Seek out municipal resources; hire locally; work with community leaders to avoid opposition--and other tips featured in a 'how to' guide for risk-taking business entreprenuers in Chicago.
"Neighborhoods struggling with reputations for crime and urban blight are attracting a new breed of risk-taking entrepreneurs. They are drawn by low overheads, underserved markets and the prospect of hitting a neighborhood right before it takes off....Other entrepreneurs may not be as lucky. The process of establishing a business in a changing neighborhood is risky....Banks can be equally leery of depressed neighborhoods and may be reluctant to lend to a business interested in locating there." Economic development programs in Chicago, including the green city initiative, tax increment financing districts, empowerment zones and industrial corridor programs, are suggested as resources for business entreprenuers seeking ways to reduce risk.
Thanks to Connie Chung
FULL STORY: Seeking high payback in low-income areas

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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont