SPONSORS
ABOUT THIS EVENT
Fueling growth. Together.
Save the date for the 2026 Connect & Contract Summit, presented by the Strategic Business Service Center. Join us for this dynamic event designed to spark connections, power new partnerships, and fuel your future!
Day 1 | Sunday, March 29, 2026
SHE LEADS: A Celebration of Women in Leadership
* Times are subject to change.
Enjoy themed champagne mimosas, coffee, tea, juice, and wine, all while enjoying live music!
Day 2 | Monday, March 30, 2026
Connect & Contract Summit: Fueling Growth Together
* Times are subject to change.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
Attending the Business Summit could be a game-changer for you! Explore the benefits of joining us as we delve into top sectors like renewable energy, carbon capture, energy efficiency (including green construction), smart grid and ICT solutions, critical infrastructure cybersecurity, climate disaster recovery solutions, electric vehicle and smart transportation technology, and more.
This summit is your gateway to networking and seizing opportunities in these thriving industries. Don't miss out on the chance to revolutionize your business!
Interested in becoming a sponsor, vendor, or contributor for our upcoming event? Our annual business and community initiatives bring together 1000s of MBEs from across the globe where business relationships are cultivated. When you partner with us, you get:
- A structured program to assist in meeting your Corporate Social Responsibility and DEI goals
- Access to and increased visibility in global markets
- An avenue to provide technical assistance for small businesses and job training for individuals
- A consistent pipeline of diverse businesses that can fulfill corporate procurement needs
- A network of trained business experts
- A pipeline for sub and prime contractors
- Contractor mentorship program
SHE LEADS VIP BRUNCH
The SHE Leads VIP brunch takes place March Sunday, 29th at 8:00 AM. Join us for a day of fun, food, entertainment, networking, and more at our 2nd annual VIP Women's reception!
The VIP will be held at Hyatt House Chicago-Medical/University District, 1835 West Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60612
SUMMIT LOCATION
The summit will be hosted at Malcolm X College (MXC), which is conveniently located near the Illinois Medical District and offers one of the largest selections of health sciences degrees in Cook County. MXC is situated near the birthplace of the City Colleges of Chicago, Crane Junior College, which was established in 1911 at the corner of Jackson and Oakley.
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