Wright to Business Conference

We are bringing the city’s top resources together all in one place for this exclusive, completely FREE, one-day event! Join us at Wilbur Wright College for the Wright to Business Conference, a high-energy collision of education and capital. This is more than an event; it’s your direct entry point into Chicago’s business ecosystem and a roadmap to success in your own backyard.

“By investing in people’s potential, we are investing in Chicago’s local economy.”
— Mayor Brandon Johnson

Wright to Business Conference Agenda – April 17, 2026

8:30 – 9:15 AM | Check-In and Registration

Professional Headshots: Early check-in bonus! Sign up for a first-come, first-served free professional headshot, available during the event.

9:15 AM – 9:40 AM | Welcome Remarks & Call to Action

  • Andres Oroz, President, Wilbur Wright College

  • Kay Villamin, Executive Director, North River Commission

  • Lotika Pai, Chicago Chief Small Business Officer & Managing Deputy Commissioner, BACP

9:45 AM – 11:45 AM | Breakout Sessions

Attendees may choose three 30-minute sessions to attend: (9:45, 10:25, 11:05 AM)

  • What is BACP? | City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection

  • How Do I Fund My Business? | Accessing Capital & Grants

  • Credit for Prior Learning | Translating Experience into Academic Credit

  • How to Write a Business Plan | Essential Foundations for Growth

  • Small Business Resources from BED | Bureau of Economic Development Insights

11:45 AM – 12:30 PM | Panel Discussion

Building and Growing a Business in Our Community

12:30 PM – 1:00 PM | Closing Remarks & Networking

Final wrap-up and open networking in the Atrium.

 

  • BACP Entrepreneur Certificate Program:

    Gain official recognition from the City of Chicago. This program provides the essential blueprint for starting and growing a business in the city. You will learn the "how-to" of city inspections, business operations, legal compliance, and marketing.

  • The CIBC Entrepreneur Loan:

    Graduates of the BACP Certificate Program are uniquely eligible to apply for the CIBC Bank USA Entrepreneur Loan Program.

    Small Business Funding: Access low-interest, no-fee loans ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for startups, and up to $25,000 for businesses with at least one year of tax returns.

    Learn the specific criteria CIBC uses to evaluate loan eligibility and how to build a professional credit profile.

  • Credit for Prior Learning (CPL):

    Turn your entrepreneurial training into academic success. Under the new Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) initiative, completing this program allows you to earn 3 college credits for Business 111 (Introduction to Business) at Wright College.

    Save Time & Money: Bypass a full semester course by demonstrating your knowledge through the BACP certification and a digital challenge exam.

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