Downtown Elgin Business Resource Library
The following resources have been compiled specifically for Downtown Elgin business owners. If you currently own a local business, or are interested in opening one, you’ve come to the right place. If you don’t find what you’re looking for please Contact Team DNA here.
Permits & Code
Elgin Stats & Data
Community
Parking & Maps
Arts & Events
Trends & Tips
2024 Economic Snapshot
This Market Snapshot summarizes local and regional demographic, lifestyle information, and consumer data. The information provides a starting point for evaluating the market, for identifying opportunities, assessing business potential for Downtown Elgin and more.
The Business Buzz Email
The Business Buzz is a vital source of important Downtown Elgin information for businesses. Topics include City Council meetings, street closures, construction updates, special events, grand openings, participation opportunities and more.
Gift Certificates
Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates are sold through the DNA office in increments of $5, $10 and $25. Downtown businesses, especially restaurants, bars and retail establishments, are encouraged to participate in this program. In 2021 over $5,000 of gift certificates were sold, and at this time over 40 businesses participate. To learn more and sign-up click here.
Business Owners Facebook Page
Do you own a business in Downtown Elgin? There is a Facebook group just for you! This group is for Business Owners/Managers located within the geographic boundaries of Downtown Elgin to network, share and more.
Business owners participating in this page must be transparent about who they are and what businesses they own. Visit the Downtown Elgin Business Owners Facebook page and request to be added.
Downtown Elgin ROPE Officer
Downtown Elgin has a dedicated police officer assigned to handle downtown related issues and business concerns. Local business owners are encouraged to contact Officer Ultan Gallagher directly with questions or to discuss specific concerns. Also, please remember to utilize the “Who To Call” infographic for guidance on reporting specific situation. Contact Officer Gallagher at 224-762-1329 or email gallagher_u@cityofelgin.org .
For more Team DNA contacts and a list of current DNA Board Members click here.
Learn & Participate
DNA offers a variety of free educational opportunities to the local business community. Utilize the links below.
Learn how to boost your business by crafting promotions that will drive new business without breaking the bank. This free webinar was hosted by DNA and presented by Kim Robinson. Watch the full presentation and download the PDF presentation.
Effectively plan a project and access valuable funding through the Historic Tax Credit program. Property owners are encouraged to watch our Historic Tax Credit 101 Webinar, to learn about the application process, what makes a property eligible, applicable projects and more.
Baker Tilly and MacRostie Historic Advisors are offering complimentary consultations for property owners interested in learning more about how to utilize Historic Tax Credits for their properties in Downtown Elgin. Email Nathan Pekul at Baker Tilly or reach out to Rachel Firgens from MacRostie Historic Advisors.
Navigating how to effectively start or develop your business online can be overwhelming. This free tool will help guide you through this process by identifying the best solutions for your unique e-commerce needs and providing you with a roadmap to implement an effective online strategy.
Simply answer a series of questions and receive a customized list of tools and resources to help your business succeed. Everything from POS systems, website platforms, and content creation software to help you market your business. Click here to use this free tool from MainStreet.org.
SCORE Fox Valley is an all-volunteer, non-profit group of local active and retired businessmen and women interested in helping you live your dreams — to help you start up a business or to make your existing small business more successful. SCORE works to connect small business owners with the people and information they need to start, grow and maintain their businesses, as well as online workshops available 24/7. They provide resources, templates, and tools to assist entrepreneurs in developing the plans they need to succeed.
Watch for opportunities to participate in Downtown Elgin promotional campaigns in the Business Buzz email.
Business Resources
Empower with GoDaddy: Free training, tools, and peer networks to help small businesses improve their digital presence.
Back To Biz: Free resource with 400+ video lessons, interviews and more.
Main Street Moving Forward: Free resources including business planning tools, webinars, best practices and real-life examples.
Hello Alice: Learn from entrepreneurs and get tips from small business experts.Â
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready: Free online curriculum for small businesses to succeed in the digital world.