Local
First Chicago is a non-profit network of locally owned, independent businesses, community organizations and citizens joined together to build and nurture a thriving
local living economy. Unlike most large franchises and public companies, our
members invest in their community, and treat the environment with the
respect it deserves. We work primarily through public education, business
support, and advocacy. Learn More  Thank you for joining us to build a new Chicago tradition that strengthens our economy, expands employment, nurtures a sense of community, and provides a more relaxed, fun, and rewarding holiday experience. Many Chicago citizens visited the Unwrap Chicago: eat, Drink & Buy Local website to "Take The Pledge" to shift a small percentage of their holiday shopping dollars to locally owned stores, restaurants and entertainment establishments. Together we kept millions of dollars in Chicago and based on studies of similar efforts, it is likely we generated 2-3 times as much economic activity in our community than if we had spent our money at a national chain. Chicago is a city of vibrant neighborhoods rich with character. By shopping local year-round, you experience Chicago's unique flavors and textures while supporting our city's local living economy. EXPERIENCE the REAL CHICAGO THIS YEAR! EAT, DRINK & BUY LOCAL! |
Featured Local Businesses 
 | Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery10033 S. Western Ave , Chicago IL 60643 | Phone (773) 233-7579
Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery was founded to produce the finest honey wines (Meads) in the Midwest. We are Chicago's first winery and Illinois’ only meadery on the Northern Illinois Wine Trail. We are... |
 | Hardscrabble Gifts, LLC3333 S Halsted St , Chicago IL
Hardscrabble is a new mother-daughter-owned gift shop located in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood offering nostalgic and sentimental gifts for all occasions alongside many unique, recycled, handmade,... |
News + Announcements
04/24/13 - Crowdfunding: Who? What? How? - Want to learn more about Crowdfunding? Join our webinar on May 8, 2013
03/07/13 - Chicago Businesses Benefit from “Buy Local First” Campaigns - A recent survey of independent businesses showed that Buy Local campaigns have a positive impact on businesses and that public awareness of the benefits of locally owned businesses is increasing. At the same time, businesses reported challenges including difficultly accessing capital and a customer base still reeling from the recession.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
Local First Chicago is a proud participant in the
2012 Small Business Expo
Local First Chicago is a proud member of
the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies
