CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — After a holiday season dominated by online shopping, Illinois tourism officials have put the spotlight on small businesses across the state, ready to welcome back winter shoppers.
The Illinois Office of Tourism has added 28 new small businesses statewide to its Illinois Made program.
"It's a program that spotlights the people, products and experiences unique to Illinois inspiring travelers to explore off the beaten path destinations around the state," Karla Flannery, deputy director at the Illinois Office of Tourism, told WBBM Newsradio.
The additions include Hungry Monkey Bakery in Lake Forest, Riley's Vegan Sweets and Eats in Peoria, and Bright Endeavors, a Chicago candle shop.
"These candles are made by young moms. So these are people that are totally training for a job while making these candles which is just a wonderful way of buying something that you actually need that is gonna make you feel good, but it's also helping a lot of people move forward in life," Flannery said.
Visit EnjoyIllinois.com to learn more.
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