News Blog

The 2025-26 Leadership Northbrook program concluded in April, completing an eight-month series that introduced participants to the community’s vital institutions and major businesses. This annual program, facilitated by the Chamber, provides information and inspiration to lay the foundation for future leadership roles. Leadership Northbrook meets once a month September through April, with programs at different…

Innovation, commitment, and professional polish were all on display at the 10th Annual GBN Startup Entrepreneurship Incubator Pitch Night competition on April 23. Four student companies presented their products and business models in a “Shark Tank” style competition judged by local business leaders. The winning business Always Oak received an Emerging Entrepreneur membership in the Chamber, and will be invited…

Small Business Week is coming up May 3 – 9, the perfect time to recognize the importance and impact of small businesses in our community. As vital service providers, employers, taxpayers, and resources, our small businesses are the engines that keep communities thriving. Throughout the week, the Chamber welcomes you to drop-in for tips and…

Monday June 1 – Ravinia Green Country Club Presenting Sponsor: CLICK TO REGISTER! Kick off the summer season with a dynamic event designed to grow your business and strengthen connections. The NCCI Annual VIP Golf Outing welcomes players of all skill levels for an all-inclusive day of golf, great food, and meaningful networking. Join us…

Are you making the most of your Chamber membership? Benefits are designed to meet the needs of all types of businesses. We have programs to help you build your local profile, develop valuable connections, learn about top trends, and advocate for a healthy business climate. Let us help. Here are five strategic ways to tap…

Participants in the UL Solutions groundbreaking for the Global Fire Science Center of Excellence included (l to r): Dr. Robert Slone, senior vice president and chief scientist and innovation officer, UL Solutions; Kathi Quinn, president, Northbrook Chamber of Commerce; U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Ill., 10th District; Jeffrey Smidt, senior vice president, Testing, Inspection and Certification…

In just a few years of existence, ProAuto has built a stellar reputation for leadership, integrity, and community involvement. Located in Morton Grove, our 2026 Corporate Citizen  is widely recognized in many surrounding communities through its exceptional service as well as support of innumerable programs, events, and organizations. Owned by Julie and Lee Hardegree, ProAuto…

Amy Renzulli at School of Rock Glenbrook Amy Renzulli is not a person who lets obstacles slow her down. The owner of two School of Rock franchises, she combines a passion for art and creativity with business acumen honed over years as a health care executive. Those strengths enabled her to successfully launch School of…

One great idea can change your life. For Melissa Levine of Sweet Melissa Media, an inspiration about how to support local restaurants during the worst times of the pandemic evolved into a successful social media marketing business, fueled by a passion for food, small business, and community spirit.  In the fall of 2020 as COVID…

Ron Goldblatt’s company, NorthShore Loyalty, is founded on a philosophy of community-building. According to Ron, “We’ve always believed in ‘Loyalty with Purpose.’ This means that a business’s strongest asset goes beyond its pricing, its products, or offering discounts, it’s how you give back to the community. Giving back isn’t just a nice gesture; it is…