Powered by ChicagoMSDC in partnership with the Cook County Small Business Source
ChicagoMSDC is pleased to continue serving as a Business Support Organization (BSO) for the Cook County Small Business Source. Through this partnership, we offer no-cost virtual advising sessions to help small businesses build sustainable growth strategies and strengthen their foundations.
Whether you’re launching a business, preparing for funding or navigating growing pains, we’re here to support your next move with targeted guidance and hands-on resources.
What We Offer
Our BSO advising sessions are designed to meet you where you are, offering 1-on-1 or group support in areas that matter most to small business success:
- Refining your business plan
- Preparing to apply for grants or loans
- Finding the right financing sources
- Branding, marketing, and social media strategy
- Building operational systems
- Reaching new customers online
- Additional strategies based on your goals
We’re also expanding our educational support through interactive events, peer learning opportunities, and a growing library of short videos that break down key business topics.
Explore Our Educational Video Series
From financial document help to back-office tips, get on-demand guidance at your pace.
Real Support, Real Results
In 2024, our BSO team hosted dynamic events and advising sessions designed to provide entrepreneurs with practical tools and connect them to a powerful business network.
Recent highlights include:
– 2024 Strategic Framework Networking Session with EX3 Labs
– 2024 and 2025 Grant Readiness Workshops with The Wynners Club
- Tax webinars with Lucbene
- A financial fitness workshop with Prosperous Accounting
“I left my advising session with a clear plan, funding leads, and a new way of looking at my brand. The support was real and actionable.” — Yvette Lyes, Silver Pearls Senior Solutions
Meet Your BSO Advisors
Behind every session is a real person ready to help you grow—with knowledge, care, and a deep understanding of small business challenges.
Shyanne Tounsel – Marketing & Brand Strategy
Shyanne helps small businesses find their voice and refine their brand—from content and design to customer engagement. If you’re struggling to reach your audience or clarify your message, Shyanne will help you get clear and get moving.
Specialties:
✔ Branding & Marketing Strategy
✔ Social Media Planning
✔ Website Messaging
✔ Visual Identity & Digital Storytelling
(Book with Shyanne)
Neda Sharp – Funding & Business Operations
Neda specializes in helping businesses get organized behind the scenes—from financial documentation to funding strategy. Her practical approach helps you prepare for your capital needs, improve operations, and build sustainable systems.
Specialties:
✔ Funding Readiness & Loan Support
✔ Back-Office & Financial Systems
✔ Process & Workflow Optimization
✔ Supplier Readiness
(Book with Neda)
Anita Hagan – Procurement Strategy & Readiness
Anita brings deep expertise in procurement and supplier readiness, to helping diverse businesses understand how to become competitive and contract-ready. From navigating certifications to developing winning bids, Anita equips you to break into new procurement channels.
Specialties:
✔ Procurement & Supplier Readiness
✔ Certification Strategy
✔ Government & Corporate Contracting
✔ RFP & Bid Support
Anita does not currently offer online calendar scheduling. To request a consultation, please email programs@chicagomsdc.org to get in touch.
Ready to work with one of us?
Stay Connected
Explore more resources from the Cook County Small Business Source, including county-wide events, workshops, and small business updates.
Questions? Contact us at programs@chicagomsdc.org
Or call at 312-755-8880