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Chicago Bears Honor Grace + Ivory as 2025 Small Business All-Pros Winner
The Chicago Bears have announced Grace + Ivory as the second winner of the 2025 Small Business All-Pros Award, recognizing their innovative branding efforts.
Chicago, Illinois — The Chicago Bears have named Grace + Ivory as the second winner of their 2025 Small Business All-Pros Award, presented in partnership with PNC. This honor celebrates small businesses making significant contributions to their communities through innovative branding and entrepreneurial spirit.
Grace + Ivory, a boutique specializing in handcrafted home goods, stood out among numerous applicants for their unique approach to leveraging social media in branding, particularly in a post-pandemic market. The business, founded in 2020, has rapidly gained traction, utilizing platforms like Instagram and TikTok to connect with customers and showcase their products. Their success underscores the vital role of social media in today’s small business landscape.
Located in the heart of Chicago, Grace + Ivory has cultivated a loyal customer base by emphasizing authenticity and community engagement. The brand’s founder, Sarah Thomas, emphasized the importance of storytelling in branding. “Every product we sell has a story behind it,” she stated in a recent interview. “Our customers are not just buying a product; they are investing in a narrative.” This narrative-driven approach has resonated well, particularly among younger consumers who prioritize brand values over mere transactions.
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Read More →Their success underscores the vital role of social media in today’s small business landscape.
The Small Business All-Pros Award, initiated by the Bears in 2025, aims to spotlight local businesses that excel in marketing and community building. Each winner receives a cash prize, mentorship opportunities, and promotional support from the Bears and PNC. The program aligns with a growing trend where professional sports organizations engage with local economies, enhancing their community presence.
PNC’s commitment to supporting small businesses is reflected in their sponsorship of the award. The bank has launched various initiatives aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, particularly in underserved communities. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said Michael McGarry, PNC’s regional president. “We are proud to partner with the Chicago Bears to recognize those who are making a difference.”
Grace + Ivory’s innovative marketing strategies include interactive social media campaigns that encourage customer participation. They have successfully organized virtual workshops and live Q&A sessions, which not only promote their products but also foster a sense of community among their followers. This approach has proven effective in building brand loyalty and driving sales.
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Read More →Looking ahead, the landscape for small businesses continues to evolve rapidly, particularly in urban areas like Chicago. As consumer preferences shift more towards online shopping and experiential marketing, the ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial for small enterprises. Grace + Ivory exemplifies how harnessing technology and social media can propel a brand to new heights.
As the Bears continue to recognize local talents, the impact of their Small Business All-Pros Award will likely inspire other companies to invest in creative branding strategies. For aspiring entrepreneurs, the message is clear: embrace innovation, tell your story, and connect authentically with your audience.
