Laying a policy foundation to expand inclusive employment
Chicago is known as the City of Broad Shoulders — a place where you stand on the shoulders of those who came before you, boosting you up so you can reach new heights. This spirit is part of what makes this state so committed to an inclusive economy, and what makes Illinoisans so passionate about the power of employment social enterprise.
Now, we’re focused on passing state legislation that would not only codify what an ESE is but also center ESEs as critical community and commercial assets. In doing this, we’re aiming to unlock preferred vendor opportunities and partnerships, so that ESEs and inclusive employers can scale and sustain their impact.
Policy Progress
We’re proud to have gained strong traction in our policy work, with a bill passed out of the House; momentum building in the Senate; and relationships established with legislative champions.House Bill
HB3751: A bipartisan proposal to codify ESEs in state law
Introduced in IL House of Representatives: February 7, 2025
Passed House on April 9, 2025
Status: Awaiting policy committee assignment
Supporters: 27
House Sponsors
Senate Sponsors
Senate Bill
SB2295: A bipartisan proposal to codify ESEs in state law
Introduced in IL Senate: February 7, 2025
Passed Senate on April 15, 2026
Status: Headed to the House
Supporters: 41
Senate Sponsors
Active IL Programs
IL RESET
Illinois Resourcing Employment Social Enterprises Together (IL RESET) is a coalition advocating for capital, resources, and policy change to support the over 33 employment social enterprises (ESEs) in Illinois.
2026 Community Retreat
Our Community Retreat is the largest gathering of employment-focused social enterprises in the United States. In June 2026, we will convene leaders from employment-focused social enterprises, along with government, philanthropic, and workforce partners from across the country, in Chicago.
Core Partners
Leading Inclusive Employers in Illinois
IL RESET Members
Aspiritech
Autonomy Works
Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition
Chicago CRED
Chicago Jobs Council
Chicago Women in Trades
Chicagoland Workforce Funder Alliance
Curt’s Café
Defy Ventures Illinois
Genesys Works
Growing Home Inc.
HHPLift
Inspiration Corporation/Inspiration Kitchens
LiftUp Enterprise
North Lawndale Employment Network
Per Scholas
Redefine Alliance
Responsible Business Initiative for Justice Revolution Institute
scaleIT
The Chicago Community Trust
YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Laura ZumdahlPresident & CEO, New Moms
