By Townhall Chicago News Staff
The Chicago Bears and PNC Bank on Monday announced That’s Caring, a purpose-driven corporate gifting company based in Elk Grove Village, as the second winner of the 2026 Small Business All-Pros program.
That’s Caring is the second of four small businesses that will be selected for the program this season, according to the team’s Oct. 20 announcement. From Oct. 20 through Nov. 16, the Bears will spotlight the company across their digital, social and marketing channels, with additional exposure on gamedays at Soldier Field.
Now in its seventh year, Small Business All-Pros recognizes local entrepreneurs whose businesses help drive economic growth, create opportunity and strengthen neighborhoods across the Chicago area.
Each winning business receives a four-week marketing partnership with the Bears, including a featured profile on ChicagoBears.com, promotion across the team’s media and social channels and gameday recognition during two designated home games. Winners also receive a complimentary 12-month Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce membership that provides access to networking opportunities and business resources, according to the team’s website.
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities, creating jobs, building connections and serving as gathering places for families and neighbors,” Sarah Smith, vice president of fan development and brand marketing for the Chicago Bears, said when the program opened for applications in June. “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.”
PNC has served as the presenting partner of the program since 2024.
“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,” Scott Swanson, PNC regional president for Illinois, said. “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.”
The first winner of the 2026 program was Sophia’s Cleaning Service. Two more businesses will be selected throughout the remainder of the season.
Over the past six years, the program has featured businesses from across the Chicago area representing a range of industries and communities. During the 2025 season, the initiative recognized Kneads & Wants, a bakery in Skokie; Grace + Ivory, a bridal designer in Bucktown; Three Stars Vintage, a furniture shop in Avondale; and Stewarts’ Cheesecakes, a bakery in Bloomingdale.
Applications for the 2026 program have closed. The remaining two winners will be announced during the second half of the season.
