Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood has been recognized as a State-Designated Cultural District, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday. This significant designation showcases the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution to the city’s economic, arts and cultural landscape. This designation will be in place through 2034. The goal of the State-Designated Cultural Districts program is to encourage economic development; support the preservation and development of history and culturally significant structures, traditions, and languages; foster local cultural development and education; provide a focal point for celebrating communities’ unique cultural identities; and promote equitable growth and opportunity without generating displacement, the governor’s office said. As a State-Designated Cultural District, Little Village will have access to various resources and opportunities aimed at fostering the growth and development of its arts and cultural sectors.  It will also continue to encourage entrepreneurship and support community economic development with a prioritization on the preservation of existing businesses and retention of current residents. The Foundation of Little Village supports and encourages business growth through an established business ecosystem that offers culturally relevant and bilingual entrepreneurial programming, access to capital, a business incubator, and other critical resources that impact the economic wellness of Little Village. Learn more about the Foundation of Little Village or enroll in its entrepreneurial Juntos programming at flvchicago.org.

Photo Credit: Foundation of Little Village