Northwestern Alumni Directory: Supporting Alumni-Owned Small Businesses

Colorful cartoon storefronts representing small businesses

Alumni Supporting Alumni: A Directory of Opportunities

Since its inception in 2020, the Northwestern Alumni-Owned Small Business Directory has emerged as a vital lifeline for alumni entrepreneurs, nearly doubling its listings to 800. Born out of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, the directory aims to foster community support among graduates, allowing Northwestern alumni to find and back one another’s businesses.

Celebrating Diversity: A Global Network

The directory not only showcases businesses across the U.S., particularly in the Chicagoland area, but also includes 39 businesses spanning 23 countries, from Hong Kong to Germany. Collaborating with alumni creates a rich tapestry of diverse careers and cultures, highlighting the global influence of Northwestern graduates.

A Marketplace of Unique Products and Services

Each business directory entry features a “how to support” section, enabling users to engage easily with alumni-owned enterprises. Categories such as women-owned and Black-owned businesses provide users with the power to make informed choices while supporting underrepresented groups within the alumni network. This structure amplifies the impact of collective alumni support.

Connecting Alumni in Meaningful Ways

More than just a listing service, the directory serves as a platform for fostering connections. Notable businesses, like Beermiscuous, have hosted events ranging from virtual beer tastings to game watch parties, creating spaces where new graduates can mingle with alumni. This sense of community acts as a bridge between past and present experiences, bolstering connections across generations of Wildcats.

The Future of the Directory: Growth and Recognition

As the directory expands, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with businesses thriving under this supportive framework. Bobby Dunlap, the Director of Alumni Engagement, emphasizes its ongoing relevance: “It’s a community-building tool, and we hope to continue to grow that in the future.” The path forward is clear: by promoting alumni businesses, the Northwestern community becomes stronger, proving that support transcends the conventional classroom.

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