Business Advising at the Chamber Helps Entrepreneurs Ask the Right Questions

Meet our Mentors

When building a new business, you have to start with a strong foundation. To help entrepreneurs develop their ideas on a sound footing, the Chamber hosts complimentary business advising sessions each month with mentors from SCORE and SBDC-Oakton College.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization that helps entrepreneurs and small business owners start and grow their businesses. In partnership with the US Small Business Administration, SCORE provides free expert advice, education and resources to support business success, with a nationwide network of over 10,000 mentors.

SCORE mentor Steve Fisher has partnered with the Chamber since 2025, sharing his experience in wholesale merchandising, retail sales, international business and construction materials. Throughout his career, Steve worked for international brands as well as small startups. He works with aspiring business owners to deepen their knowledge of the market they are entering, suggesting tools, resources and strategies that should be explored to lay the foundation for starting a new company. 

Partnering with Steve for our monthly mentoring sessions is Shaye Rosengarden from the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Oakton College. SBDC assists entrepreneurs to start and grow their small businesses by providing no-cost advising, as well as guidance to develop business and marketing plans, secure capital funding, and assist with business management needs. Shaye works with business owners to connect with SBDC programs, and brings his own expertise in marketing and social media to advising sessions.

Steve and Shaye are available for 60-minute advising sessions at the Chamber on the third Wednesday of the month, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. This is also a great opportunity to meet with Chamber staff about how to maximize your member benefits, or learn about programs offered through the Cook County Small Business Source! Sign up on the Chamber website for your preferred time slot, or contact our office for alternative appointment times.

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