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Essentially Collections Medical Apparel - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we spotlight Essentially Collections Medical Apparel, the first Black-owned medical apparel company in Kankakee County. Founded by retired nurse Toni R. Wilson, this story shares how resilience, reinvention, and purpose led to building a business that serves essential workers with comfort, durability, and style.
Luxe & Loaded Firearms Academy - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we spotlight Luxe & Loaded Firearms Academy, a women veteran-owned training company in Downtown Kankakee. Founded by U.S. Army veteran and retired law enforcement officer Karen Bond, this story highlights leadership, empowerment, and the mission to create safe, welcoming spaces for firearm education and community safety.
Fresh Kuts - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we spotlight Fresh Kuts, a Black-owned, community-centered barbershop rooted in culture, mentorship, and precision. From humble beginnings cutting hair out of necessity to building a space that strengthens confidence and community, this story reflects perseverance, faith, and dedication to serving Kankakee one fresh cut at a time.
Resilient Comfort Care - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we spotlight Resilient Comfort Care, a Black-owned home care agency in Downtown Kankakee. From personal experience caring for a loved one to building a trusted business that supports seniors and families, this story highlights compassion, perseverance, and the meaningful impact of serving your community.
The Venu’ - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we spotlight The Venu’ Lounge and V2 Event Space and the vision behind creating two dynamic gathering spaces in Downtown Kankakee. From live jazz and crafted cocktails to intimate celebrations and community events, this story highlights perseverance, purpose, and the power of investing in your own dream.
906 Clothing - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we highlight a local Black-owned business - 906 Clothing - in Downtown Kankakee and share the story behind the owner’s journey. From how the business began to the challenges, inspiration, and impact within the community, this conversation celebrates entrepreneurship, representation, and the power of building legacy close to home.
Building An Archive: Preserving Kankakee's Black Business History
Downtown Kankakee is where our community, culture, and history meet. It's a place where all are welcome to gather and celebrate all the vibrancy of our city. As we continue telling the story of our city's downtown heritage, we've recognized an important gap: much of the history of Black entrepreneurship in Kankakee has never been formally documented or preserved.
This Black History Month, we're launching a community archive project to change that.
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Essential Smoothies - Black History Month Q&A
In this featured Q&A, we highlight Essential Smoothies, a local Black-owned business in Downtown Kankakee, and share the story behind the owner’s journey. From how the business began to the challenges, inspiration, and impact within the community, this conversation celebrates entrepreneurship, representation, and the power of building legacy close to home.
Real Estate Developer or Investor?
If you’re a property owner planning significant renovations or new construction, or a business making major capital investments in buildings and equipment, these incentives could apply to you.
latest news & development
If you are a business owner, or looking to start one - Take a look at our available Incentive Programs to help you along the way!
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