Member Spotlight: Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago (ICNC)

Empowering Chicago’s West Side: How ICNC is Shaping the Future of Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Since 1967, the Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago (ICNC) has been a driving force for economic opportunity and innovation on Chicago’s West Side. In its support of primarily BIPOC- and women-owned companies, ICNC stands out not just for what it does—but who it does it for.

With a mission rooted in incubation, advocacy, and equity, ICNC supports over 300 entrepreneurs across industries—providing the space, tools, and community they need to grow and thrive.

Built on Advocacy: ICNC’s Origin Story

ICNC was founded during a pivotal moment when manufacturing needed a louder voice in Chicago. As factories closed and jobs disappeared, communities—especially those historically disinvested—needed new pathways to opportunity.

That’s when ICNC stepped in. Over the decades, the organization has evolved to meet the needs of the residents of Chicago’s West Side, becoming a hub for entrepreneurs building not just businesses, but stronger communities.

Two Incubators. One Mission.

Today, ICNC operates two specialized small business incubators:

• The Hatchery: A state-of-the-art space dedicated exclusively to food and beverage entrepreneurs—from bakers and caterers to Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) startups. Opened in 2017 in partnership with Allies for Community Business, The Hatchery answers a growing demand for culinary-focused space and support.

• Make City: A modern manufacturing incubator that houses businesses in apparel, beauty, personal care, and more. It’s a space where makers create and scale their products with access to shared resources and wraparound support.

Both incubators offer private workspaces, shared equipment, coaching, workshops, and community events, and the Hatchery has a special culinary training program in partnership with Chef Rick Bayless.

From Idea to Launch: The Incubation Cohort

Recognizing the need to support entrepreneurs at every stage of the journey, ICNC created the Incubation Cohort, a 6-month program designed to help individuals move from concept to launch.

This hands-on program provides tailored coaching, access to tools, and a strong foundational curriculum, making entrepreneurship more accessible and achievable for anyone with a dream.

Real Results: Scaling Local Dreams Into National Brands

One of ICNC’s standout success stories is Farmers Fridge, a fresh food startup that began inside the incubator and grew into a national brand. Today, you can find their vending machines at airports across the country—and their headquarters? Still right there at Make City.

It’s just one example of how ICNC doesn’t just support entrepreneurs—it stays with them as they grow.

Looking to the Future: Policy, Partnerships & Possibility

As entrepreneurship continues to evolve, ICNC sees new opportunities in tech, policy advocacy, and cross-industry collaboration. Whether it’s providing innovative food options for tech campuses or advocating for policies that benefit small businesses, ICNC is ready to lead.

Their long-term vision? Create a ripple effect of community-centered economic growth—extending far beyond their walls.

Advice to Future Founders and Incubator Leaders

If you're thinking about starting a similar organization in your community, ICNC’s advice is simple but powerful:

“Meet your entrepreneurs where they are. No journey is the same.”

Flexibility, empathy, and community-driven programming are key to creating lasting impact.

Powered by Partnership: The Role of InBIA

ICNC’s membership with the International Business Innovation Association (InBIA) has been a game-changer—connecting them with peer incubators, resources, and manufacturing experts across the country. These relationships help ICNC sharpen its strategies and stay at the forefront of entrepreneurial support.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, community leader, or simply passionate about economic equity, ICNC’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when mission meets action. And they’re just getting started.