West Ridge Chamber of Commerce Mission

The West Ridge Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization for businesses and organizations who seek through their united efforts to improve the business community in the West Ridge Neighborhood, attract new businesses and shoppers and improve the appearance of the neighborhood. We are a 501(c) 6 agency that is funded in part by the City of Chicago's Department of Housing & Economic Development.

The West Ridge Chamber of Commerce also works as a collective voice for the neighborhood and business community on legislation relating to the area in Washington DC and our state capital.

Membership dues and funding from the City helps the WRCC accomplish these goals:
  • Development and distribution of  newsletters, brochures and other marketing and promotional materials about the community
  • Development of sales promotions and holiday celebrations to attract additional shoppers to the area
  • Providing local businesses with the opportunity to network and attend presentations on topics of interest
  • Working with merchants on cooperative advertising programs
  • Helping business owners take advantage of City programs such as Graffiti Blasters, Business Express, Facade Rebate and Minority Certification
  • Partnerships with other local community groups on projects that benefit the area
  • Provide technical assistance to area businesses
  • Promoting area economic development
 

WRCC Accomplishments

Assisted 28 community businesses in successfully enrolling and completing the City of Chicago Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) Grant Program

Established Special Service Area (SSA) #43 Devon Avenue in 2006 and remains the Service Provider of the Project

Winner of the 2011 City of Chicago Neighborhood Paper Drive

Assisted local businesses in participating in the City of Chicago TIF Works Program (2012, 2013, 2014)

Worked with Choose Chicago to have West Ridge as one of the featured neighborhoods on the popular travel site

Participated in the Local First Chicago Holiday Buy Local Campaign (2010-present)

Recognized as a 2010 US Census Partner

Participated in The Chicago Architecture Foundation's Open House Chicago, bringing thousands of people to our community