Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a shift in the workforce. A lot of people had to figure out new ways to make money. When times get tough, people get an entrepreneurial spirit. According to the Census Bureau, more than 4.4 million new businesses were created in the U.S. during 2020 — the highest total on record. For reference, that’s a 24.3% increase from 2019 and 51.0% higher than the 2010-19 average. Half a million new businesses were started in January 2021, alone. Economists speculate a combination of accessible technologies, home confinement, and yes, spare time, may have been the catalyst. With the start of 2022, there’s still an upward trend in entrepreneurship.

Knowing how important getting support is for a new business, here’s two new businesses that can use it in the new year.

Tecalitlan Mexican Kitchen & Margarita Bar is located at 1538 North Clybourn Avenue in the NEWCITY shopping & entertainment complex. Tecalitlan is also known as TEC to Chicago foodies. TEC has remained a family-owned restaurant by the Garcia family for nearly five decades. It’s the go-to spot for fresh authentic Mexican-fare in Chicago. The restaurant recently relocated from Chicago Avenue in West Town to new location at NEWCITY in Lincoln Park. Although they’ve been around for awhile, relocating to a new area can be a challenge and hurt a business. Loyal customers have traveled near and far to dine at Tecalitlan and to take back burritos to their friends and families in France, Hawaii, Colorado, Puerto Rico, Texas, New York, Florida, Indiana, and Delaware. Some of their popular dishes include fajitas, chicken enchiladas, burritos, carne asada dinner, shrimp enchiladas, and some of the best Al Pastor Tacos this side of the border, among others. They’ve been voted TOP margaritas and burritos in Chicago.

Dreaming of a getaway? Let 321 Travelmake your travel arrangements for you. 321 Travel just had a successful launch, and has been offering first-class travel planning services and guidance. This new travel agency is black and women owned. The founder, Ciara Mason Garrison, is a military dependent who loves to travel and decided to build an agency to help others travel with a class on a budget. 321 Travel provides flexible payment options and competitive rates, making your travel experience stress-free. With their established industry connections, they can offer unique travel promotions that you just can’t find anywhere else. You can also get personalized rates based on the desired experience. If you’re looking for Family Travel, International Travel, or Itinerary Planning, 321 Travel is who you need to connect with. You can find them on Facebook, by typing in 321 TRVL.

Make sure this year you take the time to support these local businesses or others in your area, they need you.