News Blog

Retail has been part of Lisa Smith’s life since she was in grade school, helping bag purchases for customers at her dad’s pharmacy, Parkway Drugs. Today, she owns Northbrook toy store Parkway Presents, combining the customer service skills she learned from her father with the discerning eye of a professional educator for toys that engage,…

Two Men and A Truck Receives Corporate Citizen Award Two Men and a Truck may be a new name in Northbrook, but the company has made an outstanding first impression in its support of local non-profits. The commitment of franchise owner Brian Stern and his team to the community exemplifies the ideals of corporate citizenship.…

Noggin Builders Named Northbrook Business of the Year Creative problem solving, collaboration, resiliency: essential skills for scientists and for small businesses as well. These are the ultimate learning goals for the educational team at Noggin Builders, and the skills that have fueled the success of Northbrook native Amy Torf’s STEM enrichment programs for kids. Amy’s…

Thank you to all the members who have renewed their Chamber investment for 2024. Watch for updated materials coming soon to help you showcase your involvement in our community. Members in good standing will receive mailings starting in late January with their 2024 Chamber window decal for your storefront or vehicle. In addition, members will…

The Annual Northbrook Community Resource Guide is a vibrant marketing tool that connects Chamber members to thousands of residents, visitors and businesses throughout the community. Advertising is available exclusively to Chamber members! Watch for ad information coming early in January. The full-color Community Guide, containing useful information about local government, schools, and organizations as well…

2024 will bring local, state, and federal changes affecting businesses, including Northbrook’s new surcharge on single-use bags, an increase in the Illinois minimum wage, a statewide requirement for earned paid time off, and new federal report requirements for small businesses. Northbrook Retail Bag Tax: Starting January 1, Northbrook retail stores over 3000 square feet are…

The start of the new year brings transitions to the Chamber’s Board of Directors, as new individuals step up to contribute their expertise in leadership roles. The Board reflects the diversity of industries and business sizes among the full Chamber membership. Newly elected Board Directors will serve a three-year term ending in 2027, with the…

The State of Illinois is launching a new round of Back to Business (B2B) grants, targeting businesses in specific industries that opened during the pandemic. $25 million in grants will be available to businesses that launched in 2020 and 2021, which were ineligible for previous grant programs. Applications will be open from November 30 to…

Invoices have been emailed for 2024 membership renewals, which are due by January 1. This is the perfect time to consider membership upgrades too! A Gold or Platinum membership upgrade provides exclusive marketing benefits to boost your visibility in the Chamber and the community. Gold or Platinum membership upgrades enhance the profile of your business,…

With holiday shopping in high gear, the Chamber’s Find It in Northbrook campaign is maximizing its platforms to promote local businesses. Engaging social media videos, community-oriented text messages, increased brand visibility, and prize drawings for shoppers combine to attract traffic into Northbrook stores. A partnership between the Chamber and the Village of Northbrook, Find It…