MSP Guide: Leveraging Local Resources in Chicago

Chicago is rich with business development resources, from networking groups to chambers of commerce to tech incubators to funding organizations. For MSPs, these local resources present opportunities to build connections, access new clients, and grow their businesses. This guide explores how Chicagoland MSPs can leverage local organizations and partnerships to strengthen their presence and uncover new opportunities.

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1. Networking Opportunities in Chicago

• Chicago Chamber of Commerce

  • What It Offers: Networking events, business directories, and advocacy for local businesses.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Attend monthly mixers to meet business owners needing IT services.
    • Use the member directory to identify and connect with potential clients.
  • Link: chicagolandchamber.org

• World Business Chicago

  • What It Offers: Economic development programs and resources for growing businesses.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Collaborate on initiatives targeting high-growth industries like manufacturing or technology.
    • Gain insights into trends shaping Chicago’s business ecosystem.
  • Link: worldbusinesschicago.com

• Industry-specific Associations

  • Examples:
    • Illinois Technology Association (ITA): Focused on tech-driven companies.
    • Illinois Manufacturers’ Association: Provides resources for manufacturers.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Join and sponsor events to build connections with industry leaders.
  • Links:
    • illinoistech.org
    • ima-net.org

2. Chicago’s Tech and Innovation Scene

• 1871 Chicago

  • What It Offers: A leading tech incubator providing coworking space, events, and networking for startups.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Position your MSP as a partner for startups needing scalable IT solutions.
    • Host workshops on cybersecurity or cloud services for members.
  • Link: 1871 Chicago

• mHUB Chicago

  • What It Offers: A manufacturing-focused incubator supporting product development and innovation.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Collaborate with manufacturers to secure and optimize IoT systems and networks.
    • Provide guidance on scaling IT infrastructure for growing companies.
  • Link: mhubchicago.com

3. Funding and Support Resources

• Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

  • What They Offer: Free consulting, training programs, and business development resources for small businesses.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Build relationships with SBDCs to position your MSP as a trusted IT advisor for small businesses.
  • Link: dceo.illinois.gov/smallbizassistance/beginhere/sbdc.html

• Local Government Grant Programs

  • What They Offer: Grants and tax incentives for businesses implementing new technologies.
  • MSP Opportunities:
    • Partner with clients to design IT upgrades that qualify for local grants.
    • Educate clients about funding opportunities that align with your services.

4. Strategies for MSPs to Maximize Local Resources

• Build a Presence in Local Groups

  • Join at least one chamber of commerce and one industry association.
  • Attend monthly events to build relationships and establish your MSP as a community partner.
  • Offer educational workshops. Host sessions on cybersecurity, compliance, or disaster recovery through organizations like 1871 or the Illinois Technology Association.

• Partner with Local Nonprofits and Councils

• • Collaborate with nonprofits that need IT support by offering discounted services.
  • Sponsor events or initiatives through councils like World Business Chicago to increase visibility.

5. Collaborate and Develop Incremental Revenue Streams

• Specialized IT Packages for Startups

• • Offer discounted or scalable IT solutions tailored to startups at incubators like 1871.

• Sponsorship and Co-branding Opportunities

• • Partner with local chambers to co-brand educational content, such as “Top Cybersecurity Tips for Chicago SMBs.”

• Referral Partnerships

• • Build referral agreements with SBDCs, chambers, and tech councils to secure new clients.

Conclusion

Leveraging Chicago’s local resources can help MSPs unlock new opportunities, grow their client base, and strengthen their reputation as trusted community partners. Start by joining a chamber of commerce or tech association. Consider hosting a workshop to showcase your expertise. With consistent engagement, these local connections can drive both immediate business growth and long-term success.

See more articles for Illinois MSPs here >>>>>

ChannelPro has created this resource to help busy MSPs streamline their decision-making process. This resource offers a starting point for evaluating key business choices, saving time and providing clarity. While this resource is designed to guide you through important considerations, we encourage you to seek more references and professional advice to ensure fully informed decisions.

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