Four Chicago businesses were recognized as “Locally Beloved” during National Small Business Week and found their way to a noteworthy ranking.
Chicago Pet Sitters, Windy City Wedding Dance, Rogers Park Provisions and Play were all named to Yelp's “100 Best Local Businesses” list, which was released to coincide with the annual week that celebrates the impacts small businesses have on communities.
The four companies rank highly among users “for their ability to shape communities' identities, fuel economy, and, most importantly, foster a sense of belonging among residents,” according to Yelp.
“We were really excited,” said Amber Wagner, director of Windy City Wedding Dance.
The studio was established in 2013, and has since expanded to include four locations.
The instructors specialize in dancing, especially teaching new couples.
“We stay connected with our students in a way that I think no other major studio does,” Wagner said.
Yelp selected companies by first identifying independently owned and operated companies in the automotive space; beauty; Books, magazines, music and videos; Fitness and exercise; fashion; food; Home decoration; Home repair and renovation; Children's activities and pet care classes.
Yelp told NBC Chicago that it then ranked businesses within each category using a number of factors including overall volume and review ratings.
“I was blown away,” said McLean Schweiger, director of Rogers Park Provisions. “For all the hard work we put into a place like this, it's so nice to be recognised, especially being a small business like we are.”
The store is a modern “general store” with locally and regionally curated provisions.
“Get out there and support the local community as much as you can, as much as you can, because it really makes a difference. We are your neighbors. We are here for you as much as you are here for us,” Schweiger said. .
Play has four locations across the city and 18 employees.
“We try to do things that are unique and different that represent the city and our neighborhoods,” said owner Anne Kienzle. “Small businesses are the fabric of the community. We bring culture, diversity, character and charm, all those things that make a neighborhood special.”
The United States is experiencing a “small business boom,” according to the Small Business Administration.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) says more than 17 million new business applications have been filed since 2020. Illinois has seen 42,000 applications so far in 2024, and businesses are starting at faster rates than pre-pandemic levels.
A small business is defined as having fewer than 500 employees. However, nearly 70% have less than 20.
“They create two-thirds of the jobs in America,” said Jerry Aglipay, SBA's Great Lakes regional director. “Every time you start a small business, it's a sign of hope. It's also a symbol of confidence in the American economy.”
Small Business Week runs from April 28 to May 4, according to officials.
