The Southland Development Authority is a non-profit business organization designed to grow the economy of the South Suburbs. Launched in 2019 by business, civic, and political leaders across the Southland, the Authority brings the resources and capacity necessary to achieve transformative and inclusive economic growth for the region. It focuses on investment in industry, workforce, housing, and communities.

Together, the Del Toros form a partnership rooted in purpose and impact. Married for 20 years, they met in Arizona, married five months later, and have been building and uplifting communities ever since. They are Chicago Style Steppers, community advocates, and—thanks to Andres’s blues harmonica—often the rhythm and joy of any room. Their organizations actively support the South Suburban Small Business Association, Northern Indiana Chamber, and Southland Chamber, strengthening the region’s economic fabric. Their mission is bold: to disrupt the status quo, expand economic opportunity, and elevate the voices of women and underserved communities.

First American Bank, founded in Chicago over 50 years ago and chartered in Illinois, has expanded into Wisconsin and Florida. It remains a family-owned institution and is the largest privately held bank in Illinois.

FAB takes its commitment to community seriously, believing it cannot be successful unless its customers and neighbors are successful as well.

Edgar is the current president of the South Suburban Small Business Association. He is also a Financial Advisor.

As an independently owned financial services firm, he believes it’s important to invest time in you and your goals before you invest your money. By working closely with your CPA, attorney and other professionals, he can help you determine an appropriate financial strategy, including a comprehensive retirement savings strategy that can incorporate leaving money to heirs, if that is your goal.

Joyce is a Financial Advisor with Global View Capital Management and Global View Capital Insurance. She services businesses and individuals in multiple states with investment solutions & insurance needs. She and her team are constantly on the lookout to recruit individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit who seek to learn more about the financial industry.

The School of Extended Learning (SXL) at Governors State University serves as the continuing education and workforce development center for the University. Educational programs include short-term training that prepares individuals to enter the workforce, professional development and continuing education for individuals to advance in their profession, and English learning assistance for students and local residents.

Sean has managed in the Banking industry for the past 20 years. Over the last 10 years, he managed for BMO Bank. His team takes pride in helping personal and business customers make real financial progress.

Teneishae Coleman is a distinguished financial strategist and senior accounting professional with over two decades of expertise in financial data management, business analysis, and accounting strategy. She currently serves as the Founder and Lead Accountant of TLC Consulting, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization's financial trajectory and operational success. Teneishae's profound knowledge and hands-on experience in strategic planning, budget forecasting, and financial research have been instrumental in driving both short-term gains and long-term growth for the organization.

At Guardian Insurance and Financial Services, the ultimate goal is to create lasting relationships with all clients so that Guardian Insurance and Financial Services may continue providing excellent service for many years to come.

This company was created in 2016 to encourage women to prioritize their wellness by creating self-care routines that are effortless. Enjoyable and easy to fit into their day. These products turn drab skin routines into a self-care routine.

Jacqueline was a featured guest host on the Minority Business Report which aired on WGN Channel 9. She was a consumer contributor for Clear Channel radio station 1390, on the Mike Robinson Show, and hosted “The Money Matters Show with Jackie Dussard Sanders,” which aired on Smooth 90.5 FM HD Radio.

Felicia Houston is currently the Community Relations Specialist for Ingalls Behavioral Health Services. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Mrs. Houston has more than 16 years of experience in the mental health field, earning a BA in Psychology with a minor in Spanish and a MA in Human Development Counseling from Bradley University in Peoria Illinois.

At the very core of Safer Foundation is our belief in an unobstructed road to reentry. From our start in 1972, our mission has been to pave that road with stabilizing support, employment, education, and advocacy that empower justice-involved individuals to achieve their true potential.

Business Boss LLC is a trusted partner for women entrepreneurs seeking to create scalable businesses and achieve financial freedom. Our mission is to equip ambitious women with the tools, resources, and systems needed to create their dream business…

Kristi DeLaurentiis is Executive Director of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association, SSMMA, an intergovernmental agency dedicated to meeting the needs of communities in the south suburban Chicago area…