The National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE) and Grubhub held a Small Business Roundtable in Chicago on April 10, 2025. Over 60 small business owners, policymakers, and community leaders attended to discuss entrepreneur challenges and growth strategies.
Chiling Tong, President & CEO of National ACE, highlighted the entrepreneurial impact of the AAPI community. “Recent estimates show that AAPIs comprise approximately 6.5% of the Chicago metropolitan area’s population—the fastest-growing among all racial and ethnic groups. By convening these conversations, we can help shape federal policies that better support AAPI businesses in Chicago and beyond.”
Grubhub has collaborated with National ACE since 2021, granting over $6.5 million to 520 restaurant owners. Dave Tovar, SVP of Communications and Government Relations at Grubhub, said, “Grubhub is proud to mark five years of partnership with National ACE, supporting small businesses—the backbone of our local communities.”
The event addressed key concerns like rising costs, capital access, supply chain issues, and talent retention. Johnny Wilbon of Bank of America advised participants, “Know your banker before you need the money.” Peer learning and storytelling were emphasized as valuable strategies for navigating challenges.
Entrepreneur Melvin Reyes of Mano Modern Cafe remarked, “It’s important to have community; if we’re able to lean on each other, we can go through anything.” Kevin Yu of 2d restaurant commented on the timing of the event: “In the age of uncertainty, this meeting gives us a chance to see light at the end of the tunnel.”
Grubhub announced the Established 2020 Award for Chicago restaurants that opened in 2020. Applications are open until April 18, 2025, with awards presented in June.
Notable attendees included Alderman Nicole Lee, Will Shih from Senator Tammy Duckworth’s office, Jake Kaplan from Representative Brad Schneider’s office, and Cherita Logan from Representative Danny K. Davis’s office.
The roundtable is part of National ACE’s efforts to support minority entrepreneurs with tailored resources and programs.
