Tarver Promotes FastTrack Certification Option for Chicago and Cook County Minority-Owned Businesses

CHICAGO – State Rep. Curtis J. Tarver II, D-Chicago, is highlighting an accelerated process for female-owned and minority-owned businesses to qualify for state contracts and assistance through the state’s Business Enterprise Program (BEP).

“The pandemic has created another obstacle for business owners already breaking the barriers of systemic oppressions such as racism or sexism,” said Tarver. “The state’s support of Chicago’s minority-owned businesses is crucial toward not only economic development for minority business owners, but another step in creating true economic equality for their communities and the generation of wealth.”

Tarver is encouraging businesses owned by minorities, women, or persons with disabilities to take advantage of the FastTrack Certification option which will allow businesses who are certified by the City of Chicago or Cook County, with a single affidavit, full certification in seven business days. Vendors seeking to apply for Fast Track BEP certification can visit www.cms.illinois.gov for more information.

“The FastTrack Certification process will allow for a deliberate approach toward diversity and the expansion of opportunities for our state’s minority-owned vendors,” said Tarver. “I highly recommend business owners to take advantage of this resource as it will increase opportunities for minority vendors to receive state contracts.”

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