Small Business
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How to protect yourself from moving scamsApr 30, 2026 2:10 pm - This year’s moving season could be the best yet for scammers — and the worst yet for families — because AI is improving con artists’ techniques. “With AI, the fraudsters are very convincing and effective,” said Steve J. Bernas, BBB president and CEO. “The phony websites look genuine, the wording is professional, and the online reviews are excellent, but fake.”
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Illinois retailers celebrate early successes of state-funded apprenticeship program
Apr 30, 2026 1:43 pm - A first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program in Illinois launched by the Illinois Retail Merchants Association provides online college coursework and real-life experience. The program, announced earlier this year, provides management training and experience, usually for employees already working for a company. Employers who enroll current or future employees in the program can receive up to $5,000 in tax credits per apprentice.
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Huntley’s Shops on Main opens for first full season on FridayApr 29, 2026 8:59 am - Huntley’s Shops on Main retail incubator program kicks off its first full operating season on Friday. The 10 storefronts located in the heart of downtown at 11879 Main St. will welcome visitors every weekend through Dec. 20.
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‘A consummate networker’: Elgin Chamber of Commerce president to retireApr 28, 2026 2:31 pm - Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Carol Gieske this week announced her retirement after years of leadership and service to the business community.
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‘Made in Elgin’ pop-up market returns May 2
Apr 28, 2026 2:25 pm - The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin will hold a second “Made in Elgin” Spring Pop-Up Market to support local makers from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at DuPage Court, 40 DuPage Court, Elgin.
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Forget Vernon Hills — athletic club coming to MundeleinApr 28, 2026 12:34 pm - A health club offering around-the-clock access is coming to Mundelein after earlier plans to open in Vernon Hills fell through.
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North Shore Distillery plan gets warm reception in MundeleinApr 27, 2026 7:38 pm - As North Shore Distillery prepares to relocate to Mundelein, its owners got a warm welcome from village officials Monday night.
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Batavia Boardwalk Shops to open May 8Apr 27, 2026 1:23 pm - The Batavia Boardwalk Shops, which give entrepreneurs a chance to try operating a store for their wares, are opening May 8.
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There are solutions to the health insurance affordability crisisApr 25, 2026 3:30 pm - The unaffordability of health insurance coverage, however, stacks the deck against small businesses. Right now, there are too many small businesses unable to provide their employees’ with health insurance coverage. Entrepreneurs themselves also feel trapped under the weight of escalating premiums.
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‘We’re super excited’: North Shore Distillery moving to MundeleinApr 24, 2026 4:11 pm - After more than 20 years in Green Oaks, North Shore Distillery is moving to Mundelein.