WBC is a public-private partnership and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by funding from the City of Chicago, philanthropies, and the business community.
[1] The stated mission of the organization is "to drive inclusive economic growth and job creation, support business, and promote Chicago as a leading global city.
[10] In 2009 and 2010, Athas also led WBC's efforts, along with the City of Chicago, to support the relocation of United Airlines' operational headquarters into Willis Tower.
[14] He expanded the board of directors from 15 to 50 people, largely top business leaders for private and public companies in the Chicago area.
[23] In 2017, after allegations that he was abusing company resources and fostering a toxic workplace culture, Malehorn issued a formal apology to WBC staff.
[24] A few months later, he was removed as CEO and replaced by Andrea Zopp, former Deputy Mayor, Chief Neighborhood Officer, under Rahm Emanuel.
[33] In the 1970s and 1980s, the program added seven additional Sister Cities, and in 1990, Mayor Richard M. Daley officially established a volunteer board of directors for the organization.
[36][37] In 2011, the Inspector General of Chicago identified a conflict of interest that made it possible for WBC board members to utilize the organization as a means of gaining third-party verification for grants and subsidies.
[43] Lisa Schneider-Fabes, then-president of the District 39 school board in nearby Wilmette, Illinois, where she also resided, served as a transition advisor to Lori Lightfoot.