Supporting Local Businesses in Illinois

Local businesses create character, jobs, and community connections that chains can't replicate.

Why Shop Local?

Economic Impact

• $0.68 of every dollar stays in community (vs $0.43 for chains)

• Local businesses employ neighbors

• Tax revenue supports local services

• Creates unique destinations worth visiting

Community Benefits

• Business owners are neighbors

• Personalized service and knowledge

• Unique products you won't find elsewhere

• Community gathering spaces

Historic Shopping Districts

Chicago

Andersonville (Clark St.) Independent boutiques, Swedish heritage shops, great restaurants.

Wicker Park/Bucktown (Division/Damen) Fashion, vintage, local designers, bookstores.

Hyde Park (53rd Street) Seminary Co-op Bookstore, local restaurants, university-adjacent.

Pilsen (18th Street) Art galleries, Mexican bakeries, vintage shops.

Suburbs

Downtown Naperville Walkable, curated mix of local and national, Riverwalk setting.

Downtown Geneva Antiques, boutiques, Fox River charm.

Downtown Long Grove Historic covered bridge village, craft shops.

Downtown Wheaton Bookstores, cafes, local boutiques.

Downstate

Old Capitol Art Fair area (Springfield) Galleries and local shops near historic sites.

Downtown Galena Antiques, art galleries, wine tasting.

Champaign Downtown Near campus, independent bookstores and shops.

Local Business Directories

Finding Local Options

• Illinois Products - Buy Illinois-made

• Choose DuPage - DuPage County directory

• Local chambers of commerce - Business directories

• Our Illinois Community discussions - Member recommendations

Categories to Explore

• Independent bookstores

• Local coffee roasters

• Craft breweries

• Farm-to-table restaurants

• Boutique clothing stores

• Local service providers

Small Business Support Programs

For Shoppers

• Gift card purchases help cash flow

• Social media shares boost visibility

• Positive reviews matter enormously

• Word of mouth referrals

For Business Owners

• Illinois SBDC (Small Business Development Centers)

• SCORE mentoring

• Illinois Department of Commerce resources

• Local chamber membership

Shopping Local Year-Round

Regular Habits

• Default to local before Amazon

• Check local shops before big box

• Use local service providers

• Eat at independent restaurants

Special Occasions

• Gifts from local artisans

• Local experiences as presents

• Supporting businesses for events

• Hiring local contractors

Seasonal Opportunities

• Holiday shopping at local shops

• Farmers markets in season

• Local craft fairs

• Restaurant weeks and local promotions