The Chicago Bears on Tuesday announced the return of Small Business All-Pros presented by PNC, a signature community initiative that recognizes local entrepreneurs whose businesses help drive economic growth, create opportunity and strengthen neighborhoods across Chicagoland.

Applications are open through 11:59 p.m. CT, Wednesday, July 29. Four small businesses will be selected to join the 2026 Small Business All-Pros cohort and receive marketing support and promotional opportunities throughout the 2026 NFL season.

Now in its seventh year, Small Business All-Pros presented by PNC underscores the ongoing support by both organizations for Chicagoland entrepreneurs and small business growth.

Each Small Business All-Pro will receive a four-week marketing partnership with the Chicago Bears, including a featured profile on ChicagoBears.com, promotion across Bears-owned platforms, including marketing, media, social channels and gameday recognition during two designated home games. Winners will also receive a complimentary 12-month Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce membership, providing access to networking opportunities, business resources and regional advocacy. Together, these benefits are designed to expand each business's brand visibility, customer reach, business growth and community impact.

"Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities, creating jobs, building connections and serving as gathering places for families and neighbors," said Sarah Smith, Vice President of Fan Development and Brand Marketing for the Chicago Bears. "Through Small Business All-Pros, we're proud to partner with PNC Bank and celebrate the entrepreneurs who help make Chicago unique and provide them with a platform to share their stories with Bears fans. We look forward to recognizing another outstanding class of local business owners this season."

Since becoming the presenting partner of Small Business All-Pros in 2024, PNC Bank has helped expand the program's reach and impact for participating businesses.

"As the proud presenting sponsor of Small Business All-Pros, PNC is focused on supporting entrepreneurs and helping them build the momentum needed to grow and succeed," said Scott Swanson, PNC Regional President for Illinois. "We're especially excited to collaborate with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce to expand access to networks and resources that help small businesses scale and drive economic growth across the region."

Over the past six years, the program has featured businesses from across Chicagoland, representing a wide range of industries and communities.

During the 2025 season, the program recognized Kneads & Wants (a woman-owned bakery in Skokie known for its handcrafted baked goods and community-focused approach), Grace + Ivory (a woman-owned bridal designer in Bucktown specializing in custom and affordable wedding attire), Three Stars Vintage (a family-owned vintage furniture and home décor shop in Avondale) and Stewarts' Cheesecakes (a family-owned bakery in Bloomingdale known for its specialty cheesecakes and desserts), each selected for their entrepreneurial spirit, customer service and community impact.

Small businesses are encouraged to apply. Applications will be evaluated based on business impact, community involvement and overall story.

For more information and application instructions, visit ChicagoBears.com/SmallBusinessAllPros.