Kathleen Macferran for Sunday worship at 10 am. Join us for a workshop after the service from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm as we explore the three pillars of nonviolence in our day-to-day lives, and how to live practices that embody love and dignity for all of God’s creation. Lunch is included, please register by Wednesday, November 5th. Register here. First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn, Il. 535 Forest Ave. fccge.org

First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn, Il.

Glen Ellyn Chamber Monthly Meeting

Annual Election of Officers & Progressive Networking Due to our event falling on Veteran's Day, I am happy to announce that we will be honoring our Veterans.  Mike Formento from American Legion Post #3 will be saying a few words.   Our 2026 Board of Directors S......More

Annual Election of Officers & Progressive Networking Due to our event falling on Veteran's Day, I am happy to announce that we will be honoring our Veterans.  Mike Formento from American Legion Post #3 will be saying a few words.   Our 2026 Board of Directors Slate & amended bylaws will be voted on to approve at our meeting.   Progressive Luncheon will follow. Bring lots of business cards!  At the Progressive Luncheon you will sit at 3 different tables for your 1st, 2nd and 3rd course meal.  At each table you will introduce yourself, business and network with up to 30 people! Don't miss this great luncheon! Luncheon Sponsorship is Available

Brookdale Glen Ellyn 60 N. Nicoll Avenue Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Chicken Salad Chick

Please join us on Wed, Nov 13th at 9:30am for the Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Chicken Salad Chick. Chicken Salad Chick is offering FREE Chicken Salad to the 1st 100 Guests for 1 Year along with other promotional giveaways!

Chicken Salad Chick 293 Roosevelt Road Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Empowering Women in Business Expo & Luncheon

Please join us for our Women in Business Expo & Luncheon at the Morton Arboretum! Our event will begin at the Thornhill Education Center in the Founders Room for our Business Expo from 10am-11:30am.  We will then host our Luncheon & Panel Discussion in the Arbor Room ......More

Please join us for our Women in Business Expo & Luncheon at the Morton Arboretum! Our event will begin at the Thornhill Education Center in the Founders Room for our Business Expo from 10am-11:30am.  We will then host our Luncheon & Panel Discussion in the Arbor Room from 11:30am-1:30pm.  Meet Our Esteemed Panel: The panel discussion will be facilitated by Jodi Norgaard, keynote speaker and author of "More Than a Doll". She will be joined by an accomplished group of women leaders: Renee DiSanto – Park & Oak Karen Durante – FCA International (Construction Industry) Jenna Fash – Fash Counseling Jodi Henninger – Attorney Spaces are limited to 100 — reserve your spot today! Don’t miss this chance to be part of an unforgettable event that celebrates the power, resilience, and success of women in business.  Register now and join us for a day of connection, inspiration, and opportunity! Limited amount of expo tables available (19 x 5' tables) and limited seating at the luncheon (100).

Morton Arboretum Thornhill Education Center Parking Lot 21 4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle, IL 60532

Leads Group meeting

The Glen Ellyn Leads group is comprised of non-competing businesses that sell products and services to other businesses.  Members collaborate to form effective referral partnerships for the markets they serve.  Designed to be a marketing/advertising/promotional alternat......More

The Glen Ellyn Leads group is comprised of non-competing businesses that sell products and services to other businesses.  Members collaborate to form effective referral partnerships for the markets they serve.  Designed to be a marketing/advertising/promotional alternative aimed at increasing members' business and professional success.

TBD

Executive Board Meeting

This meeting is for the 2022 Executive Board to discuss topics for the upcoming Board of Directors meeting on the third Tuesday of every month. This meeting is for executive board members only.

TBA

10 Year Anniversary Ribbon Cutting at Main St Pub

Please join us on Fri, Nov 14th at 4pm to celebrate Main St Pub's 10-Year Anniversary! Ribbon Cutting at 4pm Complimentary light bites and wine to follow.

Main St Pub 466 Main St. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

Lego Batman - FREE Holiday Movie

Join us for a great Glen Ellyn Holiday tradition. Enjoy a FREE movie, Lego Batman at the Glen Art Theatre sponsored by The Law Office of Lofgren & Wentworth.

The Glen Art Theatre 540 Crescent Blvd. Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137

Glen Ellyn Chamber Board of Directors Meeting

The Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meet on the third Tuesday of each month. To be included on the Board meeting agenda. The Board of Directors do not meet the month of August. To view the list of current Board members, click on "Board and Staff" ......More

The Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meet on the third Tuesday of each month. To be included on the Board meeting agenda. The Board of Directors do not meet the month of August. To view the list of current Board members, click on "Board and Staff" under the "About" tab.

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