Strategic Exceptions Professional Consulting

Trailblazing Women in Our Community
2022-03-26
Our CEO, Terrie Simmons, was so honored and excited to participate in this event alongside Congressman Foster, and these other wonderful guests🙏! She’s humbled to be considered a ‘Trailblazer’ in our community 🔥.
Check out our discussion about celebrating trailblazing women from the community, their stories and experiences, and hearing their advice to young women today.

In-Person: Informational Resource Fair for Business Owners
2022-04-25 09:00 (America/Kentucky/Louisville)
We’re so proud to be part of hosting the very FIRST Resources Fair on April 25, 2022. In partnership with Senator Karina Villa and the Aurora Regional Hispanic Chamber, the IL MBDA Business Center and Strategic Exceptions is hosting an informational resource fair for business owners . Register to learn how to become an expert in:
Marketing & Branding
Networking
State Resources & DCEO funding structure and required documentation.
Scan the QR code or click the link below to sign up for FREE!

Feel Good Virtual 5K 2022
2022-05-01 - 2022-05-31
Talented Tenths Social Services, Inc, presents the Feel Good Virtual 5K 2022. An event to increase awareness and decrease the stigma of mental health. Join us to empower individuals to take part in nature during this pandemic.

Feel Good Virtual 5K 2022 Kick Off
2022-05-01 09:00 - 11:00 UTC
Sponsored by the Talented Tenth Social Services, Inc. The feel good virtual 5K 2022 kickoff.
Starting at 9 am on May 1, 2022.

Grand Opening of Silver Spoon Desserts in Chicago
2022-05-04 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | Silver Spoons Desserts, 3501 W. 48th Place #2W, Chicago, 60632, United States
Black Aurora business woman, Tamara Turner will be hosting a Grand Opening of Silver Spoon Desserts on Wednesday, May 4, 2022.
In May 2021, after working with a catering company providing food service for American Airlines, Turner then was asked to have her desserts served on the airlines’ domestic flights. Turner recently moved her business to a 16,000 –square-foot building in Chicago, to accommodate the influx of orders for American Airlines. It was a new home for Silver Spoon Desserts, and another success story for Black women business owners.

In-Person: Informational Resource Fair for Business Owners
2022-05-16 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Kentucky/Louisville)
We’re so proud to be part of hosting the very FIRST Resources Fair on May 16, 2022. In partnership with Senator Karina Villa and the Aurora Regional Hispanic Chamber, the IL MBDA Business Center and Strategic Exceptions is hosting an informational resource fair for business owners . Register to learn how to become an expert in:
Marketing & Branding
Networking
State Resources & DCEO funding structure and required documentation.
Scan the QR code or click the link below to sign up for FREE!

Fox Valley Area Feel Good Fair Mental Health Resources
2022-05-21 11:00 - 14:00 UTC
Multiple mental health resources all in one location.
For more information about the event, contact Monica at Monica@talentedtenthss.org
Sign up ends May 1, 2022

Business Credit Essentials
2022-10-17 18:00 - 19:00 UTC | Zoom
This Business Credit Essentials workshop is for new or existing business owners to better understand how financial institutions look at you and your business when applying for any commercial loan. After this class, you will be able to identify the steps needed in order to get you and your business ready to apply for commercial credit.
REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/433799184037

The Source Grow Grant Workshop
2022-10-19 09:00 - 2022-10-20 12:00 UTC | In-Person and Zoom
$10,000 grants for small businesses, prioritizing those owned by historically excluded populations and in sectors hard hit by the pandemic.
Register for this in-person (Oct 19th) or virtual (Oct 20th) workshop to prepare to apply for the Cook County Source Grow Grant if your business:

Is a for-profit business in Cook County, IL
Has less than 20 employees
Has operated and conducted business since 2020
Has experienced a negative financial impact due to the COVID-19 pandemic

REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/the-source-grow-grant-workshop-1271429?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb

Bonds and Insurance Basics Workshop
2023-01-24 16:00 - 17:00 UTC | Zoom
Did you know that the U.S. government requires every contractor it works with to purchase a surety bond or insurance to ensure their work will be completed in a timely and cost-effective manner?
Are you a minority business owner who wants to get federal, state & local government contracts? Join us to learn about the most common types of bonds and insurance your business needs to get contracts from federal, state & local municipalities. After this class, you will better understand the requirements you may have in your journey to working with federal, state, and local municipalities.
REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bonds-insurance-basics-workshop-tickets-510746997017

2023 SYMPOSIUM: WHAT'S IN THE NEW INFRASTRUCTURE BILL FOR YOU?
2023-02-08 09:00 - 15:00 UTC | Malcolm X College, 1900 W Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60612, United States
Join the Illinois Minority Business Development Agency (IL MBDA) Business Center for our 2023 SYMPOSIUM: WHAT’S IN THE NEW INFRASTRUCTURE BILL FOR YOU?

We will bring together minority businesses and corporations & government contract holders at the local and national levels to showcase & connect businesses and share business & partnership opportunities that are possible through the new infrastructure bill.
Register here today to attend as a vendor, partner, sponsor, or attendee of this very special business showcase.
REGISTER HERE: https://strategicexceptions.com/new-infrastructure-bill-event/

Business Essentials Workshop
2023-04-25 16:00 - 17:00 UTC | Zoom
This Business Essentials workshop is to help new or existing business owners better understand fundamental business financial concepts and how you, as a business owner, can leverage them to grow your operation and run a profitable business. After this class, you will be able to identify the steps needed to get familiar with your business’s financial infrastructure and set your business on track for success.
REGISTER HERE: : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/business-essentials-tickets-602814724067

Tax Strategies and Financial Readiness Webinar
2023-07-27 00:00 UTC
This Business Essentials workshop is to help new or existing business owners better understand tax strategies and financial readiness. Discover valuable insights and practical tips for optimizing your financial situation, whether you’re a business owner, investor, or simply interested in securing a better financial future.
REGISTER HERE: : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/business-essentials-tickets-602814724067

The Friendship Talk
2023-08-02 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | Gabriela Reyna, 1 East Benton St, Aurora, IL, 60505, United States
The Friendship Talk: Healing our brokenness and clearing a path to hearts open to love and relationships
Join us for an inspiring evening of connection and empowerment at The Friendship Talk! Whether you’re looking to expand your network, build your business, gain valuable insights, or simply enjoy a night of laughter and camaraderie, The Friendship Talk is the perfect event for you.
Throughout the evening, we’ll have engaging discussions and thought-provoking presentations focused on personal growth, self-care, and building strong connections. We will also discuss the challenges to securing contracts and accessing capital and how important it is to connect with the right TRIBE who will help you put your oxygen mask on FIRST!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded men and women and be a part of a supportive community. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable evening of friendship and empowerment!
P.S. Free Professional Headshots from 5:30 PM-6:30 PM by appointment only.
REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-womens-friendship-talk-registration-670791755197?aff=oddtdtcreator

2023 Illinois MBDA Business & Entrepreneur Summit at Elgin Community College
2023-08-15 09:00 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive Building E, Room: E125/Seigle Auditorium, Elgin, IL, 60612
Join the Illinois Minority Business Development Agency (IL MBDA) Business Center Business & Entrepreneur Event at Elgin Community College

At the Business & Entrepreneur Summit, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and successful entrepreneurs. Our lineup of speakers will share their valuable insights, strategies, and experiences to help you thrive in the business world.
REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/676679054267

2023: BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY BUILDING GOLF OUTING
2023-09-15 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | The Highlands of Elgin, 875 Sports Way, Elgin, IL, 60123, United States
Join us for a day of giving back and networking at BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY BUILDING GOLF-OUTING!
We are bringing together business and community for a day of giving back and networking that is centered around:

Providing scholarships & grants and assisting minority business enterprises in securing financing, contracts & resources to build their businesses for long-term success.
Connecting corporations, minority businesses, government, state, and local agencies to foster relationships and business development.
Raising funds to provide underserved communities with programming and services designed to build stronger communities and close the income gap.

Join Strategic Exceptions Professional Consulting, operator of the Illinois MBDA Business Center and Lewis Simmons Foundation, and our Strategic Partners on Friday, September 15, 2023, from 10:00 am at The Highlands of Elgin.
Register here today to attend as a sponsor or attendee
REGISTER HERE: https://strategicexceptions.com/golf-outing-event/

Creating Impact Community and Legacy Virtual Workshop
2023-12-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
This workshop is to help new or existing business owners discover the POWER of small businesses as we delve into their remarkable impact on communities and the lasting legacies they create. From innovative ideas to unique approaches, this virtual workshop will showcase the incredible achievements of small business owners.

REGISTER HERE: : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/creating-impact

2024 CLEAN ENERGY BUSINESS SUMMIT
2024-02-29 09:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago)
Join the Illinois Minority Business Development Agency (IL MBDA) Business Center for our 2024 CLEAN ENERGY BUSINESS SUMMIT

We will bring together minority businesses and corporations & government contract holders at the local and national levels to showcase & connect businesses and share business & partnership opportunities that are possible through Clean Energy Initiatives.
Register here today to attend as a vendor, partner, sponsor, or attendee of this very special business showcase.
REGISTER HERE: https://strategicexceptions.com/clean-energy-business-summit/

Labor and Employment Law Basics Workshop
2024-04-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
With labor and employment law changes escalating, join us for a refresh and primer on US labor and employment law basics that all employers should know.
Barnes & Thornburg’s Labor and Employment Law partner, Terese Connolly, will cover developments in the law and provide guidance on best practices. Gain a better understanding of how to comply with various employment laws, which will in turn create a better workplace culture.
The workshop will include the following topics:
1. Best Practices for EEO Compliance (including Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Harassment)
2. Employee Handbooks in Light of Recent NLRB Rulings
3. FLSA Compliance and Recent Updates

Who is the event catered to?
Business Owners and CEOs, Business Leaders, HR, and Management Level Employees who want to learn about or refresh your knowledge on the basics of Employment Laws in the US
REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/labor-and-employment-law-basics-workshop-tickets-876661477077

2024: 2nd Annual Lewis Simmons Foundation Community Building Classic
2024-09-20 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Orchard Valley Golf Course, 2411 West Illinois Ave, Aurora, IL, 60506, United States
Join us for a day of giving back and networking at COMMUNITY BUILDING CLASSIC!
Enjoy a day on the green as you make a difference while forging long-lasting business connections that could lead to lucrative deals. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, this outing is perfect for all skill levels. We are bringing together business and community to:

Partner with Document the Abuse in our steadfast support of women whose lives have been impacted by sexual assault and domestic violence, yet are still able to flourish as entrepreneurs and engaged citizens. Proceeds from this event will allow for the continued support needed and enable us to provide scholarships to those who have been impacted

Connect corporations, minority businesses, government, state, nonprofits, and local agencies to foster relationships and business development

Raise funds to provide underserved communities with programming and services designed to build stronger communities and close the income gap.

Join Strategic Exceptions Professional Consulting, operator of the Illinois MBDA Business Center and Lewis Simmons Foundation, and our Strategic Partners on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 1:00 pm at Orchard Valley Golf Course.
Register here today to attend as a sponsor or attendee
REGISTER HERE: https://www.golfinvite.net/lsfoundationgolfouting

Master the Art of Grant Writing: Strategies for Success
2024-10-28 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | BMO, 500 Half Day Road, Buffalo Grove, 60089, United States
To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mastering-the-art-of-grant-writing-strategies-for-success-tickets-1021747553437

Kickstart 2025 with Confidence: Master Your Lease and Secure Funding to Fuel Your Business Growth
2024-12-11 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kickstart-2025-with-confidence-tickets-1084501706799?aff=oddtdtcreator

Pre-Summit Preparation Bootcamp
2025-01-21 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
Is your business ready for the upcoming 3rd Annual IL-MBDA Business Summit?
Ensure you’re ready by attending this Pre-Summit Preparation Bootcamp, so that you get the most out of the Summit. Join us for a comprehensive 2 week/4 session bootcamp that covers the critical topics, to get you Summit Savvy!

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pre-summit-bootcamp-be-summit-ready-tickets-1107171753519?aff=oddtdtcreator

Export Success: Tools and Best Practices
2025-02-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
To register: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89995801218?pwd=[REDACTED]

3rd Annual IL MBDA BUSINESS CENTER SUMMIT
2025-03-13 07:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Malcolm X College, 1900 W Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60612, United States
Register Here: https://strategicexceptions.com/illinois-mbda-2/annual-il-mbda-business-center-summit-v2/

For sponsorship information, email us at: info@strategicexceptions.com

Lewis Simmons Foundation: 3rd Annual Community Building Classic
2025-09-08 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Fox Bend Golf Course, 3516 US-34, Oswego, IL, 60543, United States
Click here for more info: Community Building Golf Classic – Strategic Exceptions Professional Consulting
Register now: https://www.golfinvite.net/lsfoundationgolfouting

4th Annual Connect & Contract Summit
2026-03-30 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Save the date for the 2026 Connect & Contract Summit, presented by the Strategic Exceptions Business Service Center, hosted on March 30th, 2026!
Join us for this dynamic event designed to spark connections, power new partnerships, and fuel your future! Scan the QR code or visit this link HERE to learn more.
Bonus: The Second Annual Women’s VIP Reception will be hosted on March 29, 2026. Join us for an evening of fun, food, entertainment, networking, and more!
