ANNUAL 20
REPORT 23 3322 S Oak Park Ave, 2nd Floor | (708) 788-8100 | Berwyn.net
BERWYN.NET | 1
Thank you for your years of service to the City of Berwyn and the BDC. Nora Laureto 1954 - 2023
3322 S OAK PARK AVE, 2ND FLOOR | BERWYN, IL (708) 788-8100 | info@berwyn.net berwyn.net |
2 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023
@BerwynDevelopmentCorp
TABLE OF CONTENTS 04
BDC BOARD & STAFF
08
BDC CONTRACT WITH THE CITY OF BERWYN
13
FINISH LINE GRANT UPDATE
17
2023 GRAND OPENINGS
21
05
06
LETTERS FROM OUR DIRECTOR & PRESIDENT
2023 RECAP TIMELINE
BDC 2023/24 FINANCIALS
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RECAP
10
14
12
16
ANNUAL STATISTICS
CHAMBER RECAP 2023
18
20
PROJECT HOMEGROWN
2023 MARKETING UPDATE
2023 SPECIAL EVENTS UPDATE
MISSION
TO LEAD AND PROMOTE THOSE ACTIVITIES THAT SUPPORT EQUITABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS IN BERWYN.
VISION
We will endeavor to develop policies and procedures that all Berwyn residents and stakeholders can contribute to and benefit from economic opportunities. We seek to identify and address any barriers that minority-owned businesses face in attaining economic opportunities. As a result, the BDC has developed programs and partnerships with community organizations to specifically assist minority-owned businesses and will continue to expand on those as appropriate.
BERWYN.NET | 3
BERWYN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David Hulseberg Executive Director
Diane Salemi President
Jamie Revell Vice President
Richard “Jousef” Mandragon Vice President
Andy Sotiropoulos Past President
Libby Popovic Treasurer
Mario Manfredini Secretary
Fabiola Avitia
Anthony Belcaster
Tom Benson
Sandra Diaz
Salvador Figueroa
Dr. Olivia Lares
Pierre Monice
Paul Macchione
Salvador Plascencia
Herman Vander Naald
Eddie Wilkowski
STAFF
David Hulseberg
Kendra Shaw
Genesis Valencia
Rasheed Jones
Executive Director
Special Events Coordinator
Deputy Director
Accountant
4 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023
Marcos Martinez
Community Development Specialist
Paola Garibay
Project Manager of Economic Development
Patrick Greenacre Michelle Valdovinos-V.F. Marketing Manager
Marketing Coordinator
Nancy Gonzalez
Vacancy Coordinator
Kierra J. Turpin Marketing Project Coordinator
Helen Tornquist Homegrown Coordinator
Gary
Director of Emotional Support
WORDS FROM BDC’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Welcome to the Berwyn Development Corporation’s 2023 Annual Report. As the Executive Director, I am excited to share the progress, metrics, and milestones that we achieved throughout the year. Most noticeably, the Berwyn community witnessed the rapid expansion of Project Homegrown in 2023. Specifically, the Berwyn Shops reopened with 12 new small businesses. The BDC also launched Berwyn Boutique and Berwyn Sprout, shared retail spaces in Cermak Plaza designed to support Berwyn Shops’ graduates and 30+ new entrepreneurs, respectively. Together, these programs are lowering barriers for new business owners and cultivating a dynamic community of artisans and makers (see page 18).
2023 Chamber of the year BDC named IACCE’s Outstanding Chamber of the Year.
Beyond Project Homegrown, the BDC continued to connect small business owners with educational opportunities, networking events, and financial resources. We did this via timely social media posts, bilingual e-blasts, and intentional phone banking. In fact, we hosted 53 outreach events and shared vital information over 65,000 times to established businesses in Berwyn. Furthermore, we facilitated over 1,450 personalized advising sessions with 800 different business owners, covering topics such as marketing, grant assistance, and site location analysis (see page 12). Thankfully, our efforts resulted in much-needed grant awards to Berwyn businesses. For example, DCEO awarded $305,000 to 18 local restaurants and creative arts businesses through the Back to Business program. We also saw 37 childcare facilities receive over $421,000 through the Strengthen and Grow Grant. Finally, the BDC committed over $377,591 to 32 renovation projects in our three TIF districts – Harlem/Cermak, Roosevelt, and Depot (see page 13).
Grants awarded to BDC $772,325 awarded to the BDC via 4 state grants.
In short, 2023 was marked by incredible events, tailored resources, and unique programs. We are thankful for the partners, small business owners, and Berwyn community who helped make it all possible. We are grateful for your support, and we look forward to collaborating with you in 2024! Sincerely,
+$700K Grants to businesses
Dave Hulseberg
WORDS FROM BDC’S BOARD PRESIDENT
$305,000 to 18 businesses B2B $421,875 to 37 childcare facilities
It’s hard to believe that we’ve completed another year of economic development and chamber services in Berwyn. When I look back on my last year as BDC Board President, I can say that I am truly impressed by the passion and tenacity of the BDC team and the Berwyn community!
2023 was a year of great achievements. First, the BDC was awarded over $772,000 in grant dollars! With these funds, the Berwyn community will see an Economic Development Resiliency Plan, bandshell and party wagons, expanded marketing for special events, restored jukebox, and more! Get ready for a funfilled special event season in 2024 (see page 21)! In addition to grants, the BDC also received high honors for our work in Berwyn, including Project Homegrown and the Berwyn Internship for Small Businesses (BISB). Specifically, we won the Outstanding Chamber of the Year award and the Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service’s Governor Certification of Appreciation. Finally, our Economic Development Manager was recognized with the regional “30 under 40” award and the national “40 under 40” award.
Governor award Team received the Governor Certification of Appreciation for Project Homegrown.
I am proud to have served as the BDC’s Board President and I look forward to what is to come in 2024! Warmest regards,
Diane Salemi
Team Aahievements Regional “30 under 40” Pay it Forward award & MORE! BERWYN.NET |5
2023 TIMELINE
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
Business Finance Basics El Jardin Tax Abatement Approved BDC Assignment Agreement Completed on 2 Loans Passion Project at Heritage Middle School Vendor Selection Day – Berwyn Shops Event Publication of the Bi-Annual Berwyn Vacancy Report 15-Year Anniversary Certification Presentation to Gail Lovero from Gone Travl’n Nonprofit Roundtable Breakfast meeting with Ana Granados speaking about #hireberwyn Art Mural unveiling at W3Body – A Women’s Gym Berwyn Internship for Small Businesses (BISB) Kick off meeting with Morton College Women in Business meeting with Jazmin Sandoval from ATAX Tax Preparation and Business Services Presentation of Finish Line Grant plaque to Joseph Linhart of Linhart Funeral Home Development Recognition Award presented to Flapjack Brewery and Fitzgerald’s Nightclub & Sidebar
2023 Vendor Info Session – Berwyn Shops Event Yorktown Center Field Trip – Berwyn Shops Event Business Insurance 101 Cook County Panel Discussion – Berwyn Shops Event Jury Committee Selected – Berwyn Shops Event Cook County Small Business Source 2023 BSO Kickoff City of Berwyn and BDC Board Strategic Planning Session Capital Investment & Expanding Your Business 2022 Cohort Graduation – Berwyn Shops Event Financial Management Cash Flow Renewal of Finish Line Grant in Harlem, Roosevelt, and Depot TIF Districts Publication of the BDC’s Annual Report BDC Annual Meeting at Paisans Pizzeria & Bar 25-Year Anniversary Certificate Presentation to Dr Diane Garrison DDS
APRIL
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for So Soft Beauty Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for Rock ‘It’ Taco Nonprofit Roundtable meeting w/Shannon Ellison Women in Business meeting with Imelda Rodriguez BDC & Morton College Graduation Celebration of BISB Business After Hours at Michael Anthony’s, Berwyn Wallpaper 101 – Berwyn Shops Training Event 2 Back to Business Grant Info Sessions Safety Orientation – Berwyn Shops Training Event Business Corridor Roundtable – Harlem/Cermak Rd Updated Vacancy Ordinance Approved by City Council DCEO Cook County Spoke Contract Signed Launch of Berwyn Sprout Application & Website BDC Awarded $175,000 DCEO Tourism Grant New four year contract secured with the City of Berwyn
MARCH
Launch of BDC Ambassador’s program Business After Hours at Paisans Pizzeria and Bar 100-Year Anniversary Certificate Presentation to Kiwanis Club of Berwyn Women in Business meeting with Maura Mitchell from Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) Membership Breakfast Meeting at the Berwyn Public Library with Libby Popovic from Popovic Law Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Loyola Medicine ENT Clinic
Business Corridor Roundtable – Depot
MAY 45-Year Anniversary Presentation to Berwyn’s Violet Flower Shop Women in Business meeting at W3Body – A Women’s Gym, Berwyn BDC Presented Iskali with a Philanthropic Grant Membership Meeting at the Berwyn Public Library w/Pierre Monice BDC receives Pay it Forward award from Morton 201 Foundation Soy Bilingual Speech Therapy Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Balance Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Berwyn Shops Grand Re-Opening – Berwyn Shops Event Second Saturday & Mother’s Day – Berwyn Shops Event 5 Artists/Musicians on Site – Berwyn Shops Events 2 Berwyn Sprout Info Sessions – Sprout Events Legal Tips – Berwyn Shops Training Event One-Month Recap Meeting – Berwyn Shops Event 2 Back 2 Business Grant Info Sessions Business Corridor Roundtable – Roosevelt Rd Berwyn Sprout Info Session – Sprout Event Vacancy Report for July-Dec of 2022 Completed BDC Awarded $47,325 Tourism Marketing Grant BDC Awarded $475,000 Route 66 Round 2 Grant
JUNE JULY
BDC Presented Pav YMCA with a Philanthropic Grant Nonprofit Roundtable meeting with Amelia Joseph from Pillars Community Health Women in Business Meeting with Erin Vogel from State Farm Insurance-Eddy Mulica Business After Hours at Baird & Warner 3 Artists/Musicians on Site – Berwyn Shops Events Second Saturday & Art in the Park – Berwyn Shops Event Father’s Day Weekend – Berwyn Shops Event Taxes 101 – Berwyn Shops Training Event First Round of Vendors Selected – Sprout Event 2 Sprout Open Houses – Sprout Event Business Corridor Roundtable – Ogden Ave 6 | ANNUAL 2023 2 Open Houses forREPORT Fixture Pick Up – Sprout Event
Sanitation Manager Training Cook County Source Grant Launch Second Saturday & Food Vendor – Berwyn Shops Event 3 Artists/Musicians on Site – Berwyn Shops Events Sombreros Workshops – Berwyn Shops Vendor Events Hiring/Insurance 101 – Berwyn Shops Training Event Business After Hours at Fitzgerald’s WIB Meeting with Fabiola Avitia, Cortina Heating & Cooling Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at MacNeal Hospital’s Breast Center BDC Benefits Orientation for Chamber Members
AUGUST Rt 66 Car Show Grand Opening of Berwyn Sprout: A Homegrown Project Berwyn Shops Presentation at the National ACCE Conference Business Corridor Roundtable – Central Berwyn Capital Development Board Outreach Event Latina Talks – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Strive Workout Session – Berwyn Shops Event Second Saturday & Food Vendor – Berwyn Shops Event 90’s Theme on Site – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Back-to-School Drive & Community Mural – Berwyn Shops Permanent Bracelets – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event
Cash Flow 101 – Berwyn Shops Training Event Secret Serenade – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Stride Workout Session – Berwyn Shops Event 1 Artist/Musician on Site – Berwyn Shops Event Launch of Community Strategic Plan Survey Nonprofit Roundtable with Josephine DiCesare, Youth Crossroads, Inc. Women in Business Meeting with Julie Polanco, Julie Naturally Membership Meeting on Cybersecurity with Fariz Burhanuddin Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Jardin Restaurant
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
2 Artists/Musicians on Site – Berwyn Shops Event Quiet Your Mind & Free Your Body – Vendor Event Secret Serenade – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event One Tail at a Time Adoption – Vendor Event Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun – Vendor Event Business Plans 101 – Berwyn Shops Training Dia de los Muertos – Vendor Event Spooky Movie Night – Vendor Event Halloween Bash – Vendor Event Berwyn Shops Report Card Meetings Business Corridor Roundtable: All Berwyn Business After Hours: Berwyn Boutique Grand Opening Celebration: Date Nite Beaute Grand Opening Celebration: D’Nuez Mexican Fusion BISB Fall Kick-Off with Dominican University
DECEMBER
Chismosa Chats and Networking Night – Vendor Event Model Call for Sagrado Corazon Fashion Show – Vendor Event Second Saturday & Food Vendor – Berwyn Shops Event 1 Artist/Musician on Site – Berwyn Shops Event Mid-Year Check In Meeting – Berwyn Shops Event Cookie Decorating Class – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Sagrado Corazon Collection Fashion Show – Vendor Event Marketing 101 – Berwyn Shops Training Event Fall in Love with Shopping – Vendor Event Beautiful Autumn Tea Party – Vendor Event Berwyn Shops Report Card Meetings – Berwyn Shops Events Governor’s Certificate of Appreciation Ceremony – Berwyn Shops Event Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting at Strive Fitness Women in Business After Hours at Warm Wick
2 Berwyn Shops Informational Sessions Holiday Market & Santa – Berwyn Shops Event Posada & Pictures with the Grinch – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Kalpulli Xinachtli Xochikalli – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Berwyn Shops 2023 Season Ended Building Permit Feedback Submitted to City Hall New Biz Grant Assistance Holly the Elf on Site – Sprout Vendor Event BISB Fall Celebration with Dominican University BDC Holiday Afterhours at Jardin Restaurant
NOVEMBER
Launch Berwyn Shops 2024 Jury and Vendor Applications 2 Berwyn Shops Informational Sessions Halloween Redo – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Chicago Girls who Walk – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event 1 Artist/Musician on Site – Berwyn Shops Event Holiday Kick-Off – Berwyn Shops Event Berwyn Fire Dept Appreciation – Berwyn Shops Vendor Event Cottage Food Certification 101 – Berwyn Shops Training 2023 Cohort Check In – Berwyn Shops Event New Biz Grant Assistance 3 Community Strategic Planning Meetings 2nd Round of Sprout Vendors Onboarded BDC received Chamber of the Year Award Grand Opening Celebration: The Outta Space Morton High School Field Trip – Sprout Event Santa on Site & Friendsgiving – Sprout Vendor Events Grand Opening Celebration: MacNeal Hospital - Radiology
BERWYN.NET | 7
BERWYN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION CONTRACT WITH THE CITY OF BERWYN A. Business Attraction (New Business Prospects) a. The BDC provided information 715 times to new business prospects on land, buildings, demographics, labor force, housing, education, infrastructure, and other relevant information. b. The BDC agreed to perform the following business attraction services to aid prospective businesses and developers: i. BDC staff reviewed existing incentive programs to make recommendations and provide feedback from the development community. The BDC continued tracking feedback by way of commercial transfer stamps, business licenses, and building permit touches. This information is provided to the City of Berwyn by way of the Vacant Properties Report and Building Permit Report on a semi-annual basis. ii. The BDC continued to market the Finish Line Grant Program in Berwyn’s Roosevelt, Harlem, and Depot TIF Districts. In 2023, the BDC set aside $250,000 in the Roosevelt TIF, $250,000 in the Harlem TIF, and $100,000 to the Depot TIF. a. The BDC has committed $377,591.27 in Finish Line Grants to 32 projects throughout 2023. b. In 2023, additional tracking and monitoring measures were implemented for businesses with gaming licenses. B. Business Retention and Expansion (Existing Business Prospects) a. The BDC retention program identified the needs of existing businesses in the following ways: i. The BDC provided information over 65,798 times via email and phone to existing businesses on economic, demographic, or commercial real estate. Some businesses were contacted with multiple touches, hence the large amount of retention information shared. The primary focus in 2023 was connecting businesses to educational opportunities and sharing financial resources, such as the Cook County Grow Grant, Finish Line Grant, DCEO Back to Business Grant, and Revolving Loan Fund. ii. The BDC updated information on Berwyn’s economic profile, including the available properties map, vacancy information to aldermen, and sales tax data in our annual and quarterly reports. The BDC website was also updated to reflect change in resources and policies from national, state, and local guidance. iii. The BDC continued to maintain a database of all Berwyn businesses and work with the Permit Administrator to collect business licenses. iv. The BDC conducted over 16 corridor walks, 16 educational webinars, 12 informational sessions, 3 community strategic planning meetings and 6 business corridor roundtables. 1. The roundtables included Depot District, Harlem/Cermak, Roosevelt Road, Central Berwyn, Ogden Ave, and All Berwyn. The informational sessions covered topics such as Project Homegrown and grants.
8 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023
C. Miscellaneous a. The BDC operates the Commercial Loan and Microloan pools to assist community businesses with financing options. In 2023, the BDC renewed its status as an approved lender with DCEO’s Advantage Illinois Program. i. Following the recommendation of the BDC Loan Commission, the City of Berwyn approved a $262,500 loan in partnership with Advantage Illinois in 2023. b. In 2023, Project Homegrown rapidly expanded. Specifically, the BDC re-opened the Berwyn Shops with 12 new business owners, celebrated the ribbon-cutting of Berwyn Boutique, and successfully launched Berwyn Sprout with 30+ entrepreneurs. c. The BDC continued its contract as a Community Navigator with the Cook County Small Business Source. As part of the contract, the BDC connects businesses to resources, as well as provides free one-on-one advising sessions to business owners. In 2023, the BDC team facilitated over 1,450 advising sessions and received about $300,000 for their efforts. d. The BDC continued its contract with the IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). As part of the contract, the BDC assisted business owners with the Back to Business Grant application, bringing in $305,000 to 18 restaurants and creative arts businesses in Berwyn. e. In collaboration with the City of Berwyn, the BDC continued administration of the Vacancy Ordinance. In 2023, the BDC sent notifications to 126 vacant properties. Of the 126, all were inspected, 42 appealed, 17 registered and paid, and 45 are occupied. f. In general, the BDC team continues to develop professionally. Of note, the economic development presented at the ACCE National Conference, ITIA Conference, and Cook County Bureau of Economic Development Panel. The team also took IEDC, Career Readiness, and Spanish classes.
31 Projects Committing $362,592 in 2023
53 Community Outreach Events
80+ Prospective Businesses Contacted
BERWYN.NET | 9
2023 BDC FINANCIAL
BERWYN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Bank Accounts, Escrows, and Restricted Accounts
Operating Reserve
As of 1.19.2024
$200,000
Total Unrestricted Cash Assets
$1,597,373
Escrow
$249,810
Other Assets
$656,870
Total $2,020,683
Restricted Oktoberfest
$97,500
Reimursables
$388,559
Restricted Route 66
FUNDS ON HAND
$76,000 Operating Accounts
Unrestricted Reserve Fund
$348,500
$1,048,873
BUDGETED ITEMS BUDGETED ITEMS Admin
SOURCE OF FUNDS
Marketing & Promotion
Operations
$75,364 $47,182
Other & Interest
Reimbursable Expenses
$25,192
$93,570
$132,529
Loan Expenses
$13,104
Professional Fees
Grants & Service Contracts
$93,551
$295,479 Marketing & Promotion
$136,681
Total $1,675,518
Total $1,660,477
Events & Programs
$255,386
Events & Programs
$169,071 Membership
$109,869
City of Berwyn Contract
$875,000
2024 BDC PROJECTED FINANCIALS Reimburseable Expenses
$35,500
Loan Expenses
$15,700
Admin
$69,000
Operations
$48,628
Professional Fees
$33,000 Marketing & Promotion
$220,000 Project Homegrown
$226,420
Total $2,101,838
BUDGETED EXPENSES
Events & Programs Expense
$290,000
PROJECTED REVENUE
BERWYN.NET | 11
Economic Development SERVICES SUPPORTING BERWYN BUSINESSES
Berwyn.net • (708) 749-6587 • kendras@berwyn.net Welcome to the Economic Development Corner, On behalf of the team, it has been a pleasure working with Berwyn businesses and residents this year. THANK YOU for sharing your goals, insights, and experiences with us! Your feedback sparked program expansions, new partnerships, enhanced marketing, and even new colleagues in 2023. For example, the BDC administered the Vacancy Program in collaboration with the City of Berwyn. According to the ordinance, all vacant properties must be registered, hold proper insurance, and have a plan for the space. In 2023 alone, 126 properties were inspected, 17 registered, and 45 occupied! We also renewed our contracts with the City of Berwyn, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Cook County Land Bank, and Advantage Illinois. Together, these partnerships enabled us to offer free advising sessions, small business loans, and timely grant assistance not only in Berwyn, but throughout the Western Suburbs.
GRANTS TO$421,875 BUSINESSES to 37 childcare facilities through the Strengthen & Grow Child Care Grant
$305,000 to 18 businesses through DCEO’s Back to Business Program
$726,875
TO 55 BUSINESSES
Moving into the new year, we welcome continued dialogue. In fact, we will release the new Economic Resiliency Plan in early 2024. Funded by the RISE grant, this plan is based on key informant interviews, a bilingual survey, and 3 community planning meetings. We cannot wait to see what is in store for Berwyn in 2024!
COMMUNITY NAVIGATOR
GRANTS FOR THE CITY OF BERWYN
1,450 One-on-One Advising Sessions 800 Small Business Clients 130,000+ Reached via Marketing 16 corridor walks
2023
RISE Grant – Economic Development Resiliency Plan Tourism Grant – Bandshell and 8 Block Party Wagons Tourism Marketing Grant – Billboards, videos, and more! Rt 66 Round 2 Grant – Jukebox, wayfinding signage, and more!
$75,000 $175,000 $47,325 $475,000
$772,325
BUSINESS ROUNDTABLES
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
DEPOT ROUNDTABLE
SERVSAFE MANAGER CERTIFICATION
Events
16 Educational Opportunities 12 Informational Sessions 3 Community Strategic Planning Meetings 6 Business Roundtables
12 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023
To encourage networking and resource sharing, we revamped our 6 business roundtables. With the new interactive format, we saw over 150 attendees in 2023!
In 2023, we facilitated 28 educational sessions, covering timely topics such as sanitation certification, government contracting, and grant application assistance.
FINISH LINE GRANT UPDATE
On behalf of the City of Berwyn, the BDC continued to administer the Finish Line Grant Program in 2023. This redevelopment grant is available to business and commercial property owners across Berwyn’s TIF districts – Harlem/Cermak, Depot, and Roosevelt. With intentional marketing and outreach, the BDC committed $377,591.27 in Finish Line Grants to 32 projects, leveraging more than $765,457 in private capital investment. This means that every dollar spent using public grant dollars brough in an additional $2 investment into Berwyn. Given the success of the program, the BDC has budgeted $625,000 for the Finish Line
2023 DEPOT
BAILA CONMIGO / DANCE WITH ME
6829 Stanley Ave. Interior Renovations and Signage
DEPOT
DEPOT
6827 Stanley Ave Interior Buildout & Signage
3212 Grove Ave Interior Renovations & Signage
6912 Windsor Ave Interior Renovations
JARDIN RESTAURANT
PHYSICIANS TO YOU
HARLEM
HARLEM
HARLEM
PREFERRED RATE RC TAX SERVICES
6534 Cermak Rd Interior Renovations & Signage
HARLEM
SOMETHING SPECIAL/ ALGO ESPECIAL
6529 Cermak Rd Flooring Removal & Installation
HARLEM
LEYLA HOME FURNITURE
6719 Cermak Rd Concrete Parking Lot
DATE NITE BEAUTE
HARLEM
6431 Cermak Rd Interior Buildout
DEPOT
GODSON’S BANQUETS INC.
HARLEM
6916 Cermak Rd Exterior Signage
SOY BILINGUAL SPEECH THERAPY W3BODY – A WOMEN’S GYM
6912-6914 Cermak Rd Exterior Signage
6342 Cermak Rd Painted Mural & Plumbing
6811 ROOSEVELT RD
ON THE ROCKS
ROOSEVELT
6811 Roosevelt Rd Tuckpointing
ROOSEVELT
6907 Roosevelt Rd BERWYN.NET | 13 Interior Renovations
ANNUAL STATISTICS INFORMATION PROVIDED BY: United States Census Bureau, 2020 Census Data, IDES, & The City of Berwyn
COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS
Berwyn
Illinois
National Average
Median Age
35.8
38.6
38.6
Median Household Income
$64,965
$69,187
$65,712
Median Home Value
$211,700
$209,100
$240,500
Poverty Rate
12.80%
12.50%
12.30%
Mean Travel Time to Work
32.5 Minutes
27.9 Minutes
25.5 Minutes
14 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023
Month
Berwyn
Dec
4.9%
Jan
6%
Feb
5%
Mar
4.7%
Apr
3.6%
May
3.5%
Jun
4.7%
Jul
4.3%
Aug
5.4%
Sep
4.9%
Oct
4.5%
Nov
4.6%
NON-SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT
ANNUAL INVESTMENT
Annual Residential Investment:
$38.2
MIL HOME RULE SALES TAX FOR BERWYN
2022 Sales Tax: Q1-Q3
$5.43 $5.52 1.54% MILLION
2023 Sales Tax: Q1-Q3
MILLION
INCREASED
Annual Commercial Investment:
$8.8
MIL
BERWYN CHAMBER
services CONNECTING BERWYN BUSINESSES
Berwyn.net • (708) 788-8100 • info@berwyn.net
The Berwyn Chamber celebrates a year of wonderful achievements, starting with 15 grand opening events that showcased the growth of our local business community. New this year, we hosted engaging Membership Meetings that provided relevant information and resources for all members. The BISB program underwent a restructuring in the second half of the year and the adjustments made underscore our commitment to our Chamber members’ unique needs. To top off our organization’s triumphs, we proudly received the Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award, a testament to our dedication to excellence as a team. As we reflect on our accomplishments, we look forward to continued success, collaboration, and service to our Chamber community. Cheers!
2023 SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS & BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Women In Business • 9 Meetings • 128 Total attendees • Variety of speakers • Networking opportunities
2023
Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award
Speaker: Josephine DiCesare August 10, 2023
Speaker: Jamie Revell May 16, 2023
Berwyn After Hours
JARDIN RESTAURANT December 14, 2023
16 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023
• 5 Meetings • 67 Total attendees • HireBerwyn • Growing partnerships
BDC OFFICE
W3 BODY
• 6 Meetings • 91 Total attendees • Member appreciation • Connecting members
Nonprofit Round Table
Membership Meetings The Outstanding Chamber of the Year Award, which began in 2014, recognizes organization excellence in chambers of commerce and provides a unique benchmarking opportunity to assess a chamber’s strengths. The award is based on the US Chamber of Commerce accreditation process for local chambers and highlights accomplishments in the areas of leadership/governance, finance, advocacy and membership development.
• 4 Meetings • 52 Total attendees • Member benefits recap • Continued Education
BERWYN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Speaker: Libby Popovic March 23, 2023
2023
GRAND OPENINGS
SO SOFT BEAUTY
ROCK “IT” TACO
BALANCE
BERWYN BOUTIQUE
7117 Roosevelt Rd
3246 Oak Park Ave.
8 BOBA CAFÉ
6139 Ogden Ave.
7003 Cermak Rd.
JARDIN RESTAURANT
6207 Roosevelt Rd.
7003 Cermak Rd.
DATE NITE BEAUTE
D’NUEZ
3212 S. Grove Ave.
1223 S Harlem Ave
SOY BILINGUAL
6912 Cermak Rd.
BAILA CONMIGO / DANCE WITH ME
6829 Stanley Ave.
STRIVE FITNESS
7905 Ogden Ave.
THE OUTTA SPACE
6840 W. 32nd St.
LOYOLA MEDICINE | MACNEAL HOSPITAL 3249 Oak Park Ave.
ENT CLINIC
3231 Euclid Ave. Suite 408
3D MAMMOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT
Breast Center
INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY EQUIPMENT Interventional Radiology Dept.
BERWYN.NET | 17
High Honors
Special Events
On May 5th, the Berwyn Shops successfully re-opened with on-site upgrades, new training sessions, and redesigned mini storefronts. For almost 8 months, the 12 new businesses tested the local market, offering everything from baked goods and curated clothing to artisanal jewelry and clean skincare. While on Roosevelt Rd, the vendors expanded their product lines, hosted engaging events, and made new connections with customers and partners. The Shops were even spotlighted over 13 times across media platforms, including CBS News, ABC7 Chicago, WGN, and more! This homegrown project has truly put Berwyn on the map. We are excited for season 3 in 2024!
On August 29th, partners, residents, friends, and family joined the BDC in celebrating the official Grand Opening of Berwyn Sprout. As the newest homegrown project, Sprout is designed to support 30+ entrepreneurs in one space. Open every Tuesday-Sunday, it is the perfect one-stop-shop, offering everything from artisanal blankets and candles to handmade accessories and beauty products. In 2023, Sprout vendors have already sold over 7500 items, totaling over $100,000 in sales! They have even hosted holiday events, competed in pitch competitions, and been featured in news outlets. We are proud of Sprout and cannot wait to see it blossom in 2024!
• 13+ Media Spotlights • Featured at 2 Conferences • Governor’s Certificate of Appreciation • Chamber of the Year
• 49 On-Site Events • 10 Training Sessions • 16 Live Performers • 40 Pop-Up Vendors
Physical Upgrades
• Branded Archway • Restroom Trailer • Security Cameras • Enhanced Lighting
Vendor Successes
• Sold Out Products • Increased Followings • Developed Partnerships • Won Grant Awards
2024 Teasers
• 13 Community Jurors • 12 NEW Entrepreneurs • Revamped Marketing • Dedicated Team Member
On June 9th, Berwyn Boutique launched as a shared retail space, designed to help Berwyn Shops’ graduates expand their product lines, increase brand awareness, and strengthen partnerships. Since opening, Makrame Green, Los Amigos Books, and Juicey Gems have done a great job facilitating interactive workshops, creating a family-friendly reading space, and hosting dynamic events. They even sold out their first fashion show! Stay tuned for more collaborations in 2024!
BERWYN.NET | 19
2023
OVERALL:
Marketing 4 Websites, 8 Social Media Accounts 3 Monthly E-blast, Print Media, Billboards
184,436 Vistor sessions | +10% 2022 302,708 Total Page Views | +26% 2022
Berwyn.net
WhyBerwyn.com
BerwynShops.com
BerwynSprout.com
• Users: 114,012 • Pageviews: 174,673
• Users: 19,653 • Pageviews: 87,735
TOTAL WEBSITE VISITORS (302k Page Views)
• Users: 13,163 • Pageviews: 23,377
• Users: 5,232 • Pageviews: 16,923
2023 Social Media 31,360 Social Media Followers | +18% 2022 6.4% Engagement Rate | +2.03% Industry Average 1,600 Comments | +43% 2022
f
152,060
in
E-Blast BDC (Chamber)
1.86M
PAGE IMPERSSIONS (+40% over 2022)
• Open Rate: 41.36% • Click-Through-Rate: 3.11 • Subscribers: 717
BDC (Econ)
• Open Rate: 38.39% • Click-Through-Rate: 2.33% • Subscribers: 972
WhyBerwyn
• Open Rate: 47.83% • Click-Through-Rate: 3.33% • Subscribers: 1,379
Project Homegrown
Berwyn Shops
• Followers: 7,401 • Engagement Rate: 4% • Post Impressions: 688K • Page Impressions: 1.1M
• Open Rate: 54.56% • Click-Through-Rate: 5.17% • Subscribers: 1,344
Berwyn Sprout • Followers: 1,404 • Engagement Rate: 6% • Post Impressions: 77K • Page Impressions: 121K
31,360 BDC FOLLOWERS
20 | ANNUAL REPORT(+18% 2023 over 2022)
WhyBerwyn
BDC
• Followers: 19,935 • Followers: 2,894 • Engagement Rate: 4% • Engagement Rate: 9% • Post Impressions: 313K • Post Impressions: 256K • Page Impressions: 240K • Page Impressions: 319K
2023
EVENTS RECAP: BERWYN
BERWYN ROUTE
CAR SHOW
23
, 20 August 26th
• 118 teams, 19 individuals • Total of 491 total golfers • 15 venues, 11 members • 11 sponsors • Best hole: Godson’s
2023
• 721 registered vehicles • 654 pre-registered online • 19 sponsors • 21 vendors • +25K visitors
• 13 food vendors • NEW Cup sponsor added • 8,290 drink tickets sold • 7 bands & musicians • +16K attendees
2024 Apr 20
DEPOT DISTRICT MINI-GOLF PUB CRAWL
OKTOBERFEST
TASTE OF CERMAK
Sept 20/21
July 18
Aug 24
BERWYN RT 66 CAR SHOW
Oct 19
BAGS, BEER, & BBQ
RETURNING EVENTS:
3322 S Oak Park Ave, 2nd Floor | (708) 788-8100 | Berwyn.net 22 | ANNUAL REPORT 2023