Chicago Bears Launch 2025 Small Business All-Pros Program to Empower Local Entrepreneurs

Celebrating Local Innovation and Community Impact

The Chicago Bears have officially opened applications for their 2025 Small Business All-Pros program, a community-driven initiative designed to spotlight and support small businesses across the Chicagoland area. In partnership with PNC Bank, this program highlights the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses while offering them unmatched visibility through the power of the Bears brand.

What the Program Offers

Now in its sixth year, the Small Business All-Pros initiative will select four standout small businesses that are creating meaningful change in their communities. These selected businesses will receive an exclusive four-week promotional campaign during the 2025 NFL season. The benefits include:

Feature in the Bears' official email newsletters

Two spotlight posts on @BearsLocal (formerly Twitter)

In-stadium exposure on televisions and videoboards during a home game

Dedicated profile on the Small Business All-Pros webpage, including a direct link to the business's website

An invitation to the PNC Small Business Summit at Halas Hall in early 2026, providing valuable networking and growth opportunities

Applications are open across all industries and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Winners will be announced in September.

A Legacy of Uplifting Chicago Entrepreneurs

“This program celebrates the passion, resilience, and impact of local small businesses while helping them reach new audiences and expand their footprint,” said Sarah Smith, Vice President of Fan Development and Brand Marketing for the Chicago Bears. “We're proud to continue our partnership with PNC to shine a light on the businesses that help define the spirit of our city.”

In 2024, the Bears honored Classic Cobbler, Doughboy's Chicago, and Kabob-It Restaurant as Small Business All-Pros. These businesses exemplify the rich cultural diversity and entrepreneurial drive that make Chicago unique.

Business Owners Reflect on the Program’s Impact

Previous recipients have experienced tangible growth and expanded visibility as a result of the program.

“Since becoming an All-Pro, we've seen a significant increase in customer engagement, both online and in our restaurant,” said Nicole Fryison, co-founder of Doughboy's Chicago. “The exposure we received helped position our brand for long-term success in the highly competitive culinary market.”

“I’ve seen real growth in revenue, social media presence, and customer orders,” said Chef Maisha Oliver Muhammad, owner of Kabob-It Restaurant. “Partnering with the Bears and PNC Bank empowered me to believe in my dream and inspired me to build generational wealth as a Black woman entrepreneur.”

PNC Bank's Continued Commitment

This marks the second consecutive year that PNC Bank has partnered with the Chicago Bears to support the Small Business All-Pros program. Since 2015, the two organizations have collaborated on initiatives focused on uplifting small businesses and creating equitable opportunities across the region.

“We’re proud to use the reach of the Bears platform to highlight unique small businesses and help scale their success,” said Scott Swanson, PNC’s Regional President for Illinois. “This program is about more than visibility — it’s about connecting entrepreneurs to meaningful resources that foster long-term growth.”

Apply Today

Small business owners ready to take their enterprise to the next level are encouraged to apply. For eligibility details, application instructions, and more information, visit:

👉 ChicagoBears.com/SmallBusinessAllPros