On December 14, 2023 the Equity and Engagement Department in collaboration with the Campus Community Compact hosted a small business networking event at Neil Street Blues. This event was designed for those looking to level up their small business or connect with other local businesses. This event was the first in a series in which we are supporting our small, local, MBE & WBE entrepreneurs and contractors. City staff, our Compact partners, other Central Illinois municipalities, banking partners, and local contractors that have done a large amount of business with the City and may be looking for sub-contracting partners were all in attendance. More than 40 community members registered and with more than 50 arriving the day of, this event was a roaring success for community members to build relationships, capacity, and support.