Chicago Loop Alliance continually strives to advance the future of the Loop through economic development advocacy and initiatives. Strong, successful programming like Sundays on State contributed to the millions in economic impact for the central business district.
2023 International Downtown Association (IDA) Conference
CLA hosted the record-breaking 69th Annual International Downtown Association Conference & Marketplace in October, attracting 1,500 downtown place managers from around the world. The conference theme “Community, Culture & Commerce” aptly provided insightful ideation through 11 Master Talks; 27 tours to Chicago neighborhoods and beyond; 34 breakout sessions; and additional events and receptions at some of downtown’s beautiful venues.
Other economic development work included:
Supporting programs like Hospitality Hires to assist job seekers with opportunities at downtown organizations
Participating in the advocacy of implementing the LaSalle Reimagined study recommendations
Engaging Black, Latinx, and other underrepresented business owners to join the Loop economy through targeted outreach for Sundays on State participants
Establishing an ad hoc residential committee to investigate and aid in the expansion of the Loop’s residential community
Monitoring the progress of the CTA State and Lake L station, including a public viewing platform and second “Gateway” in front of the Chicago Theatre