City news
Make It In West Chicago: Work with the City
As part of National Small Business Week (May 3-9, 2026), the City of West Chicago is recognizing the important role small businesses play in our local economy and highlighting opportunities to connect with City projects and services.
Doing business with the City of West Chicago might feel out of reach at first. In reality, there are opportunities for businesses of all sizes, from large construction projects to smaller, everyday services.
Whether you are an established company or just getting started, the City is always looking to work with qualified businesses that can deliver quality work and value to the community.
More Than Just Bids and Proposals
When people think about working with a city, they often picture large public bids or complex proposals. While those opportunities exist, they are only part of the picture.
The City regularly contracts for:
- Construction and infrastructure projects
- Professional services such as planning, engineering, and consulting
- Goods, equipment, and supplies
- Routine services and smaller projects through quote-based requests
Many of these opportunities, especially smaller ones, may not go through a formal bid process and can be a good entry point for new vendors.
Opportunities for Local Businesses
West Chicago is committed to supporting its local, small business community.
City policy allows for a local vendor preference on certain purchases of goods and services when pricing is competitive. This allows the City to consider local businesses when pricing is closely aligned, helping keep investment within the community while still maintaining a fair and competitive process.
Not every project qualifies for this preference. Professional services and public works construction projects follow separate requirements. However, for many everyday purchases, local businesses are strongly encouraged to participate.
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
One of the most common ways businesses begin working with the City is through smaller, quote-based opportunities. City staff often reach out to vendors to request pricing for goods or services.
If your business is not already on their radar, they may not know your business is available.
That is why the City encourages businesses to take a simple first step: introduce yourself.
By submitting a Vendor Interest Form and staying aware of current opportunities, your business can be considered for future work.
A Transparent and Competitive Process
All City purchases follow established policies to ensure fairness, transparency, and responsible use of public funds. Depending on the type of work, the City may use formal bids, Requests for Proposals, or Requests for Qualifications.
Each process is designed to match the type of project while maintaining clear and consistent standards.
Take the Next Step
If you are interested in working with the City of West Chicago, the next step is to learn how the process works and where to find opportunities.
Visit our “Doing Business with the City” page to:
- View current bids and proposals
- Learn how opportunities are awarded
- Submit your business information for future quote-based work
During National Small Business Week and throughout the year, the City encourages businesses to explore these opportunities and connect with available resources.