Make City

Where manufacturers grow, innovate, and thrive in one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic incubators.

Welcome to Make City

Make City is one of the nation’s oldest and largest manufacturing incubators, spanning 416,000 square feet across historic Near West Side buildings dating back to the 1890s.

Home to over 100 businesses across industries including apparel, beauty and personal care, textiles, and creative services, it provides flexible workspace, shared equipment, and essential business support designed to help companies grow and succeed. 

Our tenants benefit from coaching, workshops, networking opportunities, and a collaborative community where knowledge, innovation, and creativity thrive. 

It’s more than just a space to work, Make City is a vibrant ecosystem where entrepreneurs turn big ideas into real businesses while contributing to a legacy of manufacturing excellence in Chicago.

Make City By The Numbers...

4,360+ Mentorship Hours Delivered

Make City has delivered over 4,360 hours of mentorship, coaching, and one-on-one guidance to help tenants navigate business challenges.

379 Jobs Created

Make City tenants have created 379 jobs over five years, contributing to local economic growth and supporting Chicago’s manufacturing and creative industries.

100+ Current Active Tenants

With more than 100 active tenants across a range of industries, Make City is home to one of Chicago’s most diverse and dynamic business communities.

416,000+ Square Ft Facility

Flexible, industrial facilities, your ideas have room to thrive. From collaborative workspaces to production-ready areas, we provide everything you need to elevate your business and connect with a community of forward-thinking professionals.

300+ Workshops & Networking Events

Hosted since 2020, connecting business owners with industry experts and peers.

1,223 Businesses Supported

Between 2020 and 2024, Make City provided guidance, mentorship, and business support to 1,223 businesses.

Where Big Ideas Take Shape

Behind every business at Make City is a story of ambition, resilience, and growth. Hear directly from the entrepreneurs who’ve built their dreams within our walls — makers, creators, and innovators turning ideas into thriving enterprises. These stories capture the spirit of collaboration and community that make Make City more than just a workspace, it’s where Chicago’s next generation of businesses come to life.

What Makes Your Business Perfect for Make City

Wondering what makes you the perfect fit for Make City? The manufacturing incubator features versatile and customizable spaces that suit your startup, along with a thriving community that supports each other. 

Don’t take our word for it, find out what our Make City entrepreneurs think!

"The space within Make City has provided me with a place to manufacture my skin and hair care products. Because I have the space, I was able to obtain a contract to sell my products in Whole Foods and Walmart."

Chatto Skin and Hair Care Products

"Being part of the Make City community has been a huge asset to my business. As a growing company, the flexibility to move between spaces within the building has allowed me to scale thoughtfully without compromising operations. The front office staff and building maintenance team are consistently responsive and attentive, which makes day-to-day logistics smooth and stress-free. The amenities in the building—from shared spaces to practical conveniences—are well thought out and genuinely useful.

One of the unexpected joys of being here is the informal network that’s formed among tenants. I often run into neighbors and friends in the hallways, and it’s not uncommon for business advice or referrals to be exchanged on the spot. That kind of organic support is rare and incredibly valuable. I’ve recommended ICNC to multiple contacts in the apparel industry because it’s more than just a workspace—it’s a community that helps businesses grow."

Digit Pattern Services

"We would literally not be in business if it weren’t for ICNC and the services that ICNC offers. We would not have been able to afford a commercial space in the City of Chicago without the support of ICNC. Our business relies on us being a part of a community, and Make City has provided a space where we can connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and consumers."

Federal Moto

Comprehensive Support for Every Stage of Growth

We’re a partner in your growth. Our team provides hands-on support designed to help businesses thrive, from workforce development and recruitment to financial guidance and long-term business planning. 

Tenants have direct access to on-site experts at our Small Business Development Center, along with workshops, training reimbursements, and introductions to key government programs and services. 

Beyond the practical support, Make City fosters a connected community through networking and social events, helping entrepreneurs share knowledge, collaborate, and grow together as part of Chicago’s thriving business ecosystem.

Why Choose Make City

On-Site Assistance

At Make City, the thriving community supports each other. Plus, our on-site property manager and in-house maintenance staff are always on hand. 

Versatile & Customizable Workspaces

Tenants can make major improvements to their space, such as giving the space a lick of paint, adding an office or bathroom, and more. 

Freight-Ready Facilities

We have created facilities that suit freight, including 13 freight elevators and loading docks that provide shipping ease. 

Prime Location

Located in Chicago’s Near West Side, close to the near loop, CTA (Green line, Damen bus), and highways (I-290, I-55, and I-90/94).

Available Spaces At Make City

Whatever your business needs, production spaces, coworking areas, or collaborative workspaces, we have the flexible space to help you grow and succeed.
Available Immediately

Unit C-233

1,564 Sq. Ft.

  • ​Dock Access
  • Wood floors
  • High ceilings
  • 2 storage closets 
  • Office and meeting room
  • Kitchenette
  • No windows 
Available Immediately

Unit C-235a

1,604 Sq. Ft.

  • Dock Access
  • Kitchenette
  • Office space
  • Storage space
Available Immediately

Unit F-323

3,938 Sq. Ft.

  • Dock access
  • Full kitchen
  • 2 storage closets
  • Office and storage area
  • Double doors
Available Immediately

Unit C-229

1,705 Sq. Ft.

  • Dock access
  • Wooden floors
  • High ceilings
Available Immediately

Unit C-231

1,782 Sq. Ft.

  • ​Dock access
  • Two compartment sink
  • In-unit restroom
  • Tall ceilings
Available Immediately

Unit F-104c

2,000 Sq. Ft.

  • Retail-ready space
  • Large windows facing Fulton Street
  • Internal dock access
Available Immediately

Unit F-110

5,742 Sq. Ft.

  • First floor unit
  • Two entrances (one private)
  • Two bathrooms in unit
  • Hookups for additional sinks available

Start Your Manufacturing Journey

Are you looking to create a home for your business? Surround yourself with like-minded entrepreneurs. Look no further!

Partner with Make City

Become a partner today and support the future businesses of Chicago.
Big Space. Big Impact. Bigger Futures.
Where Chicago’s next generation of businesses grow and thrive.