Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson kicks off National Small Business Week with call to support local shops

CHICAGO (WGN) — National Small Business week is underway and on Monday, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson highlighted the city’s small businesses.

Small Business Week runs from May 4 through May 10 and aims to recognize the contributions and importance of small businesses across the United States.

Mayor Johnson calls small businesses the heart of Chicago’s communities and the backbone of the city’s economy.

To kick off the week, he spoke at Play-Hyde Park, a south side toy store. He urged others to support local entrepreneurs.

“It’s time we actually spend some money in our small businesses so that we can generate the revenue that keeps them moving forward and continues to allow them to employ right here in our communities,” Mayor Johnson said.

Following Small Business Week is the Chicago Small Business Expo, which will take place on May 31 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kennedy-Kling College.

“I believe in investing in the future of communities and that begins by empowering the very people who create jobs, serve neighborhoods and fuel innovation,” Mayor Johnson said.

For more information on the business expo, click here.