E-Commerce Growth Program
Help grow your business online through coaching, digital strategy, and e-commerce support. Read More
Local Business Owners
Entrepreneurship Essentials (E2): Competitive Intelligence – Using AI, with Phil Leslie
Join the Polsky Center and Phil Leslie for an informative workshop on using AI for a competitive edge in your startup. In a world where AI is reshaping every industry, gaining competitive advantage is not just about using the latest tools—it is about understanding how to apply them strategically. This… Read More
Polsky Exchange Member Year-End Lunch
Polsky Exchange Members are invited to join us in celebrating the end of the year. Please join us for a catered lunch as we commemorate our accomplishments together. Read More
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) On Deck Pitch
The Polsky Exchange On Deck Pitch is a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) initiative designed to help entrepreneurs develop and refine their pitching skills and prepare to effectively present their businesses to potential investors or lenders. Join as an observer to watch small businesses pitch. Your feedback on the various… Read More
Polsky Exchange Member Breakfast & Quarterly Reporting Session
Join us for a special edition of our Polsky Exchange Member Breakfast, combined with our 2025 Quarterly Reporting Session. This gathering is designed to foster community, provide updates on member progress, and share how your reporting insights help shape the programs, resources, and funding support at the Polsky Exchange. We’ll… Read More
Business Acumen Series: Crafting a LinkedIn Presence That Attracts Clients
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression potential clients or customers have of you, make it count. This hands-on workshop will guide participants through the art of aligning your tone, language, and content with the expectations of your target audience on LinkedIn. You’ll gain a deep understanding of how your… Read More
Business Acumen: What to Know Before Moving into a Physical Space
Thinking about opening a physical location or expanding into a storefront, office, or commercial space? Before you sign that lease, join us for this essential session designed to help small business owners make informed, confident decisions. This workshop will cover: Key financial considerations before leasing a space How to evaluate… Read More
Application Deadline: Small Business Financial Fundamentals Program, Client Cohort, Winter Quarter
The Polsky Small Business Financial Fundamentals begins with a nine week intensive program occurring January – March 2026 for South or West side businesses to receive tailored technical assistance and consultation related to financial capital pathways and preparedness, business finance education, and coaching.
Application Deadline: Small Business Growth Program, Client Cohort
The Polsky Small Business Growth Program is a nine-month program that supports small business owners to help them grow and scale their businesses through consulting work completed by top University of Chicago student talent under the direction and support of Booth faculty, Polsky staff and external coaches. Eligibility requirements:… Read More
Building Your Food and Beverage Business: Allies for Community Business (A4CB) + The Hatchery Chicago
Are you a food and beverage entrepreneur looking for resources to support and grow your business? Join us for this collaborative workshop with Allies for Community Business (A4CB) and The Hatchery Chicago, organizations dedicated to supporting small business owners in the food industry. In this session, you’ll learn: Food &… Read More
Business Acumen Series: Sales Strategy for Consistent Revenue
This session will offer an entrepreneurial approach to sales, tailored specifically for founders and small business owners who may not have formal sales training but are ready to grow. You’ll learn how to: Understand your customer’s decision-making journey Build a simple but effective sales funnel Communicate your value in ways that… Read More
Polsky Office Hours @ Booth 455 featuring Juliet Twomey
The Polsky Center will feature staff members at the Gleacher Center campus a few times during the fall quarter! These office hours will take place at Booth 455 (across the street from Gleacher in the NBC building) and are drop in so no registration or appointment is necessary. This is a… Read More