ChicagoFIRST is a Model for Other Cities

The development of regional public/private partnerships within the financial sector is the latest example of this leadership. ChicagoFIRST formed in 2003 as the first such regional partnership, building relationships among its competitor-members and between the members and government at all levels. The attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and the devastation caused by hurricanes along the Gulf Coast constitute a challenge to the private sector. The effects of natural and man-made disasters demonstrate the need for firms to not only have business continuity plans, but also to ensure that their plans are linked with those of their key business sector partners…