By: Dr. Avi Verma

Chicago, IL – The Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) is excited to announce the grand opening of its new APEX Accelerator Program at its Chicago office on Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This special event will not only introduce the APEX Accelerator but also offer a valuable networking opportunity for local small business owners.

The APEX Accelerator Program aims to support historically underserved small business owners and entrepreneurs by helping them navigate the process of securing government contracts. With a team of multilingual business advisors, the program will further CMAA’s mission of empowering underrepresented communities through business development. In conjunction with CMAA’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), this initiative seeks to create a robust ecosystem for small businesses to thrive in the Chicagoland area.

The grand opening will welcome over 50 local business owners, supporters, stakeholders, and community leaders from across the city. Confirmed guests include prominent figures such as:

• U.S. Senator Dick Durbin
• Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza
• 48th Ward Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth

Founded in 1981 by ethnic Chinese refugees, CMAA has since evolved into a pan-immigrant social services agency that serves clients from over 70 countries, including immigrants from Vietnam, Myanmar, Venezuela, and more. CMAA is known for its wide-ranging services that span multiple generations and needs, from youth mentorship programs to adult education and in-home care for seniors. The Business Development Center has been particularly instrumental in offering no-cost advice and support for aspiring entrepreneurs through workshops and resources.

CMAA’s new APEX Accelerator Program will be a pivotal addition to its offerings, reinforcing its commitment to serving low-income, diverse immigrant and refugee communities throughout metropolitan Chicago. This event marks a significant milestone in the organization’s history, as it continues to help underrepresented small businesses grow and succeed.

For more details about the event and CMAA’s ongoing programs, visit CMAA’s official website at www.chinesemutualaid.org.