4th Annual Chicago Southwest Economic Summit
We look forward to seeing you later today, Thursday, September 10, at Richard J. Daley College. Registration and networking begin at 8:00 AM, with the opening program starting at 9:00 AM.
Below you’ll find key details to help you plan your day, including parking, campus entry information and the Summit schedule.
Parking and Arrival
The Summit will take place in the Main Building at Richard J. Daley College, but all attendees must enter campus through the Manufacturing Technology Engineering Center (MTEC).
For GPS and rideshare services, use:
4101 W. 76th Street, Chicago, IL 60652
The north parking lot is under construction, and GPS directions using Daley College’s main address may direct you to the closed lot.
If you are driving, park in the Student Parking Lot south of 76th Street, then walk to the MTEC entrance. If you are arriving by rideshare, ask your driver to drop you off directly at the MTEC entrance.
Enter through MTEC and use the pedestrian bridge that connects to the Main Building. Follow event signage to the Theatre lobby for Summit registration.
Campus Entry and Security Sign-In
All guests should be prepared to check in with campus security upon arrival and present a valid photo ID. Please allow a few extra minutes for entry before proceeding to Summit registration.
Hospitality
Coffee and a light breakfast will be available beginning at 8:00 AM. Lunch will be provided at 12:00 PM for all attendees.
Networking
The Summit is designed to spark new connections and collaborations. We encourage you to introduce yourself, exchange contact information and connect with fellow attendees throughout the day.
Take advantage of registration, coffee breaks, lunch and other informal moments to meet business, civic, nonprofit, education and community leaders from across the region.
Photography and Promotion
Photography and videography will take place throughout the Summit. By attending, you acknowledge that you may appear in photos or video captured during the event. Select content will be shared publicly following the Summit to highlight key moments and celebrate the day’s discussions.
Summit Timeline
8:00 AM | Registration, Coffee, and Networking
9:00 AM | Opening Program: Planning Through Change
10:35 AM | Networking Break
11:00 AM | Breakout Sessions I
Community Development Strategies for a Changing Southwest Side
How Small Manufacturers Can Protect Margins and Keep Growing
12:00 PM | Networking Lunch
12:45 PM | Breakout Sessions II
Accessing Capital in a Changing Economy
Philanthropy in Uncertain Times
1:50 PM | Photo Opportunities, Optional MTEC Tour, and Networking
Featured Summit Discussions
Opening Program: Planning Through Change
9:00-10:35 AM | Beattie Theatre
How can Chicago’s Southwest Side prepare for its next chapter? The morning program will examine the forces shaping the region, including infrastructure, economic development, public investment, manufacturing and changing community needs.
Regional leaders will share their perspectives before joining a moderated conversation focused on what these changes mean for Southwest Side businesses, institutions and residents.
Chicago’s own DJ Lady D will serve as Summit Emcee, guiding attendees through the day’s program. Collaboraction will bring its signature creative energy to the opening program through performances designed to frame the day’s conversations and themes.
Featured speakers:
Erin Aleman, Executive Director, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
Xochitl Flores, Bureau Chief, Cook County Bureau of Economic Development
Dr. Isaac Zúñiga, President, Richard J. Daley College
Adrian Soto, Executive Director, Greater Southwest Development Corporation
Jim Longino, Director of Industrial & Business Services, Greater Southwest Development Corporation, Moderator
Community Development Strategies for a Changing Southwest Side
11:00 AM-12:00 PM | Beattie Theatre
A look at how community development organizations, public partners and neighborhood stakeholders can guide investment while responding to changing conditions. The discussion will highlight the planning process behind emerging Southwest Side development initiatives and the partnerships needed to move projects from vision to implementation.
Panelists:
Cyrus Rivetna, Rivetna Architects Inc.
Adrian Soto, Greater Southwest Development Corporation
Moderator:
Christine James, Greater Southwest Development Corporation
How Small Manufacturers Can Protect Margins and Keep Growing
11:00 AM-12:00 PM | Room 1205
Manufacturers are navigating rising costs, workforce pressures and an uncertain economic environment. This practical discussion will examine strategies businesses can use to improve productivity, manage expenses, strengthen operations and continue investing in growth.
Panelists:
David Girzadas, Richard J. Daley College
Josh Grodzin, Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center
Mike Yucuis, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
Dan Zarco, Arcorp Structures
Moderator:
Jim Longino, Greater Southwest Development Corporation
Accessing Capital in a Changing Economy
12:45-1:45 PM | Beattie Theatre
Business owners need the right capital at the right stage of growth, but lending requirements, public programs and economic conditions continue to change. This session will explore funding opportunities, lender relationships and practical steps entrepreneurs can take to become better prepared for capital.
Panelists:
Angelica Garcilazo, Business owner, State Farm Insurance Agent
Eduardo Aguilar, Old National Bank
Moderator:
Manny Flores, SomerCor
Philanthropy in Uncertain Times
12:45-1:45 PM | Room 1205
Nonprofits and community organizations are navigating shifting funding priorities and growing demand for services. Philanthropic and community leaders will discuss what funders are seeing, how organizations can strengthen their positioning and partnerships, and how the sector can sustain community impact during a period of uncertainty.
Panelists:
Ryan Priester, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
Sendy Soto-Zavala, Mesa Visionary Strategies
Dan Tollefson, Chicago Community Trust
Moderator:
Giovanni Valdez, Greater Southwest Development Corporation
MTEC Tour, Photo Opportunities + Networking
Beginning at 1:50 PM
Following the breakout sessions, guests are invited to continue networking, participate in group photos and join an optional tour of the Manufacturing Technology Engineering Center.
The award-winning, 52,000-square-foot facility showcases Chicago’s investment in advanced manufacturing and engineering education.
Our Venue + Summit Partner: Richard J. Daley College
The Chicago Southwest Economic Summit will take place at Richard J. Daley College. All attendees should use 4101 W. 76th Street, Chicago, IL 60652 as their GPS or rideshare destination.
Guests will enter through the Manufacturing Technology Engineering Center and use the pedestrian bridge connecting MTEC to the Main Building.
Summit Organizer: Greater Southwest Development Corporation
Since 1974, Greater Southwest Development Corporation has served as a catalyst for community-driven investment, helping generate more than half a billion dollars in neighborhood development and renewed opportunity across Southwest Chicago.
GSDC’s annual Chicago Southwest Economic Summit convenes leaders to exchange ideas, build connections, and advance strategies that strengthen local businesses and communities.