Comptroller Mendoza Highlights Illinois Small Business Programs at Portrait Unveiling

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Comptroller Susana Mendoza attends portrait unveiling; highlights office’s assistance for small businesses

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza visited Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique in Springfield Tuesday, to accept a portrait she commissioned from store owner, Monica Zanetti.

The portrait features the Comptroller, her mother, and labor leader and women’s rights advocate Dolores Huerta.

“I have admired Monica’s work and stopped by Wild Rose about a year ago where we discussed doing a painting,” Comptroller Mendoza said. “I’m so excited to see the final product and the strength depicted in such beautiful colors. I thought Women’s History Month would be a good time for the unveiling.”

“When Susana approached me about this painting, I jumped at the opportunity because it would be a celebration of our Mexican American culture,” said Zanetti. “As a strong feminist advocate, the imagery and symbolism used to showcase three incredible women was incredibly fulfilling.

“In every brushstroke, I blended the warmth of my Mexican heritage with the strength of my American spirit, celebrating the resilience of women seen through my unique first generation Mexican American cultural perspective,” Zanetti continued.

While at Wild Rose, Comptroller Mendoza also discussed how her office can help small businesses.

“Small businesses in Illinois represent the hearts and souls of our residents, and I want to do all I can to support them,’ Comptroller Mendoza said. “Our SMART Business program helps small businesses register to bid on state contracts, creating new opportunities and increasing income.”

There are several advantages to doing business with the state. Business owners can count on a steady demand, create a track record of service to help win more clients, and grow revenue.

The SMART Business program has staff available to consult with business owners one-on-one throughout the process of becoming a registered small business vendor. The state “sets aside” millions of dollars’ worth of contracts exclusively for small businesses each year.

In addition, the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) offers certification for businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. The BEP certification is recognized by a variety of municipalities and organizations, and certification is free. Illinois Office of Comptroller (IOC) staff can also help with BEP certification.

Interested business owners can sign up here: Smart Business Illinois - The Illinois Office of Comptroller (illinoiscomptroller.gov).

There are currently 1.4 million small businesses in Illinois, employing nearly 44 percent of the state’s workforce. Still, opening and running a small business poses unique challenges.

“Navigating the journey of small business ownership involves juggling financial pressures, competing with larger corporations and adapting to ever changing market demands,” said Zanetti. “At Wild Rose Artisans Gallery & Boutique, I strive to create a joyful space where everyone feels a sense of belonging.”

Monica Zanetti was honored as part of Comptroller Mendoza’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in 2022.

• Video from the event will be posted here: www.illinois.gov/iisvideo
• Audio from the event will be posted here: www.illinois.gov/iisradio