By: Vandana Jhingan

The Chicago Indo US Lions Club in partnership with Pearl Banquets successfully hosted a major Business Networking Event on February 28, 2026, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, community volunteers, sponsors, and civic representatives for an evening focused on collaboration and professional growth.

Organized to strengthen business connections within the Indo-US community and the wider Illinois business ecosystem, the event attracted over 400 attendees and featured more than 20 interactive business booths. Participants showcased their products and services, exchanged ideas on emerging industry trends, and engaged in direct networking with fellow professionals and local community leaders. The vibrant gathering provided a platform for both startups and established enterprises to expand their networks and explore potential partnerships.

Several local elected officials also attended the event, reflecting strong support for small businesses and community-driven economic initiatives. Their presence highlighted the important role that grassroots organizations play in encouraging entrepreneurship and regional economic development.

The organizers also received congratulatory messages from prominent leaders including Alexi Giannoulias, JB Pritzker, Maria Pappas, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, along with several other elected officials and civic dignitaries. In their messages, they praised the Chicago Indo-US Lions Club for its efforts in promoting small business growth, community engagement, and economic empowerment across the region.

Speaking about the success of the event, Club President Lion Kishan expressed appreciation for the strong participation and community support.

He noted that the event demonstrated the spirit of unity and service that defines the organization and emphasized that the collaboration among entrepreneurs, volunteers, and sponsors is helping build stronger business networks and a more vibrant community.

Founder President Lion Hina Trivedi also highlighted the significance of the gathering, stating that it was inspiring to see members of the community come together with enthusiasm and shared purpose. She thanked volunteers, sponsors, business participants, and guests for their trust and commitment, noting that such events reflect the collective vision of growth, service, and long-term partnerships.

The success of the networking event was made possible through the support of several sponsors and partners who contributed to the initiative. Special appreciation was extended to Raj Jayara of Pearl Banquets for hosting the event and providing exceptional hospitality. Organizers also acknowledged the volunteer support from Sewa International USA, whose team assisted with smooth event operations. Additional thanks were offered to Atul Wahi, President of the United Punjabi Association (UPA), and fellow Lion Sudhir Sakhuja for their contributions behind the scenes.

Key sponsors supporting the event included Darshan Dhaliwal, Parminder Singh Goldy, Sukhwinder Singh Ghaggar, Brijesh Patel of Core Exteriors, Brij Kukreja of Kite Entertainment, Santhosh Kumar of Universal Metro Aging Services, Chintal Mehta of Care for Soul, Dr. Rani Yousefzai of Belleza Med Spa and J&R Hair Academy, Dr. Andrew Thomas of Heals on Wheels, Raj Jayara of Pearl Banquets, Avani and Hemant Trivedi of AUCI / 7-11, and Noman Khan of Illinois Media Group.

The Chicago Indo US Lions Club continues to serve as a community-focused organization dedicated to humanitarian initiatives, cultural engagement, and professional networking, while supporting philanthropic efforts across the United States and India.