Resource Guide for Studios and Gyms: Chicago Edition

Whether you are exploring how to start a business in Chicago, or are a studio that is up and running, doing business with companies you trust saves you time and headaches. This year, we are going to compile business resources for dance and fitness studios and gyms. We’ll share our favorite service providers based on experience. Where we don’t have experience to give you a few options, we will ask colleagues for recommendations, and scour online reviews to compile lists that save you the hassle of doing so. Use this guide to help you find resources for important business needs.

We decided to go back to our roots, and start with Chicago:

Commercial cleaning companies

Depending on your size, you may find it best to relieve your staff of the burden of cleaning. Commercial cleaning companies are experts in such services and will provide high quality results. Providing a clean gym or studio is not only important for aesthetics, but is vital for health. Numerous illnesses can quickly spread in environments where bodily fluids linger on equipment or in locker rooms. Many now offer eco-friendly cleaning supplies, which can be important for yoga and fitness facilities.

Event planning

Whether you need help with an open house, grand opening, recital or other special event, it is helpful to have an expert assist with organization and plans.

Venue for performances

Your space may be great for your business but not for special events such as recitals, fundraisers, awards banquets, or other presentations. When you need a space other than your own, there are many types and sizes to pick from across the city. These are just some of them.

Websites, public relations and marketing

Having expertise to create awareness among consumers about your gym or studio is a big part of knowing how to start a business in Chicago’s landscape. Your brand needs to get out there. Today, brick and mortar businesses benefit greatly from having websites. Marketing and public relations firms that specialize in small businesses are also valuable to have on your team. We also recommend this guide to business networking in Chicago.

New Sky Strategies specializes in digital and local-business marketing strategy, websites, and search engine optimization.
Snowball PR specializes in public relations.
Black Rhino Marketing Group is a great source for developing your brand message and executing your brand visually (e.g., logo).

Business attorney

Attorneys are essential for small businesses. A good one will be a vital asset for almost every aspect of your business, from licensing and real estate issues to lawsuits and liability. Always do your homework before hiring an attorney. Many of them are specialized and you want to be sure you have the right fit for your business needs.

Accountants

The reason to hire an accountant for your small business are wide ranging and include, setting up and reviewing accounts and preparing federal, state and local tax returns.

Local publications

Putting advertisements in local publications is always helpful for getting the word out about your business. Scoring free news coverage is very beneficial because it does not take away from your advertising budget. To try and make this happen, create press releases and alert local publications about business openings, open house, performances and other events.

Insurance

Whenever the general public is on your property, you must assume something could happen. Therefore, having insurance to cover those possible incidents is essential. Dance Studio Insurance offers gymnastics, yoga, fitness, and dance insurance for professionals instructing or running a studio or gym. Because they offer services online, venues from coast to coast can obtain coverage whether in a major city, suburb or small town.