Diversity Equity Inclusion Network Alliance

Client: Destiny Wesley - CEO MeasureMe LLC

Our founder Stephanie Blakley's Journey to Success and Her Commitment to Building Small Businesses

Returning to her hometown of Chicago after a decade of being a stay-at-home mom, our founder Stephanie Blakley's unique background in accounting and cosmetology landed her a competitive role in opening Ulta Beauty's Salon's first Urban location. Her leadership and hard work led to the salon's peak performance to #1 in just 1 and a half years in Chicago's Historic Hyde Park neighborhood, earning her team a trip to Mexico for training with Farouk Systems and other beauty professionals worldwide. Stephanie's success continued as she turned around a struggling location at downtown Roosevelt Collection and earned the title of top salon talent recruiter in her district.

Stephanie's passion for lifting up others is reflected in her involvement with the National Association of Black Accountants, where she lives by their motto "Lift as we climb." She has expanded her business and brand to various wards in Chicago (The 42nd and 34th wards), bringing other small business owners from BIPOC communities along with her. Stephanie's efforts to coach and mentor her clients to expand to vacant storefronts in downtown Chicago have been reinforced by the buzz of the storefront activation program. She believes that this moment of opportunity is a valuable chance to build a diverse and sustainable entrepreneur and in-entrepreneur ecosystem in the downtown loop community.

With Stephanie’s over 25 years of experience, we are undoubtedly experts in big-box lease negotiations. With Stephanie’s lead, The Brand The Artist The Mogul Liability Company has successfully negotiated over the past 2 years big box leases that last for five years or more, with renewal options. They have helped clients secure right-of-use assets on their balance sheets, ranging from $140K+, as well as tenant improvement budgets ranging from $45-$277K. Their unique escrow holding business model has enabled some tenants to receive financing from property owners. Stephanie and her team are excited to share their expertise with the city of Chicago and help build the businesses of tomorrow in their hometown.

"Our business-building philosophy shapes every action we take and the decisions we make."

Stephanie Blakley

Click here to learn more about

Diversity Equity Inclusion Network Alliance

storefront activation program

A DIVERSITY EQUITY INCLUSION NETWORK ALLIANCE PROGRAM

We Empower Small Business Owners with Financial Literacy and Support

At our company, we take pride in our mission to support non-profit organizations and government agencies in fostering local entrepreneurship. Our goal is to educate and empower the next generation of business owners and founders, providing them with the financial literacy they need to succeed. We prioritize quality over quantity, striving to build lasting connections with our clients while leading by example and driving positive change in our community and beyond.

Located at 205 W Randolph St, Suite 110 (Lobby), Chicago, IL 60606, our office is just steps away from Chicago's City Hall and the future site of Google Headquarters. Though we are situated in a prime location, we primarily work virtually with clients from all over the United States and team members spanning the globe.

Our services are designed to support the growth and revitalization of all communities in Chicago, and we are proud to work with BIPOC business owners to help them achieve their goals. Our financial services offer sound bookkeeping practices and accurate revenue accounting, which are vital to driving success.

As we continue to grow, we are actively seeking locations in disinvested communities where we can partner with local nonprofits and establish a satellite location in their coworking spaces/community centers. Our focus on education and financial literacy will guide us in our mission to impact marginalized and disinvested areas, making a meaningful difference for generations to come.

January 2024

• Participants notified &
• small business expert financial consultation and program Intake
  
• Marketing Campaign Begins
  

March/April 2024

• 1 month of location scouting
• LOI/Lease negotiations
  
• Applying for Permits and Licenses
  

December 2023

• The application window closes on 12/15 program participants selected
  

• 1-5 Month 180 Degree tracking bookkeeping onboarding
• Assessing Readiness Through Financial Statement/Tax Return Analysis 1-3 Year Lookback
• 6 week brand identity course
  

• Participant Application Window Opens
  

September 2024-September 2025

• Ongoing Support
• Coaching/Bookkeeping/Tax/Marketing
  

July-September 2024

• Grand opening
  
• PR Press Tour
  
• Marketing campaign continued
  

• Accessing capital assistance plus optional pairing with investors
• Make ready location design assistance
  

Client

testimonials

"We Sell Peace of Mind"

why choose us

We Provide Top-Tier Business Consulting Services to Small Business Owners

“Our firm is committed to delivering high-quality services that are on par with what large corporations receive from the "Big Four" public accounting firms and their consulting divisions. We strive to bring those same top-shelf services to local small business owners. Even though the costs may seem higher, the intangible benefits of the services we provide far outweigh the expenses. Our company culture is based on servant leadership, and we prioritize building relationships over profits.

We price our services competitively, with a focus on targeting serious small business owners who are ready to take their business to the next level. By investing in our services, these business owners are investing in themselves and demonstrating their commitment to their own growth. We firmly believe that you get what you pay for, and our target consumers share this belief.

While we may not be the cheapest option on the market, we know our value, and partnering with us will yield returns far beyond our clients' expectations. Taking that leap of faith and investing in the growth of their business is the first step towards achieving exceptional results.”

HOW DO I PARTICIPATE IN THE STOREFRONT ACTIVATION PROGRAM WITH YOUR AGENCY?

There are a few ways to apply. Firstly, you can complete the standard application form provided by the City of Chicago BACP, the department may assign you directly to our agency. Alternatively, you may receive a direct referral from one of our partner agencies or even a personal invitation to apply from us.

HOW MUCH DOES THE STOREFRONT ACTIVATION PROGRAM COST?

While this grant-funded program will cover many of the costs associated with opening a storefront, business owners should expect to contribute a nominal fee to ensure their commitment. The investment required can range from 1K-7K+, but this contribution will demonstrate your dedication to the project.

I’M GOOD AT DOING MY CRAFT AND EXECUTING MY BUSINESS BUT I REALLY STRUGGLE WITH THE NUMBERS PART WILL YOU HELP ME STRENGTHEN THAT AREA OF MY BUSINESS? I DON'T WANT TO FAIL.

Our agency specializes in storefront activation and can help you strengthen this area of your business. Our 9-step program emphasizes financial literacy and creating a robust marketing plan, ensuring that your business thrives.

DO I HAVE TO BE A BUSINESS OWNER FROM YOUR EXISTING CORRIDOR TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM?

Our agency is dedicated to serving the city of Chicago, with a particular focus on BIPOC communities. You do not need to be currently operating within our activation wards to participate. Our goal is to work with you to bring your business to the central loop. We welcome all to join us in this endeavor.

HOW WILL I MEET OPERATING EXPENSES WHEN THE DOWNTOWN AREA IS STILL STRUGGLING FROM THE PANDEMIC?

Our program includes coverage for up to 12 months of rent, or 6 months as a pop-up, and a portion of your utilities. This safety net will help ensure your success as the loop recovers from the impact of Covid-19.

WILL YOU CONTINUE TO COACH AND MENTOR OUR BUSINESS AFTER WE COMPLETE THE STOREFRONT ACTIVATION PROGRAM AND WE GRAND OPEN?

At our core, we're dedicated to helping local entrepreneurs and small business owners succeed. Our ultimate goal is to establish a long-lasting partnership with you. As we and your business continue to grow, we'll be right there with you every step of the way.

We are proud clients of the Institute of Justice Clinic on Entrepreneurship click here to learn more.