Business Growth

In just one year, Xchange has become a dynamic hub for talent development, commercial growth and collaboration. We welcomed SDI Presence as our anchor tenant, alongside United Way’s 211 Contact Center. Both are bringing jobs and resources to the Grand Crossing community. We’re also proud to see Xchange apprentices gain hands-on experience with major clients like WEC Energy Group, Northern Trust, and Oak Street Health. Additionally, several Black-owned catering and food/beverage entrepreneurs have partnered with Xchange, introducing new culinary offerings, including the debut of Procaffeinated Coffee House, a pop-up serving specialty coffee and fresh baked goods made by Gary Comer Culinary Apprentices.

Talent Development

Xchange is cultivating a pipeline of talent ready to lead in tomorrow’s innovation economy. This year, Catalyte launched five training cohorts in Grand Crossing, helping 33 individuals complete Network Administration and Business Analyst training. All Catalyte graduates have transitioned into careers with SDI. In addition, partnerships with City Colleges of Chicago, Cara Collective, Accelerate U at National Louis University, and UtmostU, are expanding Xchange’s training capabilities to prepare the next generation of IT professionals and apprentices, ensuring a pathway for long-term success.

Building Renovation

After completing the major renovation of a 28,000-square-foot former warehouse, Xchange Chicago now stands as a beacon of possibility. The primary investment and building construction was completed in November and Xchange handed over the keys to our lead tenants who are scheduled to begin their office suite buildouts, further expanding their commitment and presence as employers on Chicago’s South Side. The tenants have initial plans for 125 employees to be housed in the Xchange Grand Crossing location. The buildout of a commercial kitchen, community convening space and cafe will commence in early 2025, further activating this space as a community cornerstone.