2025 SECC Southside Connection Symposium

South East Chicago Commission (SECC) will host “Connect. Collaborate. Thrive.” its 7th annual regional economic development symposium on Friday, October 10, 2025 at The David Rubenstein Forum.

Small business owners, economic development professionals, and civic leaders are invited to learn best practices and strategies to grow, scale, and sustain their businesses and business communities.

The 2025 SECC Southside Connection Symposium, presented by Allstate, will begin with a networking meet and greet including business resource tables, coffee conversations and a light continental breakfast.

At 9:00 am the Symposium commences with welcome remarks and the keynote conversation "Unlocking the South Side Advantage.”

Keynote Conversation Speakers

• Dorri McWhorter, President and CEO, Executives’ Club of Chicago
• John A. Roberson, Executive Vice President, Obama Presidential Center
• Rev. Dr. Charlie E. Dates, Senior Pastor, Progressive & Salem Baptist Church

This conversation explores how the South Side’s unique assets, energy, and investments can be leveraged to fuel business growth and economic resilience. Guest speakers will inform the audience about the opportunities presented by new developments, the power of cross-sector collaboration, and strategies to ensure that growth is inclusive and community-centered. What needs to happen to propel the South Side forward into its next level of thriving—for businesses, residents, and the region at large?

Public Sector Panel

The Power of Connection & Collaboration

The Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC) will lead an insightful “State of the State” Aldermanic forum featuring a conversation about how South Side businesses can develop stronger ties and strategic partnerships. This panel will explore collaborative opportunities to achieve mutual growth, amplify community impact, and navigate the evolving landscape of Chicago’s South Side for collective success.

Elliot Richardson, the Co-Founder and President of the Small Business Advocacy Council, will moderate this engagement with elected officials including:

Pat Dowell, Alderman, 3rd Ward

Lamont Robinson, Alderman, 4th Ward

Desmon Yancy, Alderman, 5th Ward

Jeanette Taylor, Alderman, 20th Ward

The 2025 Southside Connection Symposium is supported by: Allstate, Comcast, The Smith Fund, Charity & Associates, Choose Chicago, CIBC, Chicago Community Loan Fund, The Study, Sophy Hyde Park and CEI Media Group.

For more information, visit www.secc-chicago.org/symposium.