The American Balkan Trade Center (ABTC) was among the guests at this year’s prestigious annual luncheon organized by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, bringing together some of the state’s leading companies, business executives, institutional representatives, and policy leaders.
It was an event celebrating success, growth, and achievement—an opportunity for ABTC to share its vision and mission, while also hearing and highlighting inspiring stories of successful businesses and leaders.
The event brought together accomplished professionals and organizations, celebrated those who have made significant contributions, and created valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and new connections.
For ABTC, it was a meaningful opportunity to be part of a distinguished gathering of leaders who are shaping the future of business and building stronger connections across Illinois and beyond.
For the first time, the event also featured Tikveš Winery, the renowned Macedonian company, which joined American businesses and exhibitors in presenting its products to guests and business leaders from across Illinois.
“Today, we are here to present what we have to offer and to showcase the wines produced by Tikveš Winery. I promise you, we will not disappoint you. On the contrary, we will make you proud of the beautiful and irresistible wines of Macedonia.”- said Svetozar Janevski, the owner of Tikveš Winery
The event began at 10:30 a.m. with a networking and exhibition session. Guests had the opportunity to meet with exhibitors and learn more about their products and services. Among the exhibitors was Tikveš Winery, which presented a selection of its wines to attendees.
The official program began at 11:30 a.m., when event host Lourdes Duarte of WGN opened the luncheon.
The event opened with an honor guard ceremony and the national anthem, performed by a Chicago Police Department vocalist, setting a formal and distinguished tone for the gathering.
Among the speakers was Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, who welcomed the attendees and spoke about the state’s economic future and business environment.
“I am glad to once again be part of the official luncheon of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. This means a lot for all of us. It means a better future, a better investment climate in this state, and better conditions for businesses to operate,” Pritzker said. “I want Illinois to be first in everything—to have the best schools, the best companies, and the best training centers.”
Pritzker also reflected on his years in office and his vision for Illinois.
“I have been governor of Illinois for eight years now, and my idea and vision have always been to protect our citizens, provide them with better conditions for life, and stand together through both difficult and good times,” he said.
The luncheon also brought together prominent figures from Illinois’ business community. Tony Reinhart, Chairman of the Illinois Chamber Board of Directors, welcomed the attendees and officially opened the event.
“It is a pleasure to open this event once again and to warmly welcome everyone. It is a great achievement to see so many successful people and businesses gathered together in one place,” Reinhart said.
Jimmy Clayton, President and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, who leads the organization and its team, also addressed the audience.
“To see a full room and all of our sponsors and friends gathered together in one place is a great honor for me. We worked tirelessly to organize this event, and I am very pleased to see everything come together today just as we had envisioned,” Clayton said, adding with a smile, “It’s time for the awards.”
Several awards were presented during the luncheon, including the Maisch Legacy of Leadership Award, the Reinhart Champion of Free Enterprise Award, and the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Awards.
The program also featured a panel discussion with Meena Beyers of Nicor Gas, Kevin Donahue of Canadian National, Helen Fitzpatrick of AbbVie, and Michael Telesky of UnitedHealthcare.
The program concluded with remarks from Ken Wegner, President and Owner of The Jet Sert Company, who spoke about his company’s long history in Illinois.
“The history of my company dates back to 1926, when my grandparents founded the company here in Illinois. We have been through a lot. We have experienced both successes and setbacks, and here we are today, continuing to build a successful business that has been passed down through generations,” Wegner said.
The luncheon concluded with closing remarks from Jimmy Clayton, who spoke to the First Balkan Media team about ABTC’s participation in the event.
“It is an honor and a pleasure to have the American Balkan Trade Center as our partner this year. I would also like to thank First Balkan Media for being here and for helping inform the public about this annual luncheon. We look forward to seeing you again in 2027, with an even larger gathering. Preparations begin tomorrow,” Clayton said.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance was Marko Nikolić, Consul of the Republic of Serbia in Chicago, who was also invited to the luncheon. Speaking to First Balkan Media, Consul Nikolić shared his impressions of the event and its importance for the business and diplomatic community.
“I am pleased to be here today, and it is a particular honor for me to see my fellow countrymen among those attending an event like this. It shows that our people are succeeding in America, building their own businesses, pursuing their vision, and finding the right path toward success,” Consul Nikolić said
The annual luncheon provided an opportunity for business and policy leaders from across Illinois to come together, network, exchange ideas, and build new relationships.
For the American Balkan Trade Center, participation in an event of this scale represents another opportunity to strengthen connections between the Balkan-American business community and the broader Illinois business and institutional community.
The First Balkan Media team was also present at the event, covering the gathering and speaking with distinguished guests, business leaders, and representatives of the participating organizations.
