Support Northwestern Business Owners

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The Northwestern Alumni-Owned Small Business Directory makes it easy for Wildcats to support nearly 700 alumni who own small businesses in the US and around the world. Search the directory—by alumni or business name, location, or self-selected identity—and you’ll find descriptions of companies and how you can patronize them. It’s just one of the many ways ’Cats support ’Cats around the world!

Are you a Northwestern alum who owns a small business but you’re not in the directory? Fill out this form for the opportunity to be included.

Directory last updated 4/25/2024

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does the NAA define a small business?

A small business is defined as an independently owned and operated company or non-profit that is limited in size and revenue depending on the industry.

Does the business have to be owned by a Northwestern alum to qualify?

Yes. While we’d like to support all small businesses, this resource is intended to provide Northwestern alumni the opportunity to support their fellow Wildcats. Alumni is defined as any individual who has completed at least one credit towards a degree-granting program at Northwestern. At this time, we are unable to list those who have completed a certificate through Northwestern.

What if a Northwestern alum has another position in a small business, but does not own it? Can the business still be included in the directory?

No. At this time, directory listings may only include alumni-owned businesses.

How are identity-based designations determined?

Identity-based designations are self-reported and the veracity has not been confirmed by the NAA

Are businesses required to provide a discount for Northwestern alumni?

No. This is simply a directory of alumni-owned small businesses. No discounts or promotions are required.

Why are submissions only added weekly?

Before the NAA posts a business, we will verify that it is owned by a Northwestern alum. In accordance with Northwestern University policy, we will verify that businesses in the directory are not in conflict with the University’s fundamental mission and values. The NAA reserves the right to exclude any business from this directory.

How will users know if business information is current?

We will confirm entries before posting and plan to review directory listings quarterly to ensure the list is current. We do ask that those who list a business provide us with updates as they are able.

Is the NAA providing financial support to businesses on this page?

No. This directory is simply a list of alumni-owned small businesses. The NAA is not providing financial assistance to specific businesses.

Are submissions edited?

We have lightly edited submissions for clarity and length. Everything else is in the alum’s own words.

Who can I contact with any other questions?

Please direct any other questions to Bobby Dunlap.

Disclaimer

Companies on this list have each been validated as a Northwestern alumni–owned business. Inclusion in this directory should not be considered an endorsement by Northwestern University or the Northwestern Alumni Association. Use of the Northwestern name and/or registered trademarks by businesses is generally prohibited. Also, please note that the NAA logo, the Northwestern logo, and other Northwestern registered trademarks may not be used by external companies without permission.