How To Start and Grow Your Small Business in Lemont Downtown
Lemont Downtown has become a thriving hub for entrepreneurs looking to bring their ideas to life. Over the past decade, the Village of Lemont has cultivated an entrepreneurship pipeline that provides small business owners with opportunities to test, launch, and grow their ventures in a supportive community.
Every year, we talk to budding entrepreneurs who are interested in starting a business or tapping into this vibrant community and growing their business through the Chicago suburbs. If you’re putting together your idea or opening a second location, we thought it’d be helpful to put together a quick guide on how to get started and the resources available in Lemont.
Step 1: Get Inspiration from the Greats
The thing that makes Lemont Downtown different - we have a vibrant community of local entrepreneurs who are ready to support you. We recently profiled a few of our women-owned business founders: Sommer from Mabel’s Market, Amanda from Aster Gardens, Tess from Folklore Coffee, and Mary Beth from Martellen’s Bridal. We love their insight on how to acquire, build, and finance your business and the obstacles they’ve faced along the way.
If you’ve listened to the Lemont Unlocked podcast, you’ve also been able to hear from the folks at Corner Stone Tavern, Digs on Canal, Barrel & Vine, Petersen’s Main Inn, and other historic places around town. Consider walking in to see how they deliver amazing service to customers and continue to adapt to changes.
We’re friendly! Walk on in, introduce yourself, and make yourself at home.
Creek Side Market at the 2023 Lemont Farmers Market
Step 2: Develop Your Business Idea
It’s important to define your concept and think things through.
Kristian Gist, Brand Strategist for All Together and Small Business Expert, shares, “A lot of people believe that you can have an idea, quickly develop a product, post to social media, and then ‘Boom! You’re in business.’ In reality, every successful small business has years of sleepless nights toward success. You have to think through and be intentional about how you develop your product or service, how to finance the project, test your idea, and build your community. It takes time.”
Lemont Downtown is a hub where many shared interests come together. Locals love quality dining, historic bars, and taverns, tapping into the regional, architectural, and cultural history, recreation and hiking, family-focused activities, shopping, wellness and spas, art, etc. If you’re set on Lemont for your business location, you’re likely to find your people here.
Step 3: Test Your Idea
One of the unique advantages of starting a business in Lemont is the ability to test your concept in a low-risk environment. Over the years, Market on Canal hosted by Mabel’s Market, and the Lemont Farmers Market hosted by Aster Gardens and have served as incubators for aspiring entrepreneurs.
“We’ve been able to see businesses like Raising Sons start as a cottage food operation, and then make the leap to the Lemont Farmers Market and really take off. We love that,” shares Jason Berry, Economic Development Director for the Village of Lemont.
Attending in-person events allows you to showcase your products, gather customer feedback, and build brand awareness before committing to a permanent location.
The award-winning team at Matt’s Barbecue, winners of 2025 Munch Madness Challenge and the best brisket in town.
Step 3: Find the Right Space
Lemont Downtown offers a variety of historic spaces perfect for new businesses. The charming backdrop makes it a favorite for visitors from Chicago and throughout the Midwest. The Village of Lemont has made it easier for small business owners to revitalize these spaces, providing opportunities for retail, dining, and service-based ventures. Working with local real estate professionals and the Village’s Economic Development Team can help you secure a space that fits your business needs and budget and understand the permits you’ll need to build it out to suit your needs.
Step 4: Connect with the Business Community
One of the greatest assets of starting a business in Lemont is the supportive network of fellow entrepreneurs and business organizations.
Molly Hebda Photography’s Content Club offers monthly social events and brand-focused content creation sessions that bring local business owners together to collaborate, learn, and create. These gatherings help entrepreneurs build connections and stay visible while growing their businesses.
Step 5: Utilize Village of Lemont Resources
The Village of Lemont is dedicated to supporting new businesses. They offer guidance on permits, zoning, funding opportunities, and marketing strategies to help you navigate the startup process. Taking advantage of these resources can ensure a smooth and successful launch.
Start with Lemont’s New Business Information packet, a step-by-step guide to your grand opening! Applying for permits and licenses is made easy with the Village’s online permit portal. Current and potential business owners in Lemont can also utilize the many resources of the Entrepreneur & Business Center at Joliet Junior College. Contact one of their business advisors today!
Step 6: Market and Grow Your Business
Once you’ve established your business, focus on creating a strong marketing strategy. To attract customers, leverage email marketing, social media, local events hosted by the Village of Lemont and Lemont Downtown, and collaborations with other businesses. Hosting events, participating in community festivals, and staying active in Lemont’s entrepreneurial ecosystem can help you grow and sustain your business.
Starting a business in Lemont Downtown is an exciting opportunity to be part of a thriving and supportive community. With the entrepreneurship pipeline in place, new business owners have access to historic spaces, market-testing opportunities, and a network of support that fosters success. By taking advantage of these resources, you can turn your business idea into a thriving reality in the heart of Lemont.
What new business would you like to bring to Lemont Downtown?
Looking to start a side business? Bring your questions to this informative session at the Lemont Public Library with Jason Berry from the Village of Lemont and learn what it takes to establish your side business in Lemont.
Monday, August 4 from 7-8 PM | Register here
Topics in the presentation will include:
What qualifies as a business under Village code — including common side hustles
Home-based business do’s and don’ts (zoning, signage, parking, etc.)
Licenses and permits required — and how to apply using Lemont’s online portal
Food-based business considerations, including health regulations
