La Grange: A Booming Hub of Small Businesses and Community Collaboration

Last week, the La Grange Business Association held its annual meetup at Plymouth Place Auditorium to discuss the role of entrepreneurship in community growth. Stephanie Posey, the LGBA board president, highlighted the profound impact of local businesses on the economy and community. "Entrepreneurs are the heart of La Grange, " she stressed. La Grange Village President Mark Kuchler pointed out that the village is home to about 350 small businesses, many of which are family-run. "They took a risk to establish their businesses here, " he said. In the past year alone, over 20 new businesses have opened, including Bellbird Bakeshop, Uni Uni Bubble Tea, and White Buffalo Barbershop. "La Grange has never been as busy with construction projects as it is now, " Kuchler added. Recent investments have surpassed $40 million. Expansions are underway for McDonald’s, a Boy Scouts facility, and La Grange Classic Cinemas. Partnerships with the La Grange Business Association and Visit Oak Park have boosted local events like the annual craft fair. Additionally, a joint effort with La Grange Park addresses local issues like property maintenance and minor crimes. Entrepreneurs present at the event included Ryan Williamson, founder of Horizon Wealth Management. Starting at Edward Jones 25 years ago, he now manages over $1 billion in assets. Also on the panel were Michael Archbold from Lyons Township High School’s business incubator program, Maria Grillo from Crunchy Bread Culture Studio, and Joseph Cassidy from the College of DuPage. Erin Molek, development manager for BEDS Plus, found the event insightful. "Learning about other businesses helps us improve our operations, " she said. Engaging with the community is crucial for success, especially to combat burnout in service-oriented organizations like hers.