An economic development organization, not just a networking club.
Our community is one of the best places in America to live, work and start a business. Indian-American professionals and entrepreneurs are a growing part of that success. The Chamber exists to make sure they have the knowledge, relationships and opportunities to keep building.
Vision
To become the leading catalyst for business growth, entrepreneurship, innovation and civic engagement for the Indian-American business community, while serving as a trusted partner in the continued prosperity of the Chicago economic region.
Mission
To empower Indian-owned businesses and professionals by providing education, networking, advocacy, procurement readiness, strategic partnerships and leadership opportunities that foster sustainable economic growth and meaningful community impact.
A letter from our founder
Thousands of Indian professionals, physicians, engineers, technology leaders, educators and small-business owners have made our community their home. Yet many still lack awareness of local procurement opportunities, access to decision-makers, and the networks that accelerate growth.
This Chamber will not exist merely to host networking events. It will be a trusted resource where entrepreneurs gain knowledge, develop relationships, access opportunities and build businesses that thrive, working alongside the Chicago economic region, educational institutions, major employers, nonprofits and neighboring chambers.
Raj Narayan
Founder, Founding Steering Committee
What we stand for
- Service
- We exist to serve our members through practical programs that deliver measurable value.
- Integrity
- We conduct our work with honesty, transparency, accountability and professionalism.
- Collaboration
- The greatest opportunities emerge through partnerships across businesses, government, educational institutions and community organizations.
- Inclusion
- We welcome businesses and professionals from all backgrounds who support our mission of economic development and community advancement.
- Innovation
- We embrace technology, entrepreneurship and continuous learning to help our members stay competitive.
- Excellence
- We strive for excellence in every program, event, partnership and service we provide.
- Community Impact
- Our success is measured not only by the growth of our members but by the positive impact we create for our community.
Five strategic objectives
We are a bridge, not a separate lane, connecting Indian-owned businesses with the Chicago economic region's development efforts, regional employers, universities, financial institutions and existing chambers of commerce.
- Business Growth
- Help members increase revenue, expand markets and strengthen competitiveness.
- Procurement Readiness
- Equip businesses to pursue public and private sector contracting opportunities.
- Leadership Development
- Encourage civic participation and cultivate future business leaders.
- Community Collaboration
- Build meaningful partnerships with local organizations and institutions.
- Economic Development
- Contribute to the community's long-term prosperity through entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation.
Governance you can trust
Structure
The Chamber is being established as an Illinois not-for-profit corporation and will seek recognition as a 501(c)(6) business league. It is member-driven and focused on economic development, not political advocacy or private commercial interests.
Board of Directors
11 to 15 directors provide strategic oversight, led by a Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer and Secretary, representing:
Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Professional services, Finance, Hospitality, Retail, Construction, Real estate, Education, Entrepreneurs, Women-owned businesses, Young professionals.
Advisory Council
Respected community leaders, including CEOs, former elected officials, university leaders, bank executives, attorneys, economic development professionals and successful entrepreneurs, provide guidance.
Our policies include a Conflict of Interest Policy, Code of Ethics, Financial Controls Policy, Records Retention Policy and Whistleblower Policy. Budgets, major initiatives and governance decisions are communicated openly to members.
Committees, led by members
Committees turn the Chamber into a community-led movement. Members can join one when they apply.
Membership & Engagement
Recruitment, retention and member satisfaction
Government Relations
Chicago economic region relationships, economic development, advocacy and policy monitoring
Procurement & Supplier Diversity
Bid alerts, vendor registration, proposal workshops, Meet-the-Buyer events and capability statement reviews
Education & Professional Development
Monthly workshops, business certifications, AI education and leadership programs
Marketing & Communications
Website, social media, newsletter, brand management, public relations and podcast
Events Committee
Business Expo, Annual Gala, Golf Outing, Business Awards and networking
Young Professionals Council
Leadership development, mentoring, career growth and startup networking
Women in Business Council
Leadership, entrepreneurship, professional development, networking and mentorship
Finance & Audit Committee
Budget, audit, financial controls, investments and risk management