Baking Good Legislation
On August 27, Governor Pritzker signed into law the Home-to-Market Act. The Home-to-Market Act allows producers of home-based food products to sell their goods directly to customers. This new law goes into effect on January 1, 2022. This will foster the growth of home-based entrepreneurs, known as the cottage food businesses.
Prior to the passage of the Home-to-Market Act, cottage food producers were only allowed to sell their products at farmer's markets. They were prohibited from selling at fairs or festivals, and online. Compared to other states, Illinois has one of the most restrictive regulations governing the cottage food industry. This new act will open the door for a vast increase in sales and provide cottage producers the opportunity to start or grow their businesses. The Home-to-Market Act comes at the perfect time as many of these home-based food businesses and farms were hit hard by the pandemic. During the pandemic, many farmer's markets delayed their openings, leaving cottage food producers unable to sell their products. The new bill will especially benefit women-owned businesses, as 77% of cottage food businesses are owned by women.
The SBAC is a strong advocate for home-based businesses. Check out our most recent win regarding HBBs.
SBAC 2023 Holiday Party
Did you miss it? We had a great time at George Street Pub for the SBAC’s annual Holiday party. Wow – what an incredible turnout – busting out the venue with almost 100 folks! Thank you for coming to celebrate the SBAC and its work in the Illinois communities. We are excited to watch 2024…
Embrace the Spirit of Giving: Shop Local This Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us, and as we gear up for the festivities, there’s no better way to spread joy than by supporting small businesses in our community. Chicago, with its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, is home to a plethora of unique local shops, each offering a special touch to your holiday shopping experience.…
Byline Bank – Insights
Byline Bank’s Insights We all need more “Insight” into what makes a business successful and how to get there. We are proud to highlight our partner, Byline Bank, and their professional insight into achieving financial success. Empowering Employees and Communities Through DEI: Five ways leaders can embolden DEI practices within their organizations Want to Make…
