Transforming Urban

04/07/2026

ARCHITECT JOHN GAY IS ON THE REAL ESTATE FOR THE CULTURE PODCAST!! Has urban architecture evolved? John has an amazing new project with an amazing design that he will share with us!! Learn more LIVE on WNUR.ORG 89.3FM and all channels on FPCommercial.net Finders Plus RE Akosua Ma'at

01/01/2026

Wow!! Amazing way to start 2026!!

Angel Gregorio, a visionary entrepreneur and Howard University alum, has made a groundbreaking impact on Washington, D.C.’s business landscape with the launch of Black and Forth — the city’s first Black-owned shopping center dedicated to supporting local small businesses. After purchasing and redeveloping a 7,500-square-foot property in the Langdon neighborhood, Gregorio transformed the space into a vibrant, community-centered retail hub. Built using repurposed shipping containers, the center provides affordable storefronts for a range of women-led businesses, including salons, boutiques, and pop-up shops. Gregorio’s initiative is more than just a retail space; it’s a catalyst for opportunity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, offering a platform for local entrepreneurs to thrive while fostering a sense of community growth. Today, Black and Forth stands as a testament to Gregorio’s dedication to uplifting small businesses and creating a legacy of empowerment, demonstrating how entrepreneurial spirit can shape a city’s future.

02/04/2025

🏀 Join Us for 28 Hours of Peace! 🕊️

For the past seven years, Project sWish Chicago (PSC) has empowered over 4,500 youth and young adults, using basketball, mental health conversations, and healing practices to help navigate trauma and violence.

Now in its third year, 28 Hours of Peace is back! This lock-in style event will engage 100 young men in meaningful conversations and activities that impact their lives and communities.

📅 February 22-23, 2025
📍 Kennedy King College

What to Expect:
✅ Let’s Talk, Let’s Heal mental health panel
✅ Leadership development & career readiness
✅ Financial literacy workshops
✅ Music therapy & open mic showcase
✅ Meditation, yoga & podcast sessions
✅ Basketball training & Stop The Bleed certification
✅ Haircuts & conversations

This event is more than basketball—it’s about healing, growth, and change. Come be a part of something powerful!

📢 Spread the word and tag someone who needs to be here!

01/26/2025

CPL invites you to explore a new exhibit, "Local Legends: African American Steelworkers of the Calumet Region," on display at Harold Washington Library from February 1 to April 30. Celebrating ASALH’s 2025 theme, "African Americans and Labor," the exhibit focuses on the experiences of African Americans in Chicago’s steel industry on the Southeast Side. Click here to learn more:bit.ly/cpllegend

11/01/2024

Apply by Nov. 8 for development grants up to $250,000

Community Development Grants are available for commercial, mixed-use and light industrial development projects and can cover up to 75% of eligible expenses.

Applications for the latest round of small grants are due by 11:59 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8. Priority will be given to projects with strong local impacts that contribute to community vitality.

Visit the CDG website to learn more and apply

10/15/2024

Wow...do we have the Chicago cuts??

Walgreens announced Tuesday that around 500 stores will be closing the current fiscal year which should immediately help the struggling pharmaceutical chain and free up some cash flow

10/02/2024

This is amazing!!!

Developers are kick-starting work to convert the former Charles Warrington Earle School into affordable apartments after the Englewood property was one of 50 schools to close its doors more than a decade ago

The 50-unit apartment building is expected to welcome its first residents in December 2025.

10/02/2024

Location is critical in real estate investment...TIMING is just as important. This is the RIGHT time to open your new Brick and Mortar or Invest in CRE. Contact me for data, options and recommendations. LaurenLowery.com

10/01/2024

Great work Asiaha Butler! FPC Clients are transforming Chicago!!

The $6.3M project on 59th and Racine is expected to spur more development on the South Side corridor.

09/26/2024

O’Hare Is Adding Over 100 Concessions Spaces. Here’s How Local Businesses Can Submit A Bid
Selected restaurants and shops will open in phases, with the first businesses opening as soon as 2027.

Selected restaurants and shops will open in phases, with the first businesses opening as soon as 2027.

09/24/2024

Chicago’s new 'Brown Belt' is populated by Mexican residents who help fuel the area economy, report says: A report released Tuesday found that Mexican residents are now the dominant group in 15 Chicago neighborhoods and that they significantly contribute to the city’s economy and culture. Chicago’s Mexican population largely works in low-wage jobs, making up over 50% of the city’s construction workers, 71% of its landscapers, and 39% of its janitors. The report also suggested policy recommendations to help Chicago’s Mexican community, including increasing the amount of affordable housing and aiding small businesses. (WBEZ)

If you’re doing business in Chicago…this is important news!!

Researchers say Mexicans are concentrated in the low-wage workforce. They make up more than half of Chicago’s construction laborers and more than 71% of the city’s landscapers.