ANNUAL 20
REPORT 25 3322 S Oak Park Ave, 2nd Floor | (708) 788-8100 | Berwyn.net
BERWYN.NET | 1
WORDS FROM THE BDC’S BOARD PRESIDENT At the end of this year, I’ll be stepping down as President of the Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) Board of Directors. Saying that out loud still feels a little surreal. When I look back on my time working alongside so many passionate local business owners and the truly dedicated BDC staff, I can’t help but feel proud and deeply grateful for what we’ve built together. This year hasn’t been easy for our business community. We’ve all felt the pressure in different ways. But through every challenge, the BDC never wavered. We showed up for more than 216 members with resources, expert guidance, and simple, steady check-ins when people needed it most. That’s what community looks like. The BDC’s new staff has brought fresh energy into our corridors, and with it, new opportunities. Our members now have access to a powerful network of professionals with decades of combined experience in everything from economic development and project management to marketing, communications, and chamber leadership. This collective expertise has helped us create space for businesses not just to stay afloat, but to imagine what’s possible. And our team has worked tirelessly to make sure those possibilities are seen. This year alone, the BDC shared more than 1,600 posts across 12 social media platforms, generating over 1.8 million impressions. Our e-blasts consistently see a 48% open rate and a 6% click-through rate, well above industry averages. Those numbers matter, but what matters more is what they represent: local business owners and residents who are engaged, paying attention, and actively looking to connect with what’s happening in our city. But the heart of Berwyn isn’t found in data points, it’s found in its people. Berwyn is a place where longtime residents and new families cheer each other on, where small businesses are built with both grit and love, and where cultural diversity is not just celebrated but lived every day. There’s a warmth here, a sense of pride and authenticity, that you can’t manufacture. It’s what makes this community special. It’s what has made serving in this role such an honor for me. As I step down, I’m thankful for the hardworking staff who give their all, for the City of Berwyn and our partners who believe in our mission, and for this community that shows up with heart, time and time again. Thank you for an incredible 2025, and for the privilege of serving as your President of the BDC Board of Directors. Sincerely, Jamie Revell President, BDC Executive Board
Behind the Cover The staff of Ofrenda pose proudly after serving for their Grand Opening on August 6, 2025. Ofrenda is a new upscale Latin-fusion restaurant offering bold flavors, creative cocktails, and gracious, guest-centered service.
3322 S OAK PARK AVE, 2ND FLOOR | BERWYN, IL (708) 788-8100 | info@berwyn.net
2 2 || ANNUAL ANNUAL REPORT REPORT 2025 2025
berwyn.net |
@BerwynDevelopmentCorp
TABLE OF CONTENTS 02
04
LETTER FROM OUR BOARD PRESIDENT
BDC BOARD & STAFF
2025 RECAP TIMELINE
BDC CONTRACT WITH THE CITY OF BERWYN
06 12
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RECAP
15
BDC GIVES BACK
18
PROJECT HOMEGROWN
08 13
FINISH LINE GRANT UPDATE
16
05
LETTER FROM OUR DIRECTOR
10
BDC 2025/26 FINANCIALS
14
ANNUAL STATISTICS
17
CHAMBER RECAP 2025
2025 GRAND OPENINGS
2025 MARKETING UPDATE
2025 SPECIAL EVENTS RECAP
20
21
MISSION
TO LEAD AND PROMOTE THOSE ACTIVITIES THAT SUPPORT EQUITABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS IN BERWYN.
VISION
We will endeavor to develop policies and procedures that all Berwyn residents and stakeholders can contribute to and benefit from economic opportunities. We seek to identify and address any barriers that minority-owned businesses face in attaining economic opportunities. As a result, the BDC has developed programs and partnerships with community organizations to specifically assist minority-owned businesses and will continue to expand on those as appropriate.
BERWYN.NET || 33 BERWYN.NET
BERWYN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David Hulseberg Executive Director CEO
Diane Salemi Past President
Fabiola Avitia Vice President
Richard “Jousef” Mondragon Vice President
Juan Agustin Fleitas Treasurer
Paul Macchione
Mario Manfredini
Eddie Wilkowski
Jazmin Sandoval
Jamie Revell President
Anthony Belcaster Gia Marie Benline Secretary
William Noorlag
Josue Duarte
Hannah Breakey
Macey Morales
Genesis Valencia
Management Analyst
Marketing Manager
Events and Operations Specialist
Alexis Alaimo Economic Development Project Manager
Helen Tornquist Project Homegrown Coordinator (Sprout)
Kierra J. Turpin Project Homegrown Coordinator (Berwyn Shops)
Nancy Gonzalez David Hulseberg
Alma Aviles
Vacancy Coordinator
Executive Director CEO
4 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
Dominique Carmona
Russell Glab
Chamber Manager
Accountant
Estefania Rodriguez
Gary
Chamber Administrative Coordinator
Director of Emotional Support
Michelle Valdovinos-Valle Graphic Designer Marketing Coordinator
STAFF
WORDS FROM THE BDC’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Welcome to the Berwyn Development Corporation’s 2025 Annual Report. As Executive Director, I am proud to share another year of meaningful progress, communityfocused investment, and momentum for the future of Berwyn. This year marked an exciting shift toward long-term development opportunities that will shape Berwyn for decades to come. In partnership with the City of Berwyn, we advanced two major redevelopment efforts to reimagine underutilized, transit-oriented sites in the heart of Berwyn’s Depot District. The first is the Request for Proposals for the historic 47,100-square-foot Art Deco building at 6804 Windsor Avenue, the former Berwyn State Bank. Located directly across from the Metra station in the Depot District, this project invited forward-thinking developers to transform a landmark property into a dynamic, mixed-use destination that blends architectural preservation with modern functionality. The second RFP at 6609–6639 Stanley Avenue focused on an 80,000-square-foot site at along the BNSF rail line, home to three mid-century warehouses totaling 28,500 square feet. This high-visibility corridor presents a rare opportunity to introduce new commercial uses, public amenities, or multi-use concepts that support walkability and strengthen our position as one of the region’s most connected suburbs. Together, these two redevelopment opportunities signal a bold step forward in shaping Berwyn’s economic future. We are equally excited about the upcoming Berwyn Arts Plaza on Roosevelt Road, a transformative project identified in our 2024 economic recovery plan. What is now a vacant property will soon become a pocket park and community gathering place for live performances, workshops, and artistic programming. In partnership with the Berwyn Public Art Initiative and other local organizations, the plaza will serve as a welcoming third place for artists and residents alike. Alongside these major initiatives, the BDC continued supporting local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations by supporting loans, grants, programs, and events that bring visibility and strengthen our business community. Thank you to The City of Berwyn, its residents, our partners, and supporters for their continued trust. Together, we are building a more vibrant, connected, and future-ready Berwyn. Sincerely,
Dave Hulseberg Executive Director / CEO
BERWYN.NET | 5
JANUARY
2025 T I M
BDC Annual Meeting
Publication of the BDC’s Annual Report Jury Committee Selected Berwyn Shops Event Canva Webinar Series Part 3: Marketing Women in Business Monthly Meeting Berwyn Intership for Small Business Webinar
FEBRUARY MARCH Know the Value of Your Business Webinar
LeadCare Cook County Webinar
APRIL
Women in Business Monthly Meeting
Seminario Web de LeadCare Cook County
Women in Business Monthly Meeting
Economic Development Commission Meeting
Women in Business Monthly Meeting
Economic Development Commission Meeting
Commercial Loan Commission Meeting
Economic Development Commission Meeting
2024 Berwyn Shops Graduation
Business After Hours
State Senator Javier Cervantes District Office Grand Opening & Block Party
Business Roundtable: Depot District
Depot District Mini-Golf Pub Crawl
BISB Kick-Off Meeting
Business Roundtable: Cermak Road
2025 Berwyn Shops Vendor Selection Day 2025 Berwyn Shops Orientation
MAY
Economic Development Commission Meeting Business After Hours Business Roundtable: Roosevelt Road Women in Business Monthly Meeting
JUNE
Chamber Preview Day Berwyn Shops The First 100 Days Under the Current Administration – What Employers Need to Know
Non-Profit After Hours - Berwyn Historical Society
2025 Banner Program
Berwyn’s Cruise Nites 6/2
Non Profit Roundtable SERCO
Berwyn’s Cruise Nites 6/16 Economic Development Commission Meeting Women in Business Monthly Meeting Berwyn’s 7th Annual Pride Walk IRA SerSafe Foodservice Sanitation Manager Certification Class
6 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
Grand Opening - Stella Insurance Agency
Chamber Preview Day Berwyn Shops
MELINE JULY
Berwyn’s Cruise Nites 7/7
AUGUST
Berwyn’s Cruise Nites 8/4
SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
Economic Development Commission Meeting
Women in Business Monthly Meeting
Women in Business Monthly Meeting
Taste of Cermak
Xurro Factory Grand Opening
Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification Class
Berwyn’s Cruise Nites 8/18
Economic Development Commission Meeting
Berwyn’s Cruise Nites 7/21 Business Roundtable: Ogden Avenue Roosevelt Road Cooridor Community Open House Business After Hours
Whimsy Way Play Grand Opening Economic Development Commission Meeting Grand Opening - Windy City Implant and Dental Centers Ofrenda Grand Opening Sprout Anniversary Party
BDC’s Nonprofit Roundtable
Berwyn’s Oktoberfest 9/19 Berwyn’s Oktoberfest 9/20 Business Roundtable: Cermak Road—Pace Pulse Project
Women in Business Monthly Meeting Welcome Reception & Open House: Associates in Behavioral Science Inaugural Halloween Pet Costume Parade Economic Development Commission Meeting Parentpreneur Workshop with Berwyn
Godson’s Ribbon Ceremony Cultura Y Conexiones | Culture and Connections Parentpreneur Workshop with Berwyn
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
Grand Opening of Aura
BDC Holiday After Hours 2025
Mural Celebration at W3 Body, A Women’s Gym
Economic Development Commission Meeting
Business Roundtable: Taking the Mystery out of Business Insurance
Elfin’ Around the Depot Holiday Pub Crawl
Grand Opening of Duarte Realty Co. Economic Development Commission Meeting Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification Class Virtual Non-Profit Roundtable
BERWYN.NET | 7
BERWYN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION CONTRACT WITH THE CITY OF BERWYN •
BUSINESS ATTRACTION The BDC provided information to 817 new business prospects on business advising, land, buildings, demographics, labor force, housing, education, infrastructure, and other relevant information.
•
BDC Staff evaluates the City’s incentive programs and shares recommendations informed by ongoing conversations with the development community. Throughout the year, the BDC monitored business activity through business license data, building permit follow-up, and vacancy tracking and analysis. These insights are summarized for the City in the semi-annual Vacant Properties Report and Building Permit Report, which track trends, highlight opportunities, and document developer feedback.
•
The BDC supported the City’s efforts to advance redevelopment at two key commercial properties. The BDC helped facilitate and promote the RFP for 6804 Windsor Avenue, emphasizing opportunities for adaptive reuse that preserve the building’s 1930s Art Deco architecture. The BDC also worked with the City and local developers to explore redevelopment pathways for 6609–6639 Stanley Avenue, including identifying potential grant opportunities and assessing options for future investment.
•
The BDC continued to market the Finish Line Grant Program in Berwyn’s Roosevelt, Harlem, and Depot TIF Districts (TIDs). In 2025, the BDC set aside $250,000 in the Roosevelt Road TID, $250,000 in the Harlem / Cermak Road TID, and $250,000 to the Depot TID. i. The BDC awarded $135,537.95 in Finish Line Grants to eight projects throughout 2025, leveraging over $350,000.00 in private investment ii. Additionally, the BDC has committed $116,016.89 in Finish Line Grant funds to four active projects that should result in an additional $405,578.62 in private investment in 2026.
•
•
In 2024, with support of the City, the BDC launched the Roosevelt Improvement Project, enhanced the areas aesthetic and pedestrian accessibility with improved landscaping, street furniture and upgraded fixtures including signage. Finish Line Grant funds from the Roosevelt TID were used to finance these improvements as they will largely benefit the commercial businesses operating within the area. BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION In 2025, the BDC delivered more than 65,506 touchpoints to existing businesses through canvassing, email, and phone outreach. These communications connected business owners to training opportunities, economic and demographic data, and commercial real estate information. Outreach efforts emphasized helping businesses access key financial and operational resources, including the Cook County Catalyst Grant, the City’s ADA Transition Plan, commercial loan programs, available property listings, and the Finish Line Grant.
•
The BDC maintained and updated Berwyn’s economic profile throughout the year, including the available properties map, vacancy information, and sales tax trends summarized in quarterly and annual reports. The BDC also revised its Finish Line Grant data-tracking process, resulting in a new public-facing dashboard that improves transparency and access to program outcomes.
•
The BDC maintained its database of all Berwyn businesses and collaborated with the City’s Permit Administrator to support ongoing business license collection and data accuracy.
•
The BDC conducted 10 corridor walks and hosted 42 events and informational sessions, including six business roundtables. These sessions provided practical training—such as sanitation management and Canva marketing—and offered updates on key studies and infrastructure projects that may impact the business community, including the Ogden Avenue Improvement Project and PACE Pulse Cermak Project.
8 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
•
MISCELLANEOUS The BDC operates the Commercial Loan and Microloan pools to expand access to capital for local businesses. The BDC also partners with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to administer the Advantage Illinois Loan Program. In 2025, the BDC maintained three active small business loans.
•
In 2025, the BDC celebrated several major milestones for Project Homegrown. The fourth season of the Berwyn Shops welcomed 12 new entrepreneurs; Sprout marked its two-year anniversary, and vendors graduated from Berwyn Boutique. Across the three incubator programs, vendors collectively generated approximately $388,000 in sales this year!
•
The BDC continued its role as a Tier 3 Community Navigator with the Cook County Small Business Source, connecting businesses to educational programming, technical assistance, and financial resources. From January through October 2025, the BDC facilitated more than 1,400 one-on-one advising sessions, totaling nearly 600 hours of direct support.
•
Working with the City of Berwyn, the BDC oversees tracking for the Vacancy Program. As of Dec 2025, 170 vacant properties have been inspected, 47 have appealed, 27 have registered and paid, and 90 are occupied. Tickets are issued to unresponsive owners, and all annual renewals are up to date.
•
The BDC expanded its community event resources by building on the Tourism Grant–funded block party wagons developed last year. In 2025, the BDC repurposed one of the wagons into an outdoor event trailer equipped with patio seating, tables, décor, and ambiance-focused elements to support business activity. The trailer is designed to help local businesses host outdoor events and encourage creative use of commercial spaces. While still in development, this resource will be further refined and deployed to strengthen business engagement in the coming year.
•
The BDC supported several major planning efforts that inform long-term economic development and infrastructure investment in Berwyn. This included participation in the BNSF Grade Crossing Study, collaboration with the City of Berwyn on the ADA Transition Plan, engagement with PACE on the Pulse Cermak Project, and coordination with the Village of Oak Park on the Roosevelt Road Corridor Plan. These efforts ensure that local business needs, development priorities, and accessibility considerations are incorporated into regional and municipal planning processes.
•
The BDC advanced creative placemaking efforts through the development of the Berwyn Arts Plaza, a collaborative project with the North Berwyn Park District, Cook County, and BPAI. In 2025, the BDC secured Cook County grant funding to support the project and initiated underground infrastructure work on the Roosevelt Road site. The Arts Plaza is planned as a new community anchor that will feature public art, cultural programming, and flexible space for community and small business activities. The project remains on schedule for completion in early summer 2026.
•
The BDC continued to invest in staff development to ensure the organization maintains qualified and knowledgeable personnel, as outlined in the City contract. One team member completed a master’s degree in marketing from the University of Illinois and was subsequently promoted. Staff also participated in several professional development opportunities, including the Illinois Main Street Conference, the Illinois City/County Management Association Conference, and Basic Economic Development training as part of the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) certification. Additional specialized training included sessions on Tax Increment Financing (TIF) hosted by ICMA, which covered TIF fundamentals, project feasibility analysis, and strategies for leveraging property tax revenues to support local development projects. These efforts strengthen the BDC’s technical capacity and enhance the expertise applied to City and community priorities.
BERWYN.NET | 9
2025 BDC FINANCIALS 2025 FUNDS ON HAND
2025 YEAR END FUNGIBLE ASSETS Total Unrestricted Cash Assets
$578,000 Real Estate $8,000 Notes Receivable
$838,000
Reimbursables
$109,000
Total Fungible Assets
$1,533,000
OTHER DEPRECIABLE ASSETS $317,000
REVENUE
2025 YEAR END * EXPENSES
NET INCOME Draw down on reserves for donations
$0
* Unaudited
2026 BDC BUDGETED FINANCIALS
REVENUE
EXPENSES BERWYN.NET | 11
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
services
GROWING LOCAL BUSINESSES
EconomicDevelopment@berwyn.net
2025 revealed the full complexity of what it means to support a small business community. While Berwyn saw encouraging economic gains such as lower unemployment, increased sales tax revenue, and rising commercial investment, many entrepreneurs also confronted social challenges that shaped their daily reality. Immigration-related disruptions and community wide uncertainty created stress for business owners, employees, and customers alike.
Throughout the year, the Economic Development team focused on providing stability in that environment by connecting entrepreneurs to high-quality advising, training, and financial resources. More than 1,400 oneon-one advising sessions were delivered through the Cook County Small Business Source partnership, and hundreds of business owners participated in workshops, roundtables, and targeted outreach efforts. The Berwyn Shops completed its fourth season, helping emerging entrepreneurs build the skills and confidence needed to move toward brick-and-mortar spaces. At the same time, the Boutique wrapped up in January, and Sprout concluded its two-year retail incubator cycle as new redevelopment opportunities move forward in Cermak Plaza. The BDC also supported major planning initiatives, including the Roosevelt Road Corridor Plan, Pace Pulse Cermak Project, the BNSF Grade Crossing Study, and the City’s ADA Transition Plan, ensuring that Berwyn’s small business community remains a central voice in shaping the city’s economic future.
EDUCATIONAL EVENTS 19 Informational Sessions 6 In-Person Classes with Partners
12 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
958 Event Attendees 6 Business Roundtables
COMMUNITY NAVIGATOR 10 Corridor Walks 600 Hours of Advising Given 1,400 Personalized Advising Sessions 310,000 Reached via Marketing
FINISH LINE GRANT UPDATE With intentional marketing and outreach, the BDC committed $135,537.95 in Finish Line Grants to 08 projects, leveraging more than $332,731.58 in private investment. This means that for every one dollar reimbursed by the grant, the program brought in an additional $2.45 dollars in private investment into Berwyn. Given the success of the program, the BDC budgeted $750,000 for the Finish Line Grant projects in 2025.
HARLEM / CERMAK PRO LG INSURANCE W3BODY
6342 Cermak Rd New flooring throughout
DUARTE REALTY CO.
6917-19 Cermak Rd Complete multi-office build-out
LEYLA HOME FURNITURE
6719 Cermak Rd New carpet and flooring
ROOSEVELT
DEPOT
6729 STANLEY AVE Retail white-box
6547 Cermak Rd Installation of branded awning
BERWYN DENTAL CONNECTION
6735 Stanley Ave Window replacement
GODSON’S
6910 Windsor Ave Outdoor dining patio / New taproom flooring
FITZGERALD’S
6615 Roosevelt Rd Erection of exterior pavilion
COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR RENOVATION GRANT The CCRG program, which concluded at the end of 2024, provided critical support to businesses and property owners along Berwyn’s 16th Street and 26th Street corridors. The program reimbursed 50% of exterior renovation costs, up to $10,000 per project, for improvements such as awnings, signage, and façade upgrades. In 2024, the BDC committed $53,325.00 to eight projects, leveraging over $111,950 in private investment—generating a 2:1 return on every grant dollar spent. Several projects were completed in 2025, nearly closing out the program and further enhancing corridor aesthetics, functionality and activity.
26TH STREET
While this program has closed, the BDC will continue exploring similar capital programs to strengthen Berwyn’s commercial corridors, recognizing the positive impact these investments have on appearance, operations, and foot traffic.
BLUE SEA LAUNDRY 6322 26th St Glass Replacement
CORTINA HEATING & COOLING 6305 26th St Façade and Metal Siding
TACOS Y SALSA 6346 W. 26th St Installation of LED Signage
STATE FARM INSURANCE EDDY MUJICA 6333 W. 26th St New Branded Awning
BERWYN.NET | 13
ANNUAL STATISTICS COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS
Berwyn
Illinois
National Average
Total Population
55,888
12,692,653
332,387,540
Median Age
36.4
38.9
38.7
Median Household Income
$75,235
$83,211
$78,738
Median Home Value
$286,000
$263,300
$303,400
Poverty Rate
10.8%
11.6%
11.1%
Mean Travel Time to Work
29.9
28.3
27.2
(in minutes)
Jan
5.7%
Feb
6.1%
Mar
6.0%
Apr
5.7%
May
5.0%
Jun
5.2%
Jul
5.0%
Aug
4.6%
Sep
N/A
Oct
N/A
Nov
N/A
Dec
N/A
NON-SEASONALLY ADJUSTED UNEMPLOYMENT
ANNUAL INVESTMENT
HOME RULE SALES TAX FOR BERWYN
Annual Residential Investment
$23.5 MIL Annual Commercial Investment
$10.3 MIL
2024 Sales Tax: MILLION
$5.62
(Q1-Q3)
2025 Sales Tax: MILLION
$6.26
(Q1-Q3)
INFORMATION PROVIDED BY: United States Census Bureau, 2020 Census Data, Illinois Department of Employment of Security, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Illinois Department of Revenue, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce. (n.d.). ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates. American Community Survey, 2023 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profiles, Table DP05. & The City of Berwyn.
14 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
11.44% INCREASE FROM 2024
BDC GIVING TO THE COMMUNITY IN 2025 Every year, the BDC aims to drive economic development, provide chamber services, and promote the Berwyn community as a destination. We work closely with the City of Berwyn, local businesses, and other stakeholders to support equitable growth for all of Berwyn. Thankfully, the BDC was also able to give back to the Berwyn community through financial donations and volunteer efforts in 2025. With the support of the Board of Directors, the BDC gave over $105,000 to local organizations and innovative projects!
Community Installations
Berwyn Internship for Small Businesses
BDC proudly partnered with Berwyn Park District by donating a Ford F350 truck of $43,000 value, strengthening community bonds and ensuring smooth collaborative event operations.
In 2025, the BDC concluded the BISB program in partnership with Dominican University. By giving $43,000, students were paired with 18 local businesses to enhance their online presence.
Philanthropic Grant
Miscellaneous Donations
Through the Philanthropic Grant, the BDC annually awards funding to local non-profits. In 2025, we awarded a total of $9,500 to five organizations that support families, youth, midwives, those experiencing food insecurity, and education initiatives.
Finally, we gave over $15,000, sponsoring local events such as the Berwyn Holiday Fund, Morton 201 Foundation, Youth Crossroads Gala and the North Berwyn Park District’s Best of Berwyn.
Artist Space on Roosevelt This year, we secured a grant to transform a long-vacant property on Roosevelt Road into the new Berwyn Arts Plaza. Designed in collaboration with community partners, this project will create a welcoming pocket park and gathering space for performances, workshops, and creative programming. By developing this site and returning it to the community, we’re investing in a vibrant, accessible place where residents and artists can connect, create, and thrive.
BERWYN.NET | 15
BERWYN CHAMBER
services
CONNECTING LOCAL BUSINESSES Chamber@berwyn.net
A note from our Chamber Manager,
Dominique Carmona
As we reflect on our achievements and look toward the future, I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Board, the City of Berwyn, and our esteemed members for your unwavering support in 2025. With your support, the Berwyn Chamber celebrated significant successes. First, the chamber welcomed 30 new businesses in 2025, bringing total membership to 266. Based on tier levels, our incredible members were celebrated at grand openings, promoted across our social media platforms, and highlighted in our eblast. Members were even encouraged to sign up for exclusive opportunities, like our Street Pole Banner Program, Berwyn Magazine and the last co-hort of the Berwyn Internship for Small Businesses. Beyond promoting members, the Chamber hosted engaging events, including Women in Business meetings, Business After Hours, and Non-Profit Roundtables. Beyond promoting members, the Chamber hosted 28 dynamic events, including Women in Business meetings, Business After Hours, and Non-Profit Roundtables. With over 454 attendees, these gatherings fostered collaboration, resource sharing, and meaningful networking. As we approach the new year, we are excited to build on this strong foundation by enhancing our existing programs, introducing new initiatives, and fostering deeper connections among our members. Thank you again for your continued support, and we look forward to another year of collaboration and growth!
Women in Business 84
Total Attendees
10 Total Events 9 Average Attendance
80
Total Attendees
IMPACT OF COLLABORATION
4 Total Events 20 Average Attendance
Business After Hours
Since 2023, the Berwyn Development Corporation and Dominican University have worked together to empower small businesses in Berwyn through digital transformation. This collaboration has helped local businesses strengthen their online presence- revamping websites, optimizing social media, and embracing tools that drive growth in today’s digital economy. Thanks to this strong partnership, more than 50 businesses have successfully transformed their digital footprint, opening doors to new customers, and opportunities. This initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when organizations unite around a shared vision: supporting local businesses and fostering a thriving community. As we close this program, we extend our deepest gratitude to Dominican University for their invaluable partnership and to every business that participated over the years. Together, we’ve proven that collaboration is the key to progress—and we look forward to building more opportunities for Berwyn businesses in the future.
16 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
GRAND OPENINGS
2025 OUTPUT SPORTS BAR - BERWYN
3250 Grove Avenue
AURA NIGHTCLUB
STELLA INSURANCE AGENCY
6920 Cermak Road
STATE SENTAOR JAVIER CERVANTES | 1ST DISTRICT
6729 Stanly Avenue, 1st Fl Suite A
OFRENDA CANTINA Y COCINA
6641 Ogden Aveue
DUARTE REALTY CO
XURRO
6725 Cermak Road
WHIMSY WAY PLAY CAFE
6814 Windsor Avenue
6917 Cermak Road
6805 Stanley Avenue
GODSON’S BERWYN
ASSOCIATES IN BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
WINDY CITY IMPLANT AND DENTAL CENTERS
6738 Cermak Rad
6929 Ogden Avenue
6910 Windsor Avenue
In 2025, we proudly celebrated incredible milestones for our local businesses and expanded the ways we bring our community together! From Chamber-coordinated grand openings to Finish Line Grant celebrations and open houses, these events highlight the launch of new ventures, the growth of existing businesses, and the achievements that make our region thrive. Grand Opening events continue to provide businesses with valuable exposure, drawing attention to their products and services while creating memorable opportunities to connect with the community. By adding new celebrations and welcoming events, we’ve strengthened these connections even further—boosting visibility, fostering collaboration, and ensuring every success story is shared and celebrated.
34 Total Attendees 3 Total Events 12 Average Attendees
CHAMBER MEMBERS
NONPROFIT ROUNDTABLE
CHAMBER BY THE NUMBERS 267 Active Members 78 Tier 4,5,6 Members 49 New Members BERWYN.NET | 17
Project Homegrown
Project Homegrown is a retail incubator designed to support emerging small business owners looking to grow their brands. Its three programs, Berwyn Shops, Berwyn Sprout, and Berwyn Boutique help entrepreneurs expand their businesses by providing access to physical storefronts, tailored business education, promotional support to increase visibility, and opportunities to connect with customers and the local business community. Berwyn Sprout, Berwyn Shops, and Berwyn Boutique each reached exciting milestones in 2025. We are proud of these retail incubators’ impact and look forward to watching these businesses flourish!
• • •
Highlights
12+ Media Spotlights 60+ Entrepreneurs 16+ Community Partners
• • •
Special Events
55+ On-Site Events 11+ Training Sessions 5+ Tours of the 3 locations
• • • •
Marketing Wins
13,200+ Social Media Followers 1,596 E-blast Subscribers 5 Magazine Features 360° Cameras of the Shops
• • • • •
Vendor Successes
$388,000+ in sales Increased Followings Developed Partnerships Won Grant Awards 3 Storefront Openings
2025 marked the reopening of the fourth season of Berwyn Shops. Vendors transformed their 12x15 storefronts into spaces that brought their brands to life for the Berwyn community each weekend from May through December. This year’s 12 vendors offered a wide range of products, ranging from apparel and home decor to baked goods and skincare essentials.
Throughout the 2025 season, vendors poured their all into the Shops. This dedication was demonstrated through bringing the community together with family-friendly events on the boardwalk, collaborating with community partners such as the Berwyn School District and local clothing donation centers, and being featured across various media outlets. Project Homegrown would not be possible without the support of the community who shop with our vendors, the continued partnership from our supporters, and the incredible entrepreneurs who pour everything into their businesses. THANK YOU to all those who are a part of making Project Homegrown so special. We look forward to what’s ahead in 2026.
Berwyn Sprout thrived in 2025, showcasing the strength and creativity of our entrepreneurial community. This year, 47 vendors generated more than $250,000 in sales, representing over a 25% increase from last year. We also celebrated Sprout’s two-year anniversary and cheered on one vendor who graduated into the Berwyn Shops program. On December 1, we announced that Sprout will close at the end of 2025. While we are saddened to bring this project to a close, we are immensely proud of the vibrant network of business owners that has grown here, and this transition opens new possibilities for Cermak Plaza and future small-business development in Berwyn.
In January 2025, Energia del Corazón Cósmico and K Shulada LLC completed their participation in the Berwyn Boutique pilot at Cermak Plaza. Designed as a next step for Berwyn Shops graduates, the Boutique program gave emerging entrepreneurs a shared space to build on their momentum, deepen their business education, and continue receiving marketing support as they prepared for future standalone locations. The two vendors teamed up to launch a vibrant mini-storefront offering crystal jewelry, home goods, artisanal clothing, and other handcrafted accessories. Their collaboration reflects the program’s goal of helping entrepreneurs test concepts, grow their customer base, and activate community space through workshops and events. With their graduation, the Berwyn Boutique pilot has concluded. Congratulations to all participating entrepreneurs whose creativity and commitment brought this program to life!
BERWYN.NET | 19
2025 OVERALL TOTAL WEBSITE VISITORS
223.1 K TOTAL WEBSITE SESSIONS
287 K
MARKETING 5 Websites*, 12 Social Media Accounts 3 Monthly E-blasts, Billboards, Digital Marketing, Print & Broadcast Media
Page views 114K | Up 5.8% from 2024 Sessions 85K | Up 10.9 % from 2024 Active Users 68K | Up 10.2% from 2024 Berwyn.net
• Users: 113 K • Sessions: 168 K
BerwynShops.com • Users: 21 K • Sessions: 33 K
BerwynSprout. com (Retired in 2025) Users: 8.1 K Sessions: 12 K
Berwynrt66.com
Overall Subscribers: 8,127 Emails: 62,302
1.5 Million Impressions (+390% increase)
Open Rate: 48%
BDC FOLLOWERS
(8% above Industry Standards)
Click Rate: 3% (1% above Industry Standards)
High-Performing Posts
42,430
*Boutique.com was retired in 2024
E-BLASTS
42,430 Social Media Followers|+8% 2024 7.28% Engagement Rate|+1.6% Industry Average
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• Users: 32 K • Sessions: 37 K
• Users: 29 K • Sessions: 37 K
2025 Social Media
in
WhyBerwyn.com
BDC
WhyBerwyn
Followers: 4,088 Engagement Rate: 8.3% Post Impressions: 304K Page Impressions: 391K
Followers: 19.8K Engagement Rate: 4.7% Post Impressions: 495K Page Impressions: 587K
20 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025
Berwyn Shops Followers: 10,742 Engagement Rate: 6.6% Post Impressions: 413K Page Impressions: 525K
Berwyn Sprout Followers: 2,525 Engagement Rate: 7.1% Post Impressions: 212K Page Impressions: 222K
2025 EVENTS RECAP Mini Golf Pub Crawl
Each spring, the Depot District is converted into a mini-golf course for the annual pub crawl! With a dozen participating businesses, the event saw over 450 registrants putting their way through the Depot District. This event was promoted on the 5 major television networks, through social media posts, and social media advertising.
Taste of Cermak
Taste of Cermak Road highlights Berwyn’s culinary scene, featuring samples and specials that introduce new customers to longtime favorites and emerging restaurants along the corridor. This year, there were 13 participating businesses, 4 sponsors, and 120 event goers.
Berwyn Pride Walk
Cruise Nites
This year we supported Bungalo+, a local LBGTQ+ social group, in hosting a small block party with music, resources, and family activities.
With 6 event dates this summer, the Depot saw over 120 unique vehicle registrations with many returning over the 3-month period!
Hispanic Heritage Parade
Oktoberfest
The Pride Walk celebrates LGBTQ+ visibility in Berwyn. In partnership with local leaders and community organizations, this event reinforces Berwyn’s commitment to being a welcoming city.
The Hispanic Heritage Parade celebrates Berwyn’s Hispanic community, showcasing local organizations, performers, and businesses while highlighting cultural pride and diversity.
Cruise Nites bring classic cars to Berwyn’s Depot District, drawing visitors, supporting local businesses, and celebrating the city’s Route 66 identity.
Oktoberfest, Berwyn’s largest festival, draws thousands with music, food, carnival rides, and beer, activating the Depot District and boosting local businesses.
The parade walked into the RE/MAX Summerfest event where those participating organizations and businesses had the opportunity to reach residents with music and performances through the night.
This year, the event saw 11 food vendors and 7 bands, providing a wonderful experience to attendees over the two days.
Depot Tree Lighting
Elfin’ Around the Depot
The newly introduced annual Tree Lighting ceremony brings families together to kick off the holiday season. This year, the Depot tree was hosted at Freedom Middle School with plans for future placement at the center of the Depot District. The BDC sponsored a hot chocolate handout on December 4th for students and parents, supported further by the school’s food service provider, Organic Life, who donated snacks for all.
This playful holiday-themed pub crawl encourages participants to explore Depot District bars through a photo-based scavenger hunt featuring hidden elves, holiday drinks, and group activities. The event boosts seasonal foot traffic, fosters pride in the Depot, and adds a more unique event to the mix. This year, we had 12 participating locations and over 200 registrants.
BERWYN.NET | 21
“Congratulations to the entire BDC team on wrapping up a year filled with growth, new opportunities, and real impact. Supporting Berwyn’s business community isn’t easy work. It takes dedication, patience, and a whole lot of heart. And you show up with all of that, every single day. Thank you for the care you put into telling our stories, lifting up our local businesses, and helping our community thrive. Your passion enriches the lives of the people who live, work, and dream in Berwyn, and it does not go unnoticed. Here’s to everything you made possible this year and to the even brighter moments ahead.” - Jamie Revell, President, BDC Board of Directors
3322 S Oak Park Ave, 2nd Floor | (708) 788-8100 | Berwyn.net 22 | ANNUAL REPORT 2025