At Prequal, we believe in supporting women and celebrating their success. As a women-centered business ourselves, we know the impact that local, women-owned shops have on the community. This holiday season, let’s continue lifting each other up by choosing gifts from businesses that put women at the forefront. Here are 10 inspiring, women-owned businesses in Chicago that offer everything from handcrafted jewelry to artisanal goods. Join us in giving back to the women who make our city unique—and let’s keep building a community where women thrive.

1. Semicolon Bookstore:

A Black woman-owned bookstore in West Town, Semicolon combines art, literature, and community in a unique way. Dedicated to bridging the literacy gap in minoritized communities, Semicolon offers a curated selection of books, focusing especially on works by BIPOC authors. The bookstore’s mission extends beyond selling books—it uses a portion of its sales to fund community projects, ensuring access to literature while fostering a deeper connection with storytelling. By promoting literacy and creating a space for conversation, Semicolon has become a vital part of Chicago’s cultural landscape. 

2. Chicago French Press

Located in the South Loop, this Black woman-owned coffee shop offers a variety of fair-trade coffee blends, with part of each purchase supporting nonprofits. Founded by Kris, a trailblazer in the coffee industry, Chicago French Press stands out as one of the few women-owned coffee roasteries and retailers in the United States. The shop not only serves high-quality coffee but also uses its platform to give back to the community, making it a destination that offers both a delicious cup and a sense of purpose. 

3. Eb & Flow Yoga

Eb & Flow Yoga is a Black-owned studio in West Town, founded by a dynamic mother-daughter duo committed to promoting the physical and mental benefits of yoga. This inclusive space welcomes students of all ages and fitness levels, offering classes designed to meet a variety of needs, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Beyond yoga, Eb & Flow is deeply invested in community building and frequently supports local charities through events and partnerships, making a meaningful impact in Chicago neighborhoods. Their mission is to foster personal growth, connection, and well-being for everyone who walks through their doors.

4. BFF Bikes

This women-owned, full-service bike shop on Damen Avenue also hosts community cycling events and training. Founded by two passionate cyclists, Vanessa and Annie, who saw the need for a supportive and empowering space for women riders of all levels. Their mission goes beyond just selling bikes; they created BFF Bikes as a place where women could feel welcomed, encouraged, and inspired to join the cycling community that’s growing rapidly in Chicago and beyond. 

5. B Collective

Founded by two first-generation women of Latin and Turkish backgrounds, B Collective is a unique space designed to foster connection, inclusivity, and positive mental health. With backgrounds in floral design, architecture, and marketing, the founders combined their passions to create a haven where nature, empathy, and creativity collide. By incorporating flowers and plants, they aim to lift spirits and express emotions, providing a safe and welcoming environment that was once missing in their own lives. 

6. Bon Femmes

Located in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago, Bon Femmes is a shop and gallery celebrating art, home decor, beauty products, and more— all created by women. Founded with a mission to support women creators, Bon Femmes donates a portion of its sales to women-led charities that empower and uplift our community. 

7. Wolfbait & B-girls

Since opening in 2006, Wolfbait & B-girls has been both a showcase and a support hub for Chicago’s artisan community. This women-owned shop, founded by native designers Shirley Kienitz and Jenny Stadler, features unique items from over 300 local artisans, including clothing, accessories, art, and gifts. 

8. Volumes Bookcafe

Located in Wicker Park, Volumes Bookcafe is a cozy, women-owned bookstore and café run by sisters Rebecca and Kimberly. Both have careers deeply rooted in books and together, they have created a space that blends their love for literature with a welcoming café environment. Volumes offers a carefully curated selection of books, delicious baked goods, coffee, and regular community events that bring together book lovers of all ages. 

9. Art Effect

Art Effect, a women-owned shop in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, has been a vibrant part of the community since 1984. This modern general store offers a chic “high-low” shopping experience with a thoughtfully curated range of jewelry, clothing, and gifts. Owner Esther Fishman has crafted a store environment that’s as friendly and welcoming as it is diverse in offerings. 

10. Scratch Goods

This skincare and self-care brand offers products like oils, scrubs, and masks, along with a popular virtual mask bar. Scratch Goods makes it easy to gift a spa-like experience with their wellness products, perfect for holiday relaxation. 

These businesses are just a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse community of women-led enterprises shaping Chicago. By supporting these incredible shops and services, you’re discovering unique, high-quality products, empowering the women behind them, and contributing to the growth of local communities. This holiday season, make a meaningful impact by shopping small and celebrating creativity, resilience, and vision. Explore local gems through guides like Choose Chicago, Chicago Women-Owned Business Directory, or your neighborhood small business networks. Together, we can help women in business thrive.