Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago (ICNC)

06/11/2026

Opportunities in action! 👩‍🏭👷‍♀️💼🧰
We had an incredible time connecting local talent with employers at the LIRI Job Fair today . Shoutout to everyone who attended, polished their resumes, and put their best foot forward!

06/10/2026

Great conversation and morning motivation at the Ward 27 Community Breakfast with .walterburnett yesterday. Grateful to all the community business members that came together to listen, share, and grow. Swipe to see some highlights!

See you at the next one in September!

04/16/2026

👀🍽️Dreaming about starting a food business but not sure where to begin? This class is your roadmap! Join our experts for an insider session on what it really takes to launch a food business in Chicagoland—from industry trends and lean startup strategy to legal structure and commercial kitchen options. You’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a Licensing & Production Checklist to guide your next steps.

💥 Only $40 (free for West Side residents)
🎟️ Spots are limited—sign up now! https://hubs.ly/Q04cgldd0

Tag someone who needs this 👇

04/02/2026

Are you building, pivoting, or scaling? Join us for an interactive evening designed to help founders turn customer insights into real-world impact.
GET YOUR TICKET: https://hubs.ly/Q047YxFk0

We’re diving deep into what separates products that stall from those that soar.
What’s on the menu:
◾Validating Demand: How to know if your customers actually want what you’re selling.
◾Smart Pivoting: Real stories on how to respond when things don't go to plan.
◾Expert Strategy: Tactical advice on navigating the "messy middle" of growth.

Meet the Panel:
✨ Luke Saunders: Founder and CEO of Farmer's Fridge.
✨ Melanie Bartelme: Global Food Analyst at Mintel, the authority on consumer trends and innovation.
✨ Rifle Hughes: Co-Founder of Integral CPG and seasoned mentor for emerging brands.
✨ Glenn Pappalardo: Former COO of RXBAR (International) and Strategy lead at Kashi.

Come for the insights, stay for the light snacks and beverages! 🥂

04/02/2026

ICNC & had a productive roundtable discussion with Chicago makers on April 1. Coming together to share experiences and lessons not only helps entrepreneurs feel less alone, but offers a valuable opportunity to learn, grow, and make meaningful connections.
Did you miss out on this event? Make sure you're following us and check out the link in bio to see upcoming events!

03/24/2026

This session is a must-attend for anyone who has moved past the honeymoon phase of their food business and is now staring down the growing pains phase. Join Food For Thought co-founder Tim Garcia at The Hatchery Chicago to explore both the practical and philosophical hurdles that arise as businesses evolve, with insights on how to make meaningful changes, refine systems, and approach the next stage of growth with confidence and clarity. SAVE YOUR SEAT: https://hubs.ly/Q047Wl_r0

03/23/2026

We are excited to partner with the Women's Business Development Center to host a round-table event for manufacturers, CPG companies, and other makers! This is a free networking event that will include engaging breakout sessions with fellow business leaders, business service organizations, and decision-makers to share challenges, brainstorm solutions, and celebrate successes. LEARN MORE & SIGN UP: https://hubs.ly/Q047WQJW0

03/20/2026

ICNC is thrilled to welcome Katherine Valleau to the team as the new The Hatchery Chicago Entrepreneur Engagement Manager! READ MORE:

ICNC welcomes new Entrepreneur Engagement Manager to The Hatchery.

03/08/2026

Happy International Women's Day! The demographic transformation of the ICNC core portfolio represents one of the most significant achievements in the organization's history. These numbers demonstrate that intentional support for women and BIPOC entrepreneurs creates measurable economic impact.
https://hubs.ly/Q045Z0mt0

02/17/2026

Join us as we host the Ward 27 Community Breakfast with Alderman Walter Redmond Burnett III at ICNC Make City. Enjoy a light breakfast and an opportunity to connect directly with the Alderman to share your insights and engage in a conversation about the future of our business community. This is a free event. RSVP: https://hubs.ly/Q0434vWF0