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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
Resolution authorizing membership in Chicago Anchors for a Strong Economy (CASE)
WHEREAS, the Chicago Anchors for a Strong Economy (“CASE”) is an initiative organized and spearheaded by World Business Chicago (“WBC”) to identify and prepare small and medium sized businesses for contracting opportunities with major and leading institutions like universities, hospitals, corporations etc. in the Chicagoland area; and
WHEREAS, CASE applies a data-driven approach to connecting “CASE-Ready” businesses to contracting opportunities based on the spend data collected to date from each “Anchor” business or organization. CASE assesses businesses via its proprietary, online business assessment and targeted matchmaking software; and
WHEREAS, Cook County’s (“County”) membership, by and through the Bureau of Economic Development, provides critical support to the operation of the CASE program; and
WHEREAS, Cook County’s participation fosters the growth of small to medium sized businesses thereby promoting wealth building and increasing local hiring opportunities; and
WHEREAS, with an understanding of Cook County’s economic development priorities, CASE will implement specific programming targeted to low and moderate-income communities in suburban Cook County.
WHEREAS, Cook County will renew its membership as an Anchor member of CASE and receive the benefits outlined in the 2019 Contribution Structure; and
WHEREAS, the Bureau of Economic Development desires to financially support the efforts of CASE and serve as an Anchor member to promote economic growth and expand employment opportunities for local businesses by contributing $25,000 to WBC; and
WHEREAS, WBC will work with Cook County to implement specific programming targeted to suburban Cook County to increase the number of suburban Cook County businesses assessed and their overall access to contracting opportunities; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Bureau of Economic Development to serve and fulfill its obligations as an Anchor member of CASE on behalf of Cook County and receive the benefits outlined in the 2019 Contribution Structure.
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