The conference at the Chicago Hilton and Towers Hotel was filled to capacity. Some of the workshops were standing room only.
Rev. Jesse Jackson made an appearance at several workshops including one on the "ethnic consumer." The workshop dealt with the newly released Census figures and how they affect us all.
Many were anxious to attend the workshop by Facebook on how to best use social media outlets to grow your business.
"We go through how people can create a page, the process of building a page, the impact on what they can do on Facebook," said presenter Brooke Oberwetter.
"I got interesting points on how to build a business site," said participant Larry Harrell.
Gov. Pat Quinn was one of the honored guests.
"I have known the Rev. Jackson Sr. for decades, and he stands for fighting for everyday people who need a helping hand," said Quinn.
At the luncheon, the governor signed into law Bill 2946, new state legislation which allows the Forest Preserve District to take minority- and women-owned business status into consideration when awarding contracts.
