Founded in April 2009 by businesses and residents in the 51st Street corridor, 51st Street Business Association is a non-profit 501 c3 working to make a difference in a distressed urban community. The purpose of 51st Street Business Association is to educate, inspire, empower, network and support the community, current businesses and aspiring small business owners within the Grand Boulevard, Washington Park and surrounding communities. The organization pilots economic development projects utilizing city, state, federal, philanthropic and community resources.

The 51st Street Business Association serves the area as a response to the lack of administrative services available throughout the community business area. The organization is a single point-of-service organization providing consultation services to businesses, entrepreneurs, community focused groups, and residents in Chicago’s Grand Boulevard and surrounding neighborhoods.